The 2018 Ford Transit-150 equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V-6 engine is a capable commercial and passenger vehicle designed for heavy loads and long hauls. However, the high-output turbocharged engine places significant stress on the lubrication system, particularly under towing or stop-and-go driving conditions. Selecting the right lubricants is critical to maintaining engine health, maximizing fuel economy, and ensuring the longevity of critical components like the turbocharger and transmission.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The ultimate choice for severe service, offering up to 25,000 miles of protection and superior resistance to horsepower loss and wear in high-temperature turbocharged engines.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides extended protection up to 20,000 miles with enhanced cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother and longer.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective synthetic option that outperforms conventional oils and offers protection comparable to original equipment requirements.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated specifically for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents to reduce sludge and protect against leaks.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Engineered with 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns to trap small contaminants and reduce engine wear, featuring greater capacity than competing filters.
- WIX XP Oil Filter – A premium aftermarket option featuring improved media that outperforms standard OEM-branded filters for superior engine protection.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mix formulation that provides up to 150,000 miles of corrosion protection for all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated, non-ethylene glycol option for those seeking an environmentally friendly coolant with excellent corrosion protection and long service intervals.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand heavy towing and elevated temperatures while maintaining fluidity in sub-zero conditions for the 6-speed transmission.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A high-performance synthetic fluid that protects against wear and ensures smooth operation in automatic transmissions.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced protection against wear, thermal runaway, and rust for both standard and limited-slip differentials.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS responsiveness and maintains stable viscosity across a wide temperature range for superior braking safety.
Maintaining the 2018 Ford Transit-150’s 3.5L EcoBoost engine requires more than just following the standard service schedule. This engine relies on a precise oil viscosity to protect the turbocharger bearings and manage heat effectively. Using an inferior lubricant can lead to sludge buildup, reduced oil pressure, and premature turbo failure. By switching to a full synthetic oil like the AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30, you gain up to 25,000 miles of protection, which is particularly beneficial for fleet owners or drivers who operate the Transit under severe conditions. The oil change kit for this vehicle requires 5.9 quarts of fluid with a filter change, a capacity that can be easily managed with synthetic options designed for extended drain intervals.
The transmission also plays a pivotal role in the vehicle’s overall performance and durability. The 6-speed automatic transmission (6R80) in this model is susceptible to heat buildup during heavy loads or towing. Using a synthetic automatic transmission fluid like the AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient ensures the fluid remains stable under stress, reducing the risk of sludge and wear. This fluid is engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures, keeping the transmission operating smoothly. For those looking for a cost-effective alternative that still offers premium protection, the AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is an excellent choice. It protects against wear and meets the stringent requirements for fuel efficiency and smooth shifting.
Beyond the engine and transmission, the cooling system is vital for the longevity of the Ford Transit-150. The cooling capacity for this vehicle varies based on the specific heater assembly, but generally requires a substantial amount of fluid. AMSOIL offers two primary Antifreeze & Coolant options: the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant, which comes pre-mixed and is ideal for most applications, and the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant, which is concentrated and requires mixing with distilled water. Both options provide superior corrosion protection compared to conventional coolants and can extend service intervals significantly, reducing the frequency of maintenance and the risk of overheating in extreme weather.
The drivetrain components, including the rear differential, also benefit from premium lubrication. The Transit-150’s rear differential requires a 75W-85 synthetic gear lube. This viscosity is crucial for protecting the hypoid gears from wear and preventing thermal runaway, a common issue in heavy-duty applications. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube contains friction modifiers that are especially beneficial for limited-slip differentials, ensuring smooth operation and preventing chattering. Whether the vehicle has a standard or limited-slip rear axle, this gear lube provides the necessary lubrication to extend the life of the differential components.
Finally, the braking system should not be overlooked. The Ford Transit-150 utilizes high-performance brake systems that demand a fluid capable of withstanding high temperatures without boiling. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is formulated to provide excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness. It maintains a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring that brake pedal feel remains consistent even under heavy braking. This synthetic fluid also resists moisture absorption better than conventional fluids, reducing the risk of corrosion within the brake lines and calipers.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Ford Transit-150 represents a pivotal moment in the commercial van segment, bringing European engineering and design sensibilities to the North American market. Based on the global Ford Transit platform, this vehicle was designed from the ground up to be more aerodynamic and fuel-efficient than its predecessors, which relied on older designs derived from vans produced in the 1970s. The Transit-150 is available in various configurations, including cargo vans, passenger wagons, and cutaway chassis, making it a versatile workhorse for businesses and fleet operators alike.
Powering the vehicle in question is the 3.5L EcoBoost V-6 engine, a direct-injection turbocharged powerplant that delivers robust torque and horsepower. This engine is designed to handle significant payloads and towing duties, which is essential for a commercial vehicle expected to carry heavy loads over long distances. The EcoBoost technology, which combines turbocharging with direct injection, allows for a smaller displacement engine to produce power comparable to larger naturally aspirated V-8s, resulting in improved fuel economy and reduced operating costs for fleet managers.
Owners of the 2018 Transit-150 often praise its modern amenities and comfortable ride quality, which is a notable improvement over older vans. The interior is spacious and designed with functionality in mind, featuring a large windshield for improved visibility and a driver-focused cockpit. The vehicle’s platform offers a lower loading height compared to some competitors, making it easier to load and unload goods. Additionally, the Transit-150’s reputation for durability and reliability has helped it establish a strong foothold in the commercial sector, with many users citing its ability to withstand the demands of daily professional use.
Despite its robust design, the 2018 Transit-150 is not without its potential issues. One common concern among owners is the tendency for the turbocharger to accumulate carbon deposits over time, especially in vehicles that spend a lot of time idling or operating at low speeds. Regular use of high-quality synthetic motor oils like the AMSOIL Signature Series can help mitigate this issue by keeping the turbocharger bearings lubricated and clean, reducing the risk of sludge buildup that can lead to bearing failure. Another area of concern is the cooling system, as the compact design of the engine bay can sometimes lead to heat soak in extreme conditions. Maintaining a fresh supply of high-quality AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant is crucial to preventing overheating and ensuring the engine operates within safe temperature limits.
Transmission issues can also arise, particularly if the vehicle is frequently used for heavy towing or hauling in stop-and-go traffic. The fluid in the transmission can break down faster under these severe conditions, leading to rough shifting and potential internal wear. Switching to a synthetic AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid can provide a protective layer that resists breakdown and maintains viscosity, helping to extend the life of the transmission components. Additionally, the rear differential can be prone to noise and wear if the gear lube is not changed regularly or if the wrong viscosity is used. Using a AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 specifically formulated for high-performance differentials can help eliminate noise and protect the gears from premature wear.
Brake fade is another potential issue for vehicles that are heavily loaded or driven in mountainous regions. The standard brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, lowering the boiling point and leading to a spongy brake pedal or reduced stopping power. Regularly flushing the brake system and replacing the fluid with a high-quality synthetic brake fluid like the AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid can help maintain consistent braking performance and prevent corrosion in the brake lines and calipers. By addressing these common issues with the right lubricants, owners can ensure their 2018 Ford Transit-150 remains a reliable and efficient vehicle for years to come.