Maintaining your 2016 Ford Transit-350 requires precision when it comes to selecting the right lubricants. This vehicle, powered by the robust 3.7L V6 engine (Engine Code [M] 99M B Flex), faces significant demands ranging from highway cruising to heavy hauling. Using the correct viscosity and high-performance synthetic fluids ensures optimal engine protection, extended service intervals, and peak fuel efficiency. Whether you are towing a full load or navigating city streets, the right fluids help manage heat, reduce friction, and prevent wear in critical systems.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides maximum protection against horsepower loss and wear for up to 25,000 miles, ideal for severe service and extreme temperatures.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers superior cleaning power to keep the engine running smoothly for 20,000 miles between changes.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective, 100% synthetic option that fights sludge and deposits, meeting OEM mileage standards.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for engines with over 75,000 miles, featuring enhanced additives to reduce sludge and consumption.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers 99% filtering efficiency at 20 microns with greater capacity for contaminants to reduce engine wear.
- WIX XP Oil Filter – Premium media offering significant improvements over standard original equipment manufacturer-branded filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique OAT formulation that provides protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, compatible with all cooling system metals.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that meets or exceeds heavy-duty standards for corrosion and erosion protection.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Protects against wear and meets the needs of the 6R80 transmission system.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced synthetic protection against wear and thermal runaway for rear differentials, including limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – Restores horsepower and GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, improving fuel economy and reducing the need for higher-octane fuel.
Engine Oil and Filter Specifications
The heart of your 2016 Ford Transit-350 is the 3.7L V6 engine, which requires a specific viscosity to operate correctly under all conditions. For this engine, the recommended oil grade is SAE 5W-20. The total oil capacity is 6.0 quarts, including the filter replacement. After refilling, it is critical to check the oil level to ensure the proper amount is present. The drain plug torque specification is 20 ft/lbs, a detail that prevents damage during service.
Drivers using E85 or M85 fuels should be aware that AMSOIL oils with the appropriate viscosity are required for the OEM recommended drain intervals. While extended oil drains are possible, they should be verified through oil analysis when using these alternative fuel blends. For standard operation, the AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 offers the highest level of protection, outperforming conventional oils and ensuring up to 25,000 miles of service. If your vehicle has accumulated significant mileage, the AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil provides unique chemistry designed to reduce oil consumption and sludge.
Pairing your oil with a high-quality filter is just as important. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO17-EA) is engineered to provide 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns. This helps reduce engine wear by capturing small, wear-causing contaminants. For those preferring aftermarket options, the WIX XP Oil Filter (57502XP-EA) and WIX Oil Filter (57502-EA) are also compatible and provide premium media that exceeds standard OEM filtration benchmarks.
Transmission and Coolant Maintenance
The 2016 Transit-350 is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission (6R80), which demands fluid that can handle heavy towing and high temperatures. Initial fill capacity is 3.5 quarts, while a complete total fill requires 13.1 quarts. The AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed to withstand the rigors of challenging terrain and heavy loads, ensuring the transmission remains fluid even in sub-zero conditions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option that still offers full synthetic protection, the AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is an excellent alternative.
Coolant maintenance is equally vital for the longevity of the engine. Depending on whether your vehicle has the AHR16 or standard cooling system, the capacity varies. For the AHR16 system, you will need 16.4 quarts, while the standard system requires 14.9 quarts. AMSOIL offers two primary coolant options: the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant, which is a pre-mixed 50/50 ethylene glycol solution ready to use, and the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant, which is concentrated and allows for mixing with distilled water. Both formulations are phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free, ensuring compatibility with all cooling system metals and gaskets while protecting against corrosion for up to 150,000 miles.
Differential, Transfer Case, and Brake Fluid
The rear differential of your Transit-350 requires a synthetic gear lube to function correctly. For standard rear differentials, the capacity is 5.9 pints, while limited-slip rear differentials require 5.7 pints. The manufacturer recommends a GL-5 synthetic oil, specifically 75W-85. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube contains friction modifiers suitable for limited-slip applications and helps control thermal runaway, keeping operating temperatures lower and extending the life of seals and equipment.
Brake fluid is a critical safety component that should not be overlooked. The 2016 Ford Transit-350 requires a fluid that meets specific performance standards. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid provides a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring excellent responsiveness for both ABS and traction control systems. Using a synthetic brake fluid helps prevent moisture absorption, which can lower the boiling point and lead to brake fade or corrosion within the system.
Seasonal Storage and Additives
For owners who may store their vehicle during the off-season, proper preparation is key to preventing damage. The AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, fighting ethanol corrosion and preventing varnish buildup. Additionally, the AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil is designed to coat internal engine components, preventing rust during long periods of inactivity.
During regular operation, the AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive can help maintain peak performance. This additive restores up to 14% horsepower and cleans GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after just one tank of fuel. It is compatible with capless fuel systems and helps control pre-ignition knock, ensuring the engine runs efficiently regardless of driving conditions.
About the 2016 Ford Transit-350
The 2016 Ford Transit-350 represents a significant milestone for the Ford Transit line in North America, marking the company’s entry into the full-size van market with a modern, purpose-built platform. Unlike the older Econoline chassis that had served for decades, the 2016 model was designed from the ground up as a commercial vehicle, offering a more car-like driving experience with improved handling and safety features. Powered by the 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 engine, this model provides a balance of power and reliability suitable for a wide range of commercial applications, from cargo hauling to passenger shuttling.
Owners of the Transit-350 appreciate its robust build quality and versatility. The vehicle’s high roof and extended wheelbase options allow for maximum cargo capacity, making it a favorite among delivery services, contractors, and fleet operators. The 6R80 automatic transmission paired with the V6 engine delivers smooth power delivery, essential for stop-and-go urban driving or long-haul highway trips. The interior is designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring a spacious cabin that reduces driver fatigue during extended shifts.
One of the standout features of the Transit platform is its durability and serviceability. The vehicle is engineered to handle heavy payloads and severe operating conditions, which underscores the importance of using high-quality lubricants. Regular maintenance with premium fluids helps preserve the vehicle’s resale value and extends the service life of critical components like the engine and transmission. Whether navigating city streets or towing heavy equipment, the 2016 Ford Transit-350 stands as a reliable workhorse in the commercial van segment.
Maintaining Performance with AMSOIL
Choosing the right fluids for your 2016 Ford Transit-350 is an investment in the vehicle’s longevity and performance. AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are designed to exceed original equipment manufacturer specifications, providing superior protection against wear, heat, and contamination. By using these premium products, fleet owners and individual drivers can achieve longer service intervals, better fuel economy, and reduced maintenance costs over time.
The comprehensive range of AMSOIL products available for this vehicle ensures that every system, from the engine to the brakes, receives the care it deserves. With rigorous third-party testing and millions of miles of real-world validation, AMSOIL products offer peace of mind and proven reliability. Whether you are extending the time between oil changes or simply seeking the best possible protection for your Transit-350, AMSOIL delivers the performance you need to keep your vehicle running at its best.
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