The 2018 Ford F-150 requires a long-life, ethylene glycol–based coolant that meets Ford’s specifications. The recommended option is Motorcraft Extended Life Coolant (ELC) in a 50/50 premixed formulation, or any coolant that explicitly meets Ford specification (WSS-M97B44-D or newer) and is approved for aluminum engines.
Understanding Ford’s coolant requirements for the 2018 F-150
Ford vehicles with modern cooling systems use an Extended Life Coolant designed to protect against corrosion in aluminum engines and long service intervals. Using a coolant that does not meet Ford’s spec can reduce protection and potentially affect warranty coverage. Always verify compatibility with Ford’s official specifications when selecting a product.
Recommended coolant options
Before listing options, note that you should choose a product that explicitly states Ford compatibility and the Ford specification. Options below reflect common, Ford-approved choices used for this model year.
- Motorcraft Extended Life Coolant (ELC), 50/50 premixed, formulated to meet Ford specification WSS-M97B44-D (or newer).
- Any coolant that explicitly states compatibility with Ford WSS-M97B44-D or newer and is approved for aluminum engines.
- If using concentrate, mix only with distilled water to achieve the recommended 50/50 ratio, ensuring the concentrate also meets Ford specification.
Concluding: Using a Ford-approved coolant ensures proper cooling system protection and aligns with warranty requirements. If in doubt, consult your owner's manual or a Ford service professional.
Maintenance and replacement guidelines
Maintenance tips include checking coolant level when the engine is cold, inspecting for signs of contamination or oil in the coolant, and following Ford’s recommended service intervals. When adding or replacing coolant, avoid mixing non-Ford coolants unless the products are clearly labeled as compatible with Ford specifications. A full system flush and fill should be performed per the owner's manual or by a professional if the cooling system has been compromised.
Summary
In summary, your 2018 Ford F-150 should use a long-life, ethylene glycol–based coolant that meets Ford’s spec. The simplest and most reliable choice is Motorcraft Extended Life Coolant (ELC) in a 50/50 premixed formulation, or another Ford-approved coolant that meets WSS-M97B44-D or newer. Always verify with the owner’s manual or a trusted dealer, and avoid mixing with non-Ford coolants unless compatibility is confirmed.