Mercon 5 transmission fluid (MERCON® V) is a high-quality automatic transmission and power steering fluid made by Ford for use in Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. It helps ensure smooth shifting, protects against wear, and works well in both hot and cold weather.
If you drive a Ford or similar vehicle, Mercon 5 might be exactly what your transmission needs to stay healthy and strong. In this article, you’ll learn what makes Mercon 5 special, which cars use it, and why it’s trusted by mechanics and drivers alike.
What Is Mercon 5 Transmission Fluid?
Mercon 5 (also written as MERCON® V) is a premium-quality automatic transmission fluid made by Ford Motor Company. It’s also used as power steering fluid in many Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles.
This fluid is part of the Motorcraft® brand, which is Ford’s official line of auto parts and chemicals. That means it’s made to meet high standards, and it works best with Ford-made vehicles.
What Does Mercon 5 Do?
Every car has a transmission, and that’s what helps your car change gears smoothly when you drive. The transmission fluid makes sure everything inside the transmission stays cool, clean, and works the right way.
Mercon 5 helps with:
- Smooth shifting when you drive
- Protecting parts from wear and tear
- Preventing rust and corrosion
- Stopping foam, sludge, and gum from building up
- Helping your power steering system work properly
It even works great in both hot and cold temperatures, which means your car runs well no matter the weather.
What Cars Use Mercon 5?
Mercon 5 is recommended for:
- Ford vehicles
- Lincoln vehicles
- Mercury vehicles
If your owner’s manual says to use MERCON® V or MERCON®, then this is the right fluid for you.
It also works in:
- Manual transmissions
- Power steering systems
- FNR5 transmissions (previously used FNR5 fluid XT-9-QMM5)
- AWF21 transmissions (previously used Premium ATF XT-8-QAW)
But be careful! Don’t use Mercon 5 in vehicles that need:
- MERCON® SP
- MERCON® LV
- MERCON® ULV
- CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) fluids
- Type F automatic transmission fluid
- Transfer cases that previously used MERCON® ATF
Always double-check your vehicle’s manual to see which fluid is right.
What Is Mercon 5 Made Of?
Mercon 5 is made with:
- Hydroprocessed base oils (which are super clean and high-quality)
- Special performance additives that protect your transmission
This combo gives your car:
- Better shifting performance
- Longer-lasting transmission health
- Great thermal resistance (good for hot weather)
- Great low-temperature fluidity (good for cold weather)
- Rust protection
- Foam prevention
- Cleaner internal parts (less sludge, less gunk)
It’s even dyed red, so it’s easy to spot leaks under your car.
Why Choose Mercon 5 Over Other Fluids?
There are many transmission fluids out there. But Mercon 5 is specifically made to meet Ford’s exact standards. When you use Mercon 5 in a Ford vehicle, you’re giving your car the best chance to run smoothly for years.
Here’s what makes it different:
- Made by Ford, for Ford vehicles
- High viscosity index – this means it flows well at any temperature
- Longer life than cheaper fluids
- Protects your car’s moving parts
Plus, Ford stands behind it with strong data and safety testing.
Where Can You Use Mercon 5?
Here are some common uses for Mercon 5 transmission fluid:
Automatic Transmissions
Most common use. Keeps gears shifting smoothly.
Manual Transmissions
Yes, Mercon 5 can work in some manual transmissions that used MERCON before.
Power Steering Systems
Helps the wheel turn easily and keeps the steering system in good shape.
FNR5 and AWF21 Transmissions
Perfect for those older systems that originally used other types of Ford ATF.
Industrial Hydraulic Systems
Surprisingly, it can also be used as a hydraulic oil in some machinery. It matches ISO 46 or SAE 20W hydraulic oil standards.
What Sizes Does Mercon 5 Come In?
You can buy Mercon 5 in different sizes based on what you need:
| Part Number | Size | Package |
| XT-5-QMC | 1 Quart | 12 Quarts/Case |
| XT-5-5Q3M | 5 Quarts | 3 Units |
| XT-5-DMC | 55 Gallons | Bulk Drum |
Need just a little? Grab a quart. Doing a full transmission flush? The 5-quart jug is perfect. Working in a shop or fleet? Go with the 55-gallon drum.
How Can You Tell If It’s Mercon 5?
- Look for the Motorcraft® label
- It should say MERCON® V clearly on the front
- It will be bright red in color
- Each part number (like XT-5-QMC) is made only for Mercon 5
Also, check the Product Data Sheet and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) if you want the full breakdown. You can ask for these from a dealer or call 1-800-448-2063 for help.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Fluid?
Using the wrong fluid in your transmission can:
- Make shifting feel rough or jerky
- Damage the transmission over time
- Cause leaks or overheating
- Mess up your power steering
- Void your warranty
So always make sure you use Mercon 5 if your vehicle requires it.
How Often Should You Change Mercon 5?
Ford usually recommends changing transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the car and how you drive. For power steering systems, the fluid might last even longer.
Signs you might need to change it:
- Shifting feels slow or weird
- Fluid looks dark or dirty
- Strange smell (like burning)
- Transmission is making noise
Always check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic.
Where to Buy Mercon 5 Transmission Fluid
You can find Mercon 5 at:
- Ford dealerships
- Auto parts stores
- Online (like Amazon or Ford’s parts website)
- Big box stores like Walmart or AutoZone
Make sure you’re getting genuine Motorcraft® Mercon 5. Look for the red fluid and the trusted Motorcraft label.
Final Thoughts: Is Mercon 5 the Right Choice?
If your vehicle needs Mercon or Mercon V, then yes — Mercon 5 is the best fluid for your transmission or power steering system. It’s designed by Ford, made for Ford vehicles, and trusted by mechanics everywhere.
Keeps your car running smooth
Works in hot and cold
Fights wear, rust, and sludge
Safe for power steering too
Always follow your vehicle manual to make sure you’re using the right fluid. And if you’re unsure, your local mechanic or Ford dealer can help.
