As a car lover, I know how lubricant matters for the engine to run swiftly. When you choose a fluid that is not compatible with your car’s engine, it is like slowly destroying the engine. Its capability performance won’t be the same, and in the end, it won’t be anything more than a piece of junk. You won’t want that, right?
Ford has introduced Mercon exclusively for their vehicles. As time went by, it has upgraded for the better with new features. A common question that we get is Mercon V vs Mercon LV; which one is the best option? Or should you just mix the two of them?
In today’s article, we will make a detailed comparison between these two transmission fluids. You will get to know which aspects differ from each other and which one you need.
So, are you ready to explore some information?
Let’s start without any delay!
Mercon V vs Mercon LV: (side by side Comparison)
We know time is very precious. Not everyone will have 5 minutes in hand to go through the whole article. We will give a quick comparison table for them. However, it is better to read the full content to understand the topic more clearly.
Below is a table of comparison between Mercon LV and Mercon V:
| Features | Mercon V | Mercon LV |
| Base | Hydro processed base oil with special performance additives | Fully synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) |
| Viscosity | High viscosity index | Comparatively lower viscosity |
| Stability | Incredible oxidation and thermal resistance | Excellent shear stability with oxidation and thermal resistance |
| Wear Protection | Exceptional wear protection against rust | Outstanding abrasion and exceptional wear resistance |
| Shifting | Swift shifting in low temperature | Continuous fluid transmission without breaking in higher temperature |
| Compatibility | Compatible with classic Ford models, Dexron 111, type H, and type CJ fluid | Compatible with SAE 20W oil grade or ISO 46 hydraulic fluid |
| Usability | Old Ford models and power steering pump reservoirs | Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles |
the difference between the Mercon V and the Mercon LV
When it comes to engine oils, we have too many choices. So, we can not help but compare them to understand how they differ from each other and which one meets our demand the best. This comparison gets more intense when we consider oils from the same manufacturer.
We have already given a sneak peek using the comparison table between Mercon V and Mercon LV. However, those who don’t have much idea about lubricants may find it hard to understand. That’s why we will discuss each topic in detail below.
Check it out now!
1. Viscosity comparison
Viscosity is the property of a liquid substance that defines its resistance against deformity. For lubricants, it mainly refers to resistance to flow. The higher the viscosity, the difficult it is for fluid to flow.
Mercon V is an oil with high viscosity index. A stable viscosity index provides consistent transmission, even in lower temperatures. That’s why it is exclusively suitable for cold weather. However, it performs equally well at all temperatures.
Mercon LV has a lower viscosity index than Mercon V. As a result,the engines face lower friction when running. It makes the engine capable of withstanding insane heat and performing swiftly.
| Oil | Viscosity | Viscosity Index |
| Mercon V | cSt at 100°C – 7.5 cSt at 40°C – 33.2 cSt at -20°C – 1100 cSt at -40°C – 10,000 | 205 |
| Mercon LV | cSt at 100°C –6.0 cSt at 40°C – 29.6 cSt at -40°C – 10,200 | 155 |
2. Density comparison
Density defines how thick the oil is. Mercon V and Mercon LV are both from the same manufacturer but differ slightly in density. Mercon LV is a bit thicker than Mercon V. It varies in different temperatures, though. With high temperatures, Mercon LV becomes thicker.
Having thinner density, Mercon V prevents abrasion and internal friction more effectively.
| Oil | Density (lb/gal) |
| Mercon V | 7.19 |
| Mercon LV | 7.01 |
3. Specific Gravity comparison
Specific gravity is another typical specification of liquid substances. It is an index that measures the density of the fluid in comparison with water. Water is considered to have a distinctive gravity of 1.0. Any liquid having a high density will have a specific gravity of more than 1. And lower density liquids will have a gravity of less than 1.
However, this index is not constant. It changes with temperature. That’s why it is measured in a definite temperature, and it is also mentioned.
| Oil | Specific Gravity |
| Mercon V | 0.863 |
| Mercon LV | 0.842 |
4. Compatibility comparison
Despite being from the same oil family, they are not compatible. Both have different additives features and are suitable for different engines. But yes, some other oils show more or less compatibility with them.
Mercon V is mainly made for Ford automatic transmission. It contains almost the same characteristics as Dexron 111 and can be used in its place. Type CJ and type H fluids can also be used with Mercon V.
However; it doesn’t show any compatibility with type F fluid.
Being the most upgraded transmission fluid, Mercon LV is almost incompatible with all previous oils.But yes, older GM Dexron can be used with it on transmission. SAE 20W viscosity and ISO 46 hydraulic fluids also show great compatibility with Mercon LV.
| Oil | Compatibility |
| Mercon V | Wide range Ford models, Dexron lll, type H, and type CJ oils. |
| Mercon LV | SAE 20W and ISO 46 hydraulic oils. |
5. Overall Performance comparison
No matter how rich additives an oil contains, if it doesn’t give you a satisfactory performance, you won’t give it any second chance. After all, you need a lubricant that will run your car’s engine swiftly and also for a long time.
Both Mercon V and LV are transmission fluids with great overall performance. Mercon V comes with incredible anti-shudder protection, which ensures smooth shifting operation. Thus, it protects the engine from sticky mud and rush build-up and keeps it clean for a long period.
Even in all weather with extraordinary sludge resistance, the excellent transmission makes Mercon LV much preferable to users. And when exceptional oxidation and thermal resistance are combined with the former features, it takes the oil to a different level.
| Oil | Performance |
| Mercon V | Anti-shudder protection keeps the engine clean and ensures longevity. |
| Mercon LV | Exclusive sludge resistance, thermal resistance, and superior oxidation |
6. Weather Suitability comparison
Weather, especially temperature, plays an active role when choosing an oil for your car. If you live in a cold country but choose an oil that shudders in the cold and disrupts the shifting, it won’t be anything but a waste of money. Similarly, an oil that can’t resist when engines get hot is unsuitable for the hot country.
Mercon V has high viscosity index and flows naturally but not too fast. It ensures consistent fluid flow even at low temperatures, making it ideal for cold weather. But at the same time, it provides solid performance in all weather.
On the other hand, Mercon LV comes with a low viscosity index and ensures low friction when the engine is running. Being capable of withstanding instant and insane heat, it provides continuous operation, even when the engine heats up.
| Oil | Weather Compatibility |
| Mercon V | Consistent transmission at low temperature. It can perform well in all weather. |
| Mercon LV | It can withstand instant heat from the engine and provides consistent performance. |
7. Usability comparison
Almost all Ford models manufactured after 2008 can use Mercon V more or less. However, Mercon LV, the upgraded version of Mercon, was recently introduced in the market. Now, the latest Ford models use Mercon LV instead.
Mercon LV is also one of the best options for Lincoln and Mercury vehicles, along with Ford.
| Oil | Usability |
| Mercon V | Wide range of Ford models and power steering pump reservoirs |
| Mercon LV | Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. |
people also ask
1. Is Mercon V same as Mercon LV?
Mercon V and LV are from the same manufacturer. They are both automatic transmission fluids. However, Mercon LV is the upgraded version of Mercon V with some additional additives. So, yes, they are not the same. Neither are they compatible with each other.
2. Can I mix Mercon V and Mercon LV?
Mercon V and LV are two different lubricants with a variation in their viscosity. As we all know, oils of different viscosity should not be mixed. So, even if you mix both oils, it won’t bring any good to you. Instead, it will only damage your car’s engine.
3. What is Mercon V compatible with?
Mercon V is compatible with a few other transmission fluids. The Ford model, Dexron 111, type CJ and type H fluids are remarkably compatible with Mercon V. Unfortunately; type F can not replace Mercon V.
4. Can I use Mercon V in my new Ford?
Mercon V is a first-class oil made forFord models especially. But it has upgraded with time, and now there are a few other variants like Mercon SP, Mercon LV, etc. So, you have to check your car’s manual first to know which oil is usable.
If your manual says Mercon LV, you can not use Mercon V. Both have different additives and are incompatible.
5. What is the viscosity of Mercon LV?
Viscosity is a primary characteristic that is very important to know. Mercon LV has a low viscosity index.
Viscosity-
- At 100°C – 6.0
- At 40°C –29.6
- At -40°C – 10,200
Viscosity Index- 155
closing thoughts
If you Google, you will find hundreds of lubricants available for cars. But are they all suitable for every engine type? Of course, not. Oil types vary significantly depending on the engine’s structure, feature, and function. Even weather plays a massive role in this matter.
The Mercon oil series is exclusively designed for Ford engines. So, if you are a Ford user, you can trust your car’s engine to Mercon with your eyes closed. But Mercon V vs Mercon LV, which one will be the best choice for you?
Both oils have some unique characteristics and are made for specific functions. So, none of them is any less than the other and excels in doing what they are supposed to do. You should choose the one that fulfills your requirements best.
Hopefully, we have cleared your confusion regarding both oils. Now you know how two lubricants are different and which one goes well with your engine type. Choose the best and most compatible one and enjoy a swift ride!
Read also:
key takeaways from this article
- Mercon V has a high viscosity index, while LV comes with a lower viscosity index.
- For cold weather or low temperature, Mercon V is more suitable. On the other hand, Mercon LV can survive in instant heat.
- Both oils have a density lower than that of water, MerconLV being slightly thicker than Mercon V.
- When it comes to anti-shudder protection, Mercon V performs excellently. But the extraordinary sludge resistance makes Mercon LV user-friendly and engine friendly.
- Dexron 111, type CJ and type H oils are compatible with Mercon V. And for the latest Ford models, Lincoln, and Mercury engines, Mercon LV is one of the best options.
Thanks much. This article explained everything in great detail.
Regards,
Rob
I was not aware that my ford specification is Mercon LV when I bought mercon V to service my transmission. But with this exposure that this article has given me , can I change the transmission instantly to mercon LV or I should wait till when the gear oil is due for next service before I change it. Ford escape 2013 is what I drive in Nigeria. Thank you
It’s always recommended to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for fluid specifications, so ideally, you should use Mercon LV for your Ford Escape 2013 if that’s what Ford specifies.
Regarding when to change, here are two scenarios:
If you’ve already put Mercon V in your vehicle: It’s generally not recommended to mix different types of transmission fluid, as they may have different characteristics and mixing them could potentially harm the transmission. If you have already filled your transmission with Mercon V, it would be advisable to change it to Mercon LV as soon as possible. However, if you notice any transmission issues (like slipping, difficulty shifting, etc.), then you should take your vehicle to a mechanic immediately.
If you haven’t put the Mercon V in your vehicle yet: In this case, you can wait until your next scheduled service to change the fluid to Mercon LV. There’s no need to perform the service earlier if your transmission is currently filled with the correct fluid and is functioning properly.
In either scenario, it’s important to make sure you’re using the correct transmission fluid to avoid causing potential damage to your transmission over time.