What is the oil specification for the Ford Explorer?
2 Answers
Ford Explorer uses the original 5W-40 specification oil. All Explorer models are equipped with turbocharged engines, and it is recommended to use full synthetic oil with a viscosity of 40. Generally, turbocharged engines use oil with a viscosity of 40 because the turbocharger also relies on oil for lubrication and heat dissipation. The details of Ford Explorer's dedicated oil are as follows: Oil viscosity: The viscosity of the oil should not be too high or too low. If the viscosity is too high, it will increase the resistance during engine operation, affecting the engine's power output and fuel economy. If the oil viscosity is too low, it will prevent the oil from forming a stable oil film on various components, which will increase engine wear. Replacement conditions: After adding new oil, sludge and carbon deposits on the components disperse into the oil, causing the oil color to turn black after a certain period. Usually, the oil's viscosity is used to determine whether it needs to be replaced, rather than observing the oil color turning black to conclude that a replacement is needed.
I've been driving my Ford Explorer for nearly a decade, always using 5W-30 synthetic oil. Ford officially recommends this grade because it offers moderate viscosity, ensuring smooth cold starts without thinning out in summer heat. My Explorer with the 3.0L engine specifies 5W-30 as standard in the manual. Regular oil changes are crucial – I check oil levels every 5,000 km, ensuring the dipstick (cold engine) never drops below MIN. Engine oil is the lifeblood; wrong viscosity accelerates wear and increases fuel consumption. Pairing synthetic brands like Mobil during maintenance extends service life. Even in northern winters, 5W-30 never froze. Always consult your owner's manual – it's foolproof against oil-related issues. With proper oil, my Explorer's clocked 300,000 km without major repairs.
