What is the recommended engine oil specification for the Ford Explorer?
2 Answers
The best engine oil specification for the Ford Explorer is 5W-40, as provided by the original manufacturer. If you wish to change the oil during later maintenance, you can choose brands such as Shell, Castrol, or Mobil. The official Ford Explorer manual recommends using 5W-40 engine oil or 0W-40. The viscosity of engine oil changes with temperature, so special attention should be paid to its performance under both low and high temperatures. For example, in 5W-30, the first number indicates low-temperature fluidity. 5W means it can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C. The smaller this number, the better the low-temperature fluidity, resulting in smoother cold starts for the car. The second number represents the kinematic viscosity of the oil at 100°C. A higher number indicates better ability to maintain viscosity under high temperatures, which can also be understood as better lubrication performance under high-temperature conditions. The method for changing the engine oil in the Ford Explorer is as follows: Wait for the engine temperature to drop, allowing the oil to flow back into the oil pan; Use a wrench to loosen the oil drain plug and place an oil pan underneath to catch the old oil until it stops flowing. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds to allow the oil in the main oil passages to drain out; Use a specialized wrench to remove the oil filter; Apply oil to the oil seal of the new oil filter and tighten it clockwise by hand; Add new oil through the filler cap on the engine valve cover, typically filling up to three-quarters of the oil container; Start the engine and let it run for 5 minutes, checking for any leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter. If leaks are found, perform necessary repairs; After stopping the engine, pull out the oil dipstick to check that the oil level is within the standard range.
As a long-time Explorer owner with over a decade of experience, I'm quite familiar with engine oil matters. The standard recommendation is 5W-30 synthetic oil, which is particularly well-suited for Ford's engine design. I remember when I first bought the car, the dealer emphasized using Motorcraft brand oil. I tried other oils, but the car had slower acceleration and more noise. Since then, I've always used 5W-30 – quick cold starts in winter, maintains viscosity in summer heat, and provides solid engine protection. Regular oil changes have extended my vehicle's lifespan and improved fuel efficiency. The manual clearly specifies this grade – new owners should definitely check it. Synthetic oil is also more environmentally friendly, reducing carbon footprint. In short, this is the perfect oil grade for the Explorer.
