Can you use synthetic oil in a Ford Focus?
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, a trusted auto service provider in the Mountain View, CA area, I often get questions from customers about the best oil to use for their vehicles. One common query is whether synthetic oil can be used in a Ford Focus. In this article, I'll provide a detailed answer to help Ford Focus owners make an informed decision about their oil choices.
Can You Use Synthetic Oil in a Ford Focus?
The short answer is yes, you can use synthetic oil in a Ford Focus. Ford recommends the use of synthetic oil in all of its vehicles, including the Focus model. According to the Ford Owner's Manual, the Ford Focus requires the use of 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic motor oil that meets the Ford specification WSS-M2C945-A.
Synthetic oil offers several benefits over conventional oil, including:
- Improved engine protection and performance, especially in extreme temperatures
- Longer oil change intervals, typically 5,000-10,000 miles
- Better fuel efficiency due to the oil's reduced friction
- Reduced engine wear and deposits
By using the recommended synthetic oil, Ford Focus owners can take advantage of these benefits and help extend the life of their vehicle's engine.
Choosing the Right Synthetic Oil for Your Ford Focus
When selecting a synthetic oil for your Ford Focus, it's important to choose one that meets the Ford WSS-M2C945-A specification. This ensures the oil is compatible with your vehicle's engine and will provide the necessary protection and performance. Some popular synthetic oil options that meet this specification include:
- Motorcraft Synthetic Blend Motor Oil
- Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy 5W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil
Be sure to check your owner's manual or consult with a trusted auto repair professional to determine the best synthetic oil for your Ford Focus.
Maintaining Your Ford Focus with Synthetic Oil
To get the most out of your synthetic oil, it's important to follow the recommended oil change intervals specified by Ford. Most manufacturers suggest changing synthetic oil every 5,000-10,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and oil quality.
Additionally, it's a good idea to have your Ford Focus's oil and filter changed by a professional auto repair technician. They can ensure the proper oil is used, the filter is replaced, and the oil level is topped off correctly. Regular maintenance like this can help keep your Ford Focus running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Fords take synthetic oil?
Ford strongly recommends using full-synthetic oil for your vehicle for optimal performance.
Is 5W-30 oil OK for Ford Focus?
5W-30 and 5W-40 are compatible with many models of common cars, including the Ford Ka, Ford Focus (pictured below), VW Golf, Skoda Fabia and Honda Civic.
When should you not use synthetic oil?
Better For Older Engines
This being said, however, it is still not recommended to use synthetic oil in engines that have experienced significant actions – specifically, those that have reached around 75,000 miles on the odometer.
Will synthetic oil damage a high mileage engine?
Myth: Full synthetic oil is not good for high mileage cars or older vehicles. The myth is rooted in the idea that synthetic oil is “slipperier”—lower in viscosity, or not as compatible with seals and will therefore leak or leak more in places conventional oil might not. Again, completely untrue.
Which oil is best for a Ford Focus?
The recommended grade for the full Ford range is magnatec 5w30 fully synthetic.
Which engine oil is best for Ford?
For a gasoline engine, we recommend SAE 5W-20 or SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil. If you've got a 3.0L or 2.0L diesel Transit engine, use Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 full synthetic diesel oil because diesel engines are configured differently than gasoline engines. Either way, you get a fantastic Ford F-150 oil type!
What happens if you put synthetic oil instead of regular?
Synthetics give you better gas mileage, longer engine life and the oil last longer. You can use either synthetic or regular oil in your engine. Mixing the two isn't recommended since you'll have to change the oil at the regular oil interval instead of the synthetic interval so it will cost more.
Does it matter what oil I put in my car?
Using the wrong oil can also cause your engine to become clogged with sludge, which can reduce its efficiency, and cause it to run less smoothly. The wrong motor oil can also cause your engine to leak. Check your owner's manual to find out what type of oil is recommended for your car.
Which is better, synthetic or regular oil?
Is synthetic oil better for my engine than conventional oil? Yes, synthetic oil is better for your engine than conventional oil. Although conventional oil (i.e., mineral oil) can provide adequate lubrication performance, it can't compete with the overall engine performance and protection provided by synthetics.
Is it OK to put full synthetic oil in any car?
It protects better, performs better, and lasts longer, and it's no longer made with a chemical compound that could hurt older vehicles. Modern synthetic oil is safe to use in all types of vehicles, ranging from new purchases to classics to aging not-so-classics.
