Does a Ford Explorer need synthetic oil?
Yes, the Ford Explorer does require the use of synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is the recommended oil type for this vehicle, as it provides superior performance and protection compared to conventional motor oil.
Synthetic Oil Requirement for the Ford Explorer
According to the Ford owner's manual, the Ford Explorer requires the use of SAE 5W-30 synthetic motor oil that meets the Ford specification WSS-M2C946-B1. This specification ensures the oil meets Ford's stringent quality and performance standards for their vehicles.
The use of synthetic oil is recommended for the Ford Explorer for several reasons:
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Synthetic oils have lower viscosity and reduced friction, which can improve fuel economy compared to conventional oils.
- Enhanced Engine Protection: Synthetic oils provide better lubrication and resistance to breakdown, helping to protect the engine from wear and tear, especially under high-stress conditions.
- Longer Oil Change Intervals: Synthetic oils typically last longer than conventional oils, allowing for extended oil change intervals as recommended by Ford.
- Better Performance in Extreme Temperatures: Synthetic oils maintain their viscosity and flow properties better in both hot and cold temperatures, providing improved engine performance and protection.
It's important to always use the recommended synthetic oil type and follow the manufacturer's oil change intervals to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of the Ford Explorer's engine.
Can I use 5W30 instead of 5w20 in my Ford Explorer?
It's exactly what you should be using, 5w20 is what is specified by ford for the modular engines. 5w30 is okay as well since that is what ford originally specified, but if you live in a really cold climate then it's safer to stick with the 5w20 due to the smaller tolerances of the modular engines.
Can I switch back to regular oil after using synthetic?
Myth: Once you switch to synthetic oil, you can never switch back. This is one of the most persistent myths about synthetic oil—and completely untrue. You can switch back and forth at any time. In fact, synthetic blends are simply a mixture of synthetic and conventional oils.
Why can't you go back to regular oil after synthetic?
Myth: Once you switch to synthetic oil, you can never switch back. This is one of the most persistent myths about synthetic oil—and completely untrue. You can switch back and forth at any time. In fact, synthetic blends are simply a mixture of synthetic and conventional oils.
Does the Ford Explorer require full synthetic oil?
Our Top Ford Maintenance Tips
Our secret to providing the best protection for your Ford Explorer is to use full synthetic motor oil. This type of motor oil offers the widest spectrum of protection for your vehicle, and leads to the longest oil life for your engine.
Is there a downside to synthetic oil?
Disadvantages of synthetic oil
Synthetic oils have compatibility challenges with additives, there could be separation of additives and base oil in cold storage conditions. Multi-grade motor oils using synthetics may exhibit slightly less fuel economy at highway speeds compared to mineral oil.
Do Fords require synthetic oil?
Our service team highly recommends full synthetic oil because it better suits your Ford engine and it will last longer. Plus, Motorcraft only manufactures full synthetic or synthetic blend motor oils.
What happens if you don't put synthetic oil in your car?
Synthetic oils typically provide better protection than conventional oils, but switching back and forth between full synthetic and conventional oil will not damage the engine. Of course, this depends on the current engine condition and the quality of the conventional oil being used.
What happens if you use standard oil instead of synthetic?
When it comes to doing oil changes, switching between synthetic and conventional oil is perfectly okay. Despite the oil myths, both oil types are compatible with each other – no engine flush needed. So, simply making the switch will not cause any damage to your engine nor impact your travels.
Which engine oil is better, synthetic or regular?
5. 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.
Does my car actually need synthetic oil?
Cars don't know or care if you run regular or synthetic oil. As long as the viscosity is correct for the application, there's no bad that can come from it.
