Does Ford recommend oil additives?
When it comes to maintaining your Ford vehicle, questions about oil additives often arise. Many drivers wonder if these products can enhance engine performance or extend the life of their car. As an experienced auto service provider, I’ll break down whether Ford recommends oil additives and what you should consider before using them.
What Are Oil Additives?
Oil additives are chemical compounds added to engine oil to improve its performance. They claim to enhance lubrication, reduce engine wear, clean internal components, and even improve fuel efficiency. While some additives are included in motor oil formulations by manufacturers, aftermarket oil additives are sold separately and marketed as performance boosters.
Ford's Official Stance on Oil Additives
Ford, like many other major automakers, generally does not recommend the use of aftermarket oil additives. The company designs its engines to work optimally with the recommended motor oil specified in the owner’s manual. Ford-approved oils already contain the necessary additives to meet the engine's performance and protection requirements.
Using aftermarket oil additives may interfere with the carefully balanced formulation of the oil, potentially leading to reduced performance or even engine damage. Ford emphasizes the importance of using oils that meet their specifications, such as those certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API) or meeting Ford's WSS-M2C standards.
Why Ford Recommends Against Oil Additives
Here are some key reasons why Ford advises against using aftermarket oil additives:
- Engine Compatibility: Ford engines are engineered to perform with specific oil formulations. Adding aftermarket products can disrupt this balance.
- Warranty Concerns: Using unapproved additives may void your vehicle's warranty if they cause damage.
- Unnecessary Expense: High-quality motor oils already contain additives designed to protect your engine, making additional products redundant.
- Potential Risks: Some additives may cause sludge buildup, reduce oil flow, or lead to other unintended consequences.
What Should You Do Instead?
To ensure your Ford vehicle runs smoothly, follow these best practices:
- Use the motor oil recommended in your owner’s manual. Look for oils that meet Ford’s specifications.
- Stick to a regular oil change schedule to keep your engine clean and well-lubricated.
- Consult a trusted mechanic if you have concerns about your engine’s performance.
Conclusion
While oil additives may seem like a quick fix for improving engine performance, Ford does not recommend their use. Instead, focus on using high-quality motor oil that meets the manufacturer’s specifications and maintaining a consistent service schedule. If you have questions about your vehicle’s oil or engine care, feel free to reach out to Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are oil additives recommended?
Although aftermarket oil additives are not required for your car to run, they provide significant benefits that improve the performance and longevity of your engine.
What engine oil do Ford recommend?
Ford Exclusively Recommends Castrol
Ford Castrol engine oils are designed to achieve the CO2 and fuel consumption figures stated in your owner's handbook.
How many miles is motorcraft synthetic blend good for?
approximately 5,000 to 7,500 miles
Synthetic Blend Oil
This mixture provides exceptional low-temperature properties and extra resistance to oxidation. Synthetic blend oil has a better oil life than traditional motor oil and can go for approximately 5,000 to 7,500 miles on average.
Should I add an oil additive to my car?
Many car manufacturers state that after-market oil additives are not necessary, even though they sell their own brand of oil additives. Some after-market oil additives contain corrosive chemicals, including chlorine-based lubricating compounds that may be harmful to internal engine parts.
How many miles does Ford recommend between oil changes?
5,000 to 10,000 miles
If your Ford doesn't have an IOLM, follow the factory-recommended oil replacement intervals in your owner's manual, generally recommended every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or every six months, depending on your model and driving conditions.
Why does Ford recommend synthetic blend?
Synthetic oil offers better performance in extreme cold or extreme heat. The synthetic oil flows and coats engine parts quicker in the cold of winter and break down slower in the extreme heat of the summer and continue to protect your engine from wear.
Should I put an additive in my oil tank?
These impurities include particles like dirt, soot, and water droplets that can impact the oil tank. When the tank has impurities, it will become inefficient. Fortunately, additives can help remove these impurities and ensure your system is back to running efficiently.
What happens if you use synthetic blend instead of full synthetic?
For most vehicles, synthetic blend is a good choice. If your vehicle speficies that full synthetic is required, then a synthetic blend will not be okay – it could actually leave your engine vulnerable to damage.
Which oil brand does Ford recommend?
Motorcraft®
What is the recommended engine oil for my Ford? Ford recommends using Motorcraft®* motor oil for your Ford vehicle. Using the right oil helps keep your vehicle's engine clean, reduces overall wear, and maximizes performance.
What does Ford recommend for an oil change?
Ford recommends its Motorcraft brand of oil for its vehicles. Motorcraft meets Ford's strict standards for quality as it works to keep your engine in top shape. In general, Ford recommends SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 for most of its vehicles. Hybrid vehicles may require 0W-20, which works better at lower temperatures.
