How much oil does a 302 take?
For the Ford 302 Windsor V8, the standard oil capacity is about 5 quarts with a new filter. In practical terms, a typical oil change on a 302 requires roughly five quarts of oil, with a little extra added after installing the filter to bring the level to the full mark.
Engine age, configuration, and maintenance history can affect the exact amount. The figure below offers a reliable baseline and notes where variation can occur, so you can plan your purchase and avoid running low on oil.
Oil capacity basics
This quick guide summarizes typical capacities and what affects them. Use it as a baseline, but verify with your owner's manual or service specs for your year and variant.
- Oil capacity with filter change: about 5 quarts (roughly 4.8–5.0 qt, depending on the oil pan, filter size, and dipstick calibration).
- Oil capacity without changing the filter: around 4 quarts if you drain the pan and do not replace the filter.
Bottom line: plan for about 5 quarts for a standard oil change on most Ford 302 Windsor engines, and keep a small buffer on hand. Always verify with the dipstick after filling and adjust as needed.
Choosing the right oil and filter
For most 302 Windsor engines, 5W-30 is a common recommendation in moderate climates. In hotter climates or for older engines, 10W-30 can be appropriate. When in doubt, use the grade recommended by Ford for your specific year and model, and consider a high-mileage or synthetic blend if the engine shows wear or consumes oil.
Notes by variant
While the 302 Windsor (5.0L) generally shares the 5-quart capacity, some variant years or aftermarket configurations may differ slightly due to pan geometry or aftermarket filters. If you have a 302 from a lightweight truck, performance build, or a special edition, consult the exact workshop manual for your engine.
Summary
Most Ford 302 Windsor engines take about 5 quarts of oil with a new filter. If you do not replace the filter, about 4 quarts may be sufficient. Always confirm the exact requirement for your year and configuration and check the oil level with the dipstick after filling.
