What brand of oil does Ford use from the factory?
In Ford's North American lineup, the factory-fill motor oil is typically Motorcraft, Ford's in-house brand. The exact grade depends on the engine and climate, commonly 5W-20 or 5W-30, and regional supply agreements can lead to other brands in markets outside the United States. Always verify the exact brand and grade by checking the owner's manual or the oil fill cap on your engine.
Factory-fill brand by market
Ford's approach to factory-fill oil varies by market and model. The default in North America is Motorcraft, while regional contracts occasionally specify other brands in Europe and elsewhere. The correct brand is listed in the vehicle’s documentation and on the engine oil fill cap.
North American market (Ford USA/Canada/Mexico)
For vehicles sold in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Motorcraft is typically the factory-fill brand. This aligns with Ford’s parts strategy and warranty requirements.
- Motorcraft is the standard factory-fill oil for most Ford engines in North America.
- The usual viscosity choices are 5W-20 or 5W-30, depending on engine type and climate.
As with any factory specification, the exact brand and grade can vary by model and year, so verification is essential.
European and other markets
In Europe and some other regions, Ford has, at times, used regional-brand partnerships for factory fills. Castrol and Mobil 1 have appeared in various Ford models under regional contracts, but the specific brand and grade depend on the model year and engine. The official documentation for your vehicle will confirm the exact factory-fill brand.
- Castrol and Mobil 1 have been used in certain European Ford models under regional agreements.
- Brand variations are determined by regional supply contracts and model specifications.
Because regional variations exist, always consult the owner’s manual or the under-hood oil-fill sticker for the precise brand and grade for your car.
Common factory-fill oil grades
Beyond brand, the grade Ford uses at factory fill is tied to engine design and climate. The following grades appear most frequently, but the exact specification is model-specific and listed in your manual:
- 5W-20 (often the standard for many modern Ford gasoline engines, typically synthetic or synthetic blend)
- 5W-30 (used in certain engines or hotter climates)
- 0W-20 (found in some newer engines and hybrid configurations)
Always verify the exact grade for your vehicle in the owner’s manual, on the oil-cap label, or via Ford’s official service documentation.
What to check on your vehicle
To ensure you’re using the correct factory-fill oil when servicing your Ford, use these checks:
- Owner’s manual specification for brand and viscosity
- Under-hood oil-fill cap which often lists the required oil grade
- Service sticker on the hood or under the dasht to confirm the recommended oil
If you’re unsure after checking these sources, contact a Ford dealer or a qualified technician. Using the wrong oil can affect performance and warranty coverage.
Summary
Ford generally relies on Motorcraft for factory-fill motor oil in its North American vehicles, with typical grades around 5W-20 or 5W-30 depending on the engine and climate. Regional variations exist outside North America, where Castrol or Mobil 1 have appeared under regional supply contracts. The definitive answer for a specific vehicle is found in the owner’s manual or on the engine oil fill cap.
