What engine oil is used in Ford?
Understanding why oil specifications vary by model
Key factors influencing the right oil
Engine type (gasoline, turbocharged, hybrid, or diesel), operating temperature range, and whether the vehicle is used for short city trips or long highway runs all affect which oil grade and viscosity are optimal. The brand or blend (synthetic vs. conventional) can also impact protection and longevity.
Common oil grades you might encounter in Ford engines
- 0W-20: Widely used in many modern Ford gasoline engines for fuel efficiency and cold-start protection; often offered as full synthetic or synthetic blend.
- 5W-20: Another common grade in several Ford engines, particularly older or regional variants; typically a synthetic blend or full synthetic.
- 5W-30: Used in some engines (especially in certain climates or turbocharged variants) where a slightly thicker oil is recommended.
- 5W-40 or 10W-40: More common in diesel engines or high-load/high-temperature conditions; verify compatibility with your engine.
- Diesel-specific grades (e.g., heavier grades such as 5W-40 or 15W-40): Certain Ford diesel engines require these grades, depending on model year and market.
Oil choice should always match the vehicle’s specification, not just the viscosity rating. Using the wrong oil can affect performance, efficiency, and warranty coverage.
How to find the exact specification for your Ford
- Check the owner’s manual for the Lubrication or Specifications section, which lists the recommended grade and any required Ford specification.
- Inspect the under-hood label or engine bay sticker, which sometimes shows the recommended oil viscosity.
- Use Ford’s official Oil Finder tool or Motorcraft oil catalog by entering your vehicle’s VIN or model details to retrieve the exact specification.
- Ask a Ford dealership or a qualified technician to confirm the proper oil for your engine if you’re unsure.
Following these steps ensures you select the correct oil for your specific Ford engine, climate, and use case.
Synthetic vs conventional oil in Ford engines
For most modern Ford engines, synthetic or synthetic-blend oils are preferred due to improved protection, longer drain intervals, and better performance in extreme temperatures. Some older or regional models may still operate with conventional oil, but Ford’s current guidance generally leans toward synthetic options when the specification allows. Always verify the required grade and formulation for your vehicle.
Motorcraft oils and official guidance
Summary
Is Mobil 1 approved by Ford?
Warranty. It is important to use the right oil in your car to comply with the Ford manufacturer specifications. Using the right Mobil 1 product during routine servicing and according to your vehicle's handbook will not affect the Ford manufacturer's warranty.
What engine oil do Ford recommend?
Ford Exclusively Recommends Castrol
Therefore, Ford engines are prefilled with Ford Castrol engine oil, so that your engine is protected from the moment you start your vehicle.
What brand of oil does Ford use?
Motorcraft brand
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.
Can you use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 in a Ford Focus?
Using 5W-30 instead can reduce fuel economy and impede flow throughout the engine. While using it temporarily in a pinch likely won't cause your engine lasting harm, remember that the engineers who built your engine did so with a specific viscosity oil in mind, meaning it's best to stick with it.
