What kind of oil does a 2012 Ford Figo take?
In short, the 2012 Ford Figo’s oil type depends on the engine: petrol variants typically use 5W-20 or 5W-30, while diesel variants commonly require 5W-40. Always verify the exact grade for your specific engine and market in the owner's manual or with a Ford service professional.
In detail, the Figo offered petrol and diesel options across different regions, and oil specifications are tailored to the engine design, climate, and local service standards. This guide outlines typical ranges and how to confirm the exact specification for your car.
Oil recommendations by engine type
The following are common oil grades used in 2012 Figo configurations. Your exact specification may vary by market or engine code, so consult your manual or dealer for confirmation.
- Petrol engines (for example, 1.2 Ti‑VCT): typically 5W‑20 or 5W‑30, meeting current API standards and Ford service specifications used in your region.
- Diesel engines (for example, 1.4 TDCi): typically 5W‑40, meeting API and diesel-specific specifications appropriate for your market.
These ranges cover the majority of markets and engines, but there can be exceptions depending on the exact engine code and climate. Always confirm the precise grade for your vehicle.
How to confirm the right oil for your car
To verify the correct oil, follow these steps:
- Check the owner's manual or service booklet for the recommended oil grade and specification for your engine code.
- Look for any labeling in the engine bay or on a service sticker that references the lubrication specification.
- Consult a Ford dealer or a qualified mechanic with your VIN to confirm the exact grade and capacity for your vehicle.
Using the wrong oil can affect engine protection, performance, and warranty coverage, so it’s important to confirm the exact specification before purchasing or adding oil.
Summary
The 2012 Ford Figo’s oil requirements vary by engine type and market. Petrol models typically call for 5W-20 or 5W-30, while diesel models commonly require 5W-40. Always verify against your specific engine code and market in the owner's manual or with a Ford service professional to ensure optimal protection and compliance.
Does Ford require synthetic oil?
Yes, Ford recommends and uses synthetic oil, including full synthetic or synthetic blend, in most of its modern vehicles. The specific type, such as 5W-20 or 5W-30, depends on the vehicle's model and engine, and synthetic oil is recommended for its enhanced engine protection and longer intervals between oil changes.
Key details
- Modern vehicles: Most newer Ford models are designed to use synthetic or synthetic blend oil from the factory, and their maintenance schedules are based on it.
- Performance benefits: Synthetic oil offers better lubrication, resists temperature changes, and has enhanced additives to prevent clogging and corrosion, which protects the engine more effectively.
- Longer oil change intervals: Using synthetic oil allows for longer intervals between changes, often up to 7,500 or 10,000 miles, which can lead to long-term cost savings despite a higher upfront cost for the oil itself.
- Vehicle-specific recommendation: The correct oil is critical for maintaining the vehicle's warranty and engine longevity. Always check your owner's manual or driver information screen for the specific viscosity and type recommended for your particular model, year, and engine.
- Examples: High-performance models like the Mustang GT and EcoBoost engines are especially good candidates for synthetic oil, and modern F-150s often require full synthetic, such as 5W-30 for many EcoBoost and V8 engines.
Can you use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 in a Ford Focus?
Yes, you can likely use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20, but you should always check your owner's manual or the oil cap first to confirm the correct viscosity for your specific Ford Focus model and engine, as some models (especially turbo or high-performance variants) specifically require 5W-30, while others like the 1.0L or certain base models recommend 5W-20. Using a slightly thicker 5W-30 oil may slightly reduce fuel efficiency but should still provide adequate lubrication and protection, while using 5W-20 will maximize fuel economy.
Considerations when switching
- Check your manual: This is the most important step to avoid potential issues like reduced fuel economy or incorrect lubrication for your specific engine.
- Engine protection: A thicker oil like 5W-30 offers a thicker film at operating temperature, which some argue provides better protection, especially in very hot climates.
- Fuel efficiency: A thinner oil like 5W-20 is designed to reduce internal friction and maximize fuel economy, which is why it's often recommended by manufacturers.
- Engine performance: While 5W-30 should not damage your engine, some drivers have reported that thicker oil can cause cold-start rattle in certain engines or a minor reduction in performance.
- Other factors: The presence of a turbocharger, the age and mileage of your engine, and your local climate can all influence which oil is best suited for your vehicle.
In summary
While 5W-30 is likely a safe option for many Ford Focus models, it's always best to confirm your vehicle's specific requirements in the owner's manual or on the oil cap before making the switch. If your manual specifies 5W-20, using 5W-30 will likely cause a slight decrease in fuel economy.
Which engine oil is best, 5W30 or 5W40?
5W30 engine oils has a narrower temperature range then 5W40. 5W30 is suitable for operating temperature between -25°C and 25°C, and 5W40 has a range of between -25°C and 35°C. In terms of oil flow, 5W30 has greater flow than 5W40. However, for providing higher pressure, 5W40 is superior.
Can I use 5W-30 in a Ford Fiesta?
Fully synthetic 5W-30 is considered the gold standard in oil for Ford engines. If you want to protect your engine and help it stay running at its best for longer, always invest in high-quality synthetic engine oil that offers maximum protection and durability.
