What kind of oil does a 2012 Transit van take?
The typical engine oil for a 2012 Ford Transit diesel is 5W-30 fully synthetic oil that meets Ford’s WSS-M2C913-D specification; some engines or climates may allow a 5W-40. Always verify with the owner’s manual or a Ford dealer using your VIN.
In detail, the 2012 Transit offered diesel engines such as the 2.2-liter Duratorq TDCi in many markets, with oil requirements that can vary by engine code, emission package, and climate. This guide outlines the standard expectations and how to confirm the exact specification for your specific van.
Engine oil specifications
To ensure you pick the right oil for your 2012 Transit, pay attention to viscosity, Ford specification, and the oil type. The following details cover the key points you should verify before purchasing oil.
- Viscosity: Most 2.2 Duratorq TDCi engines in the 2012 Transit call for 5W-30. In very hot climates or for certain engine variants, a 5W-40 oil may be acceptable if specified in your manual. Always follow the viscosity recommended for your engine code.
- Ford specification: Look for oil that meets Ford WSS-M2C913-D (or newer equivalents). This ensures compatibility with the engine’s tolerances and long-term protection.
- Oil type: Use a high-quality fully synthetic engine oil (or a synthetic-blend if required by local availability). Premium synthetic 5W-30 is commonly recommended for diesel engines of this era to provide better protection and longer change intervals.
- Oil capacity: The total engine oil capacity for the 2.2L Duratorq TDCi is typically around 6.0–6.5 liters with filter, depending on the exact engine and configuration. Verify for your specific VIN in the manual or service data.
Concluding: Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle’s engine and market, as the 2012 Transit had multiple diesel variants and region-specific requirements. When in doubt, consult your owner's manual or a Ford dealer with your VIN to confirm the exact oil grade, specification, and capacity.
VIN-specific confirmation
Because oil requirements can vary by engine code and emission package, a quick VIN lookup with a dealer or Ford service portal can confirm the exact grade and specification required for your van. This helps avoid mismatches that could affect engine protection and warranty.
Summary
For most 2012 Ford Transit diesels, the recommended oil is 5W-30 fully synthetic meeting Ford WSS-M2C913-D, with a typical capacity around 6.0–6.5 liters including the filter. Always check your owner’s manual or obtain confirmation via your VIN, because engine variants and climate can adjust the exact viscosity (such as 5W-40) or specification.
