What kind of oil does a 6.7 Ford f250 take?

The 6.7-liter Power Stroke in the Ford F-250 typically uses a 5W-40 synthetic diesel engine oil that meets API CK-4 and Ford’s own specification (WSS-M2C171-F1 or WSS-M2C171-F2). This is the standard recommendation for most model years, but you should verify your exact spec in the owner's manual or with a Ford dealer.

Oil grade and specifications

Below is a concise guide to the oil grade and specifications you should look for when servicing a 6.7L Power Stroke. The following list helps ensure proper lubrication, emissions compatibility, and warranty compliance.

• Oil grade: 5W-40 synthetic diesel engine oil (full synthetic preferred).


• Specification: must meet API CK-4 or newer, and Ford’s WSS-M2C171-F1 or WSS-M2C171-F2 specification, depending on the production year.


• Engine capacity: typically about 15 quarts (including oil filter) for a complete drain and fill.


• Usage note: use oil that is appropriate for a diesel turbocharged engine with a diesel particulate filter (DPF); avoid non-diesel or non-synthetic oils.

Adhering to these standards helps protect the high-pressure fuel system, turbocharger, emissions equipment, and overall engine longevity.

Why the right oil matters

The 6.7L Power Stroke relies on durable lubrication to manage high exhaust temperatures, soot generation, and the stress of heavy towing. Using oil that does not meet CK-4 or Ford’s M2C171 specifications can undermine protection, affect fuel economy, and potentially impact warranty coverage. A high-quality 5W-40 synthetic meeting the correct API and Ford spec is the standard recommendation.

How to confirm the exact oil spec for your truck

If you want to be certain you’re using the correct oil for your specific vehicle, follow these steps. The list below helps you tailor the general guidance to your exact production year and configuration.

1. Check the owner’s manual for the recommended oil grade and engine oil specification for your model year and build date.


2. Look up the Ford WSS-M2C171-F1 or WSS-M2C171-F2 specification, and confirm that the oil you buy meets CK-4 or newer API standards.


3. If you’re unsure, contact a Ford dealer or the customer support line with your VIN to get the precise requirement for your truck.


4. When scheduling service, ask the technician to confirm the oil grade and fill capacity (typically around 15 quarts with filter) for your exact engine and year.

Verification helps ensure you’re using the correct specification across different model years and any changes Ford may implement in service requirements.

Summary

For the Ford F-250 with the 6.7L Power Stroke, the standard oil is 5W-40 synthetic diesel oil that meets API CK-4 and Ford specifications (WSS-M2C171-F1/F2). The usual fill is about 15 quarts, and you should always confirm the exact requirements for your year and build with the owner’s manual or a Ford dealer. Using the correct oil protects the engine, turbo, and emissions equipment, and helps maintain warranty coverage.

What oil does a Ford 6.7 diesel recommend?

The recommended oil for a 6.7 Powerstroke is SAE 10W-30, which meets the Ford spec WSS-M2C171-F1 for normal operation. For severe conditions, such as heavy towing or cold weather, SAE 5W-40 is often recommended. In extremely cold temperatures below -22∘Fnegative 22 raised to the composed with power cap F−22∘𝐹 (-30∘Cnegative 30 raised to the composed with power cap C−30∘𝐶), SAE 0W-40 is suggested. 
Primary recommendation

• SAE 10W-30: The primary recommendation for most conditions, meeting the WSS-M2C171-F1 specification. 

Conditions requiring a different oil

• Severe duty or cold weather: Use SAE 5W-40. This is ideal for frequent towing, high-load situations, or if your truck is operated in colder climates.
• Extreme cold: In temperatures below -22∘Fnegative 22 raised to the composed with power cap F−22∘𝐹 (-30∘Cnegative 30 raised to the composed with power cap C−30∘𝐶), switch to SAE 0W-40. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: Always consult your specific owner's manual for the definitive oil recommendation for your vehicle. 
• Meet specifications: Ensure the oil you choose meets the Ford WSS-M2C171-F1 specification for the best performance and protection. 
• Consider full synthetic: Many owners and experts recommend using a full synthetic oil for better performance, protection, and a wider operating range. 

0:15What Oil Is In Your 6.7 Powerstroke Super Duty?YouTubeBearded Ford Tech · 3y 0:40If you own a Ford 6.7 Power Stroke, choosing the right oil is critical for ...FacebookWhiteface Ford · 9mo 0:39What kind of oil should you run in a power stroke 6.7?InstagramJon Galland | Work Truck Expert · 9mo 0:33Did You Know? - 6.7 L Powerstroke three different types of oil you can useYouTubeFord Boss Me - Auto / Politics / Family · 3y 0:59Best oil weight for 6.7 Powerstroke?YouTubeDS TRUCKS · 1y (function(){
(this||self).Bqpk9e=function(f,d,n,e,k,p){var g=document.getElementById(f);if(g&&(g.offsetWidth!==0||g.offsetHeight!==0)){var l=g.querySelector("div"),h=l.querySelector("div"),a=0;f=Math.max(l.scrollWidth-l.offsetWidth,0);if(d>0&&(h=h.children,a=h[d].offsetLeft-h[0].offsetLeft,e)){for(var m=a=0;m

Can I use 15W-40 in my 6.7 powerstroke?

Yes, you can use 15W-40 in a 6.7 Powerstroke, as long as the temperature is above approximately 20°F, and it's especially recommended for severe duty or when running biodiesel blends. However, the owner's manual and oil cap may recommend 10W-30 for light duty and 5W-40 or 15W-40 for severe duty, and some sources suggest 5W-40 is preferable for severe duty to ensure proper lubrication. 
Key considerations

• Temperature: 15W-40 is suitable for temperatures above 20°F. If you operate in colder climates, you may need to use a 5W-40 or 0W-40 oil for cold starts. 
• Usage: For light-duty service (e.g., normal driving), 10W-30 may be specified, but for severe duty (towing, stop-and-go traffic, or using biodiesel), 15W-40 or 5W-40 is recommended. 
• Manufacturer recommendation: Always check your owner's manual for the specific oil viscosity and Ford's WSS-M2C171-F1 specification. Motorcraft also recommends 15W-40 for use in these engines. 
• Potential risks: Some sources suggest that in very specific circumstances, 15W-40 might have contributed to bearing issues in certain 6.7 Powerstroke engines, possibly due to the oil pump not picking it up as easily as a lighter oil. 
• 5W-40 vs 15W-40: While 15W-40 and 5W-40 have the same viscosity at operating temperature, the "5W" is better for cold-weather starting. If you frequently tow or operate under severe conditions, 5W-40 or even 0W-40 may offer better protection, especially in colder weather. 

Can I run 10W30 in my 6.7 powerstroke?

Folks…the oil cap says 10W-30 or 5W-40 for severe use on all 6.7 Powerstrokes, for a reason. If you look past the temperature chart in the owner's manual and read the words, you'll find that 15W-40 is only acceptable when running biofuel and is not a substitute for 5W-40 under severe conditions.

Should I run full synthetic oil in my 6.7 powerstroke?

For superior cold-weather performance, 0W-40 full synthetic diesel motor oil is the best choice. This multigrade oil benefits the 6.7 Powerstroke in both freezing and hot temperatures.