What oil brand is recommended for Ford?
Ford’s official guidance centers on Motorcraft motor oil as the recommended brand. While Motorcraft is the factory brand, many third-party oils that meet Ford’s specifications are also suitable.
In practice, you should use the oil that meets Ford’s specification for your vehicle’s engine and year, and check your owner’s manual or the oil-filler cap for the exact viscosity and spec. This article explains which brands count as approved and how to choose the right oil.
Ford-recommended brands and specs
To help you navigate brand choices, here is a concise guide to what Ford officially endorses and what to look for on the label.
- Motorcraft motor oil is the officially recommended option by Ford and is designed to meet Ford engine specifications.
- Other reputable brands are acceptable if their products meet Ford’s specification for your engine and year. Always confirm the exact specification (Ford WSS-M2Cxxx) and the correct viscosity listed in your owner’s manual or on the oil cap.
In short, use Motorcraft when possible, or any brand that explicitly meets Ford’s spec and the correct viscosity for your engine. If you’re unsure, ask your dealer or consult the manual for the exact spec required by your Ford model.
Choosing the right viscosity and specification
Viscosity choices vary by model, climate, and engine type. Most modern Ford vehicles use 5W-20 or 5W-30, but some engines require other grades. Always follow the specification that appears in your owner's manual or on the engine oil fill cap.
Practical steps to verify oil compatibility
When shopping for oil, look for the following cues on the label to ensure compatibility with a Ford engine.
- Exact Ford specification printed on the bottle (for example, WSS-M2C930-A or an equivalent Ford specification).
- Correct viscosity for your engine as specified by Ford (commonly 5W-20 or 5W-30 for many modern Ford engines).
- Brand credibility and product line that are designed for gasoline engines and meet the specification for your model year.
Following these checks helps ensure you’re using oil that will protect the engine and maintain warranty coverage where applicable.
Summary
Ford officially recommends Motorcraft motor oil as the brand of choice. However, any reputable oil that meets Ford’s specifications and the correct viscosity for your engine is acceptable. Always verify the exact specification on the label and in your owner's manual, and when in doubt, consult a Ford dealer or service professional.
Why does Ford recommend Motorcraft oil?
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.
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 OEM brand does Ford use?
Motorcraft
In fact, Motorcraft is the official parts brand of Ford and has been since its inception in the 1950s. Ford used Autolite as its parts manufacturer for a brief period in the 1960s. Ford owns Motorcraft.
Is Valvoline Ford approved?
No matter which American car brand you drive, Valvoline full-synthetic ATF is officially licensed and approved by General Motors and recommended by Stellantis and Ford, ensuring smooth shifting and enhanced protection for longer than conventional fluids.
