What oil do I put in my Ford Transit van?
Choosing the right oil for your Ford Transit van is crucial for maintaining its performance, longevity, and fuel efficiency. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ve seen how using the correct oil can make all the difference in keeping your vehicle running smoothly. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of selecting the right oil for your Ford Transit van.
Why Choosing the Right Oil Matters
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps regulate engine temperature. Using the wrong oil can lead to increased wear and tear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine damage over time. Ford Transit vans, like all vehicles, have specific oil requirements that must be met to ensure optimal performance.
Understanding Your Ford Transit’s Oil Requirements
The type of oil your Ford Transit requires depends on its engine type and model year. Here are some general guidelines:
- Ford Transit with Gasoline Engines: Most gasoline-powered Ford Transit vans require synthetic oil with a viscosity of 5W-20 or 5W-30. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact specification.
- Ford Transit with Diesel Engines: Diesel engines typically require synthetic oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 that meets Ford’s WSS-M2C913-D specification or equivalent. Again, consult your owner’s manual for confirmation.
- High-Mileage Vans: If your Ford Transit has high mileage, consider using high-mileage synthetic oil. These oils contain additives designed to reduce leaks and improve engine performance in older vehicles.
How to Check Your Owner’s Manual
Your Ford Transit’s owner’s manual is the ultimate authority on what oil to use. It provides detailed information about the recommended oil type, viscosity, and any specific certifications the oil must meet. If you’ve misplaced your manual, you can often find a digital version on Ford’s official website or by contacting your local Ford dealership.
Tips for Changing Your Oil
Once you’ve identified the correct oil for your Ford Transit, follow these tips to ensure a successful oil change:
- Warm up the engine slightly before draining the oil. This helps the oil flow out more easily.
- Use a high-quality oil filter that meets Ford’s specifications.
- Dispose of used oil responsibly by taking it to a recycling center or an auto shop that accepts used oil.
- Reset the oil change indicator on your dashboard after completing the oil change.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re unsure about the type of oil to use or don’t feel comfortable changing the oil yourself, don’t hesitate to visit a trusted auto repair shop. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in oil changes and can ensure your Ford Transit gets the care it needs. With years of experience and a commitment to quality service, we’re here to help keep your van running at its best.
Conclusion
Using the right oil for your Ford Transit van is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the correct specifications, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re always ready to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs. Drive safe and keep your van in top shape!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter what oil I put in my van?
Using the wrong oil can also cause your engine to become clogged with sludge, which can reduce its efficiency, and cause it to run less smoothly. The wrong motor oil can also cause your engine to leak. Check your owner's manual to find out what type of oil is recommended for your car.
What kind of oil does a Ford Transit van take?
Oil Grade: SEOB4
| Viscosity: | 5W-30 (Above -29°C) - To improve cold start in extreme climates where the ambient temperature is -22 F (-30 C) or below use 0W-30 oil meeting WSS-M2C963-A1. |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 6 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 20 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
How much oil does a 2016 Ford Transit-350 3.2 take?
12.0 qt
Capacities and Specifications - 3.2L Power Stroke Diesel
| Item | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Engine lubrication system — including the oil filter | 12.0 qt (11.4 L) |
| Engine lubrication system — excluding the oil filter | 11.6 qt (11 L) |
| Engine oil top-up — raise the level on the dipstick from minimum to maximum | 2.6 qt (2.5 L) |
Is 5W30 or 10W30 better for high mileage?
Using a Higher Oil Viscosity in High-Mileage Cars
An engine's life began to deteriorate rather rapidly around 100,000 miles, and so to increase the oil pressure, high-mileage car owners would use a higher oil viscosity such as 10w40 or 20w50.
What oil does Ford recommend?
Ford Oil Type Recommended by the Manufacturer
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. You can choose another brand of oil, but it must meet Ford's standards for quality.
How do I know what oil to put in my van?
The easiest way to find out what engine oil your car needs is to check your vehicle handbook – which is usually kept in the glove compartment. It should list the specific type of oil, the appropriate viscosity, and the necessary volume of oil for your engine.
What oil does a 2012 Ford Transit take?
SAE 5W/30
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20?
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.
What oil is best for a Ford van?
Ford Motorcraft® A5 5W-30 has been developed to meet the specific requirements of Ford cars and vans aged 4 years and over.
What kind of oil does a 2016 Ford Transit 350 take?
FRAM – Full Synthetic 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 3 Engine Oil: 5 Quart (Part No. F930-5QT)
