What oil do I use for a Ford Transit van?

For most Ford Transit vans built in recent years, you should use a fully synthetic 5W-30 engine oil that meets Ford's latest specifications (WSS-M2C934-B or newer) and, where applicable, ACEA C3. In very cold climates, 0W-30 can be acceptable if specified in your manual. This article explains how to choose the right oil based on engine type and model year, with practical steps to ensure you’re using the correct product.

Identify Your Engine and Model Year

Transit models have run different engines across generations and regions. The recommended oil depends on your specific engine code, emission system, and climate. The sections below cover common configurations and what to use.

Modern EcoBlue 2.0L Diesel (2016–Present)

The EcoBlue 2.0L diesels in most markets require a fully synthetic 5W-30 oil that meets Ford's latest specification (WSS-M2C934-B/C) and is low SAPS (ACEA C3) due to diesel particulate filter systems. Some markets may also accept 0W-30 for extreme cold. Always confirm the exact spec in your owner's manual or via Ford’s service resources.

Common oil options you’ll see recommended:

• 5W-30 fully synthetic meeting Ford WSS-M2C934-B/C and ACEA C3


• 0W-30 fully synthetic meeting the same Ford spec for cold climates


• 5W-40 fully synthetic in certain markets or service bulletins if specified

Conclusion: For EcoBlue engines, the standard choice is 5W-30 synthetic that meets Ford WSS-M2C934-B/C and ACEA C3. If you operate in very cold weather, 0W-30 may be acceptable when specified in your manual. Always verify the exact requirements for your vehicle.

Older 2.2 TDCi / 2.0 Di and Other Pre-EcoBlue Diesels (approx. 2012–2015 era)

These older diesel engines typically use a synthetic 5W-30 oil that meets the manufacturer’s specification, with regional variations. The exact Ford specification might be listed as WSS-M2C913-C or a similar standard, but many owners use a high-quality 5W-30 synthetic that meets the engine’s spec. Always check your service manual for the precise requirement.

Options to consider:

• 5W-30 fully synthetic meeting the engine’s Ford spec (or OEM equivalent)


• 0W-30 in cold climates if permitted by the manual

Conclusion: Confirm the exact specification for your engine code. In practice, 5W-30 synthetic is a common and safe choice for older Transit diesels too, but regional and model-year differences can apply.

Gasoline / EcoBoost Variants (where applicable in your market)

Gasoline or EcoBoost Transit engines also generally require a 5W-30 fully synthetic oil that meets the relevant Ford specification. In colder climates, 0W-30 may be recommended. As with diesels, verify the exact specification for your engine and region in the owner's manual.

Common options:

• 5W-30 synthetic meeting Ford spec


• 0W-30 synthetic for cold climates, if approved by Ford

Conclusion: The guideline for gasoline/EcoBoost variants aligns with diesels: use a 5W-30 synthetic that meets Ford’s current specification, with 0W-30 as an option only if your manual allows it.

Practical steps to choose and change your oil

Before performing an oil change or buying oil, use these steps to ensure you select the correct product for your Transit:

1. Check the owner’s manual or the engine bay tag for the exact oil grade and specification.


2. Match the specification to a reputable fully synthetic oil that meets Ford WSS-M2C934-B/C or the most current equivalent.


3. Look for the right viscosity (commonly 5W-30, with 0W-30 for cold climates) and low SAPS if your exhaust after-treatment requires it.


4. Consider climate and driving conditions (short trips, heavy loads, or urban driving can influence oil performance and change intervals).


5. Choose a reputable brand and ensure the product is labeled for the correct engine type (diesel vs. petrol) as appropriate.

Conclusion: Following the manual and using a high-quality synthetic oil that meets Ford’s specifications will help protect the engine and support warranty coverage.

What oil brands are commonly recommended for the Ford Transit?

Ford dealers and owner communities often recommend well-known full-synthetic oils that meet Ford specifications. Brands such as Castrol, Mobil 1, Shell, Valvoline, and Total Quartz offer 5W-30 and 0W-30 options that can meet Ford WSS-M2C934-B/C or its current equivalent. Always verify the exact specification printed on the oil container before purchase.

Conclusion: Use a trusted brand that provides a product labeled to meet Ford’s current specification for your engine and region.

Summary

In summary, for most modern Ford Transit variants the recommended engine oil is a fully synthetic 5W-30 that meets Ford’s current specification (typically WSS-M2C934-B/C) and ACEA C3 for diesel engines. In very cold climates, 0W-30 may be acceptable if your manual permits it. Always refer to your specific owner's manual or contact a Ford dealer to confirm the exact specification for your engine code and market, and choose a high-quality oil from a reputable brand accordingly. Following the manufacturer’s guidance helps protect the engine and maintain warranty coverage.

What kind of oil does a Ford Transit van take?

The Ford Transit requires a specific type of oil, typically a SAE 5W-30 or SAE 5W-20 full synthetic or synthetic blend, depending on the engine and climate. It is crucial to check your owner's manual for the exact specifications, which are often denoted by a Ford WSS-M2C standard, such as WSS-M2C945-A for gasoline engines or WSS-M2C913-D for diesel engines. Using the correct viscosity and specification ensures optimal performance and engine protection.
 
Common oil types by engine

• For gasoline engines:
  • 3.5L engine: Typically uses SAE 5W-30. Some climates may require SAE 5W-20. 
  • 3.7L engine: Usually requires Motorcraft® SAE 5W-20 Premium Synthetic Blend. 
• For diesel engines:
  • 3.0L or 2.0L engines: Use Motorcraft® SAE 5W-30 full synthetic diesel oil. 
• For biodiesel fuel (B6-B20):
  • Diesel engines: Requires SAE 5W-40 API CJ-4 when using biodiesel fuel. 

Important considerations

• Check the owner's manual: Always confirm the exact oil type and specifications for your specific model year and engine by checking the owner's manual. 
• Use quality oil: Use a high-quality, full synthetic or synthetic blend oil that meets the Ford WSS-M2C specification required for your engine. 
• Consider climate: For some engines, the climate can influence the recommended oil viscosity. For example, in extreme cold, a different viscosity might be recommended. 
• Use a quality oil filter: Always use a quality oil filter during an oil change and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation. 
• Monitor oil level: After changing the oil, run the engine briefly and then let it sit for 10-15 minutes before checking the dipstick for the correct level. 

Can I use 5W30 instead of 5W20 in my Ford?

Yes, you can likely use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 in your Ford, especially if it's an older vehicle, as they have similar cold-start viscosity and 5W-30 offers slightly thicker protection at operating temperature. While Ford sometimes recommends 5W-20 for fuel economy, switching to 5W-30 is unlikely to cause harm, particularly in higher-mileage engines, and may provide better protection under stress. 
Key differences

• Cold starts: Both 5W-20 and 5W-30 have the same viscosity (thickness) when the engine is cold. 
• Hot operation: At high temperatures, 5W-30 is thicker than 5W-20, offering a thicker film for protection, especially in high-stress or high-heat conditions. 
• Fuel economy: The switch to 5W-20 in some newer models was largely driven by fuel economy regulations, and many older engines were originally designed for 5W-30. 

What to consider

• Check your owner's manual: The most accurate advice will always be in your vehicle's owner's manual. 
• Engine age and mileage: Older or higher-mileage engines may benefit more from the thicker 5W-30 oil. 
• Driving conditions: If you frequently tow, haul heavy loads, or drive in very hot weather, 5W-30 can provide better protection. 
• Potential downsides: Using a thicker oil may slightly decrease fuel economy. In some specific cases with newer engines, it could potentially lead to a minor increase in noise, so it's always best to start with the manufacturer's recommendation if possible, according to a Reddit post. 

In conclusion, using 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 is generally considered a safe and acceptable alternative for most Ford vehicles.

What kind of oil does a 2016 Ford Transit take?

The 2016 Ford Transit uses SAE 5W-20 oil for most gasoline engines, while the 2.0L Ecoblue diesel (primarily in Europe) uses 0W-30 or 5W-30. Diesel engines with the 3.2L 5-cylinder engine also require a different oil. Always check your owner's manual for the specific oil type for your engine, as different configurations exist. 
Gasoline engines

• Viscosity: SAE 5W-20 is the recommended viscosity for most gasoline engines. 
• Engine type: This applies to engines like the 3.7L V6 and others, but always confirm with your owner's manual. 
• Capacity: The 3.7L V6 gasoline engine typically holds 6 quarts of oil. 

Diesel engines

• 2.0L Ecoblue (Europe): This engine often requires 0W-30 or 5W-30 oil, depending on the specific model and region. 
• 3.2L 5-cylinder: The 3.2L diesel engine requires a different specification, but for the 2016 model, it's important to check your owner's manual for the correct oil and capacity. 

Important considerations

• Check your manual: Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual to confirm the correct oil type and capacity for your specific engine. 
• Oil type: For gasoline engines, a full synthetic oil is a popular and recommended choice. 
• Diesel oil: Diesel engines have specific requirements. Do not use gasoline engine oil in a diesel engine unless the oil is specifically rated for diesel use. 

What kind of oil does a 2019 Ford Transit take?

The 2019 Ford Transit oil type depends on the engine: 5W-20 is used for most gasoline engines, while 5W-40 is specified for the 3.2L Power Stroke diesel engine. For colder climates, some gasoline engines can use 0W-20 instead of 5W-20. Always confirm the exact type with your owner's manual.
 
Engine-specific oil types

• Gasoline engines (Transit Connect 2.0L): Use SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend motor oil. Some extreme cold weather conditions may require SAE 0W-20. 
• 3.2L Power Stroke Diesel (Transit-250): Use SAE 5W-40 full synthetic engine oil, specifically API CJ-4 rated for biodiesel use. 
• Other gasoline engines (e.g., 3.7L): Use SAE 5W-20 synthetic motor oil. 

Important considerations

• Full synthetic vs. blend: The Transit Connect can use a full synthetic or a synthetic blend, but for the diesel, full synthetic is recommended. 
• Check your owner's manual: The most accurate information for your specific vehicle can be found in the owner's manual. 
• Capacity: A standard 2.0L Transit Connect requires about 4.8 quarts of oil, while the 3.2L diesel needs about 12 quarts.