What oil do I use for my Ford Focus?

Typically, you should use a full-synthetic engine oil that meets Ford’s specifications and matches your Focus’s engine and climate. For many modern Focus models, that means a 5W-20 or 5W-30 viscosity, but the exact requirement depends on your year and engine. Always verify with your owner's manual or the oil cap on the engine.

Identify your exact engine and model year

Use this guide to determine the right oil for your specific Focus configuration. The following steps help you pinpoint the correct viscosity and Ford specification.

• Find the model year and engine code from your vehicle registration, the owner’s manual, or the engine bay label near the hood hinges or engine cover.


• Check the owner’s manual for the recommended viscosity (for example, 5W-20 or 5W-30) and the Ford specification code your engine requires.


• Look at the oil filler cap on the engine; many caps list the required viscosity and sometimes the spec code as a quick reference.


• Note whether your Focus is petrol (gasoline) or diesel, as diesel engines often have different oil grades and spec requirements.


• If you can’t locate the manual, contact a Ford dealer or use Ford’s official service resources with your VIN to confirm the exact specification.

Following these steps ensures you select the correct oil for your particular Focus configuration.

Common oil options for Ford Focus engines

Here are typical viscosity ranges and the types of oil commonly compatible with many Focus engines. Always cross-check with your manual or dealer, as there are regional differences.

• 5W-20 synthetic: Widely recommended for many modern petrol engines in Europe and North America for fuel efficiency and protection in moderate climates.


• 5W-30 full-synthetic: Common for turbocharged or higher-load variants and for hotter climates; provides strong protection across temperatures.


• 5W-40 synthetic: Used in some diesel variants or high-load conditions; good protection in warmer conditions.


• 0W-20 synthetic: In some markets, Ford specifies this for certain engines to optimize fuel economy; only use if your engine requires it.

Consult the exact specification for your engine to confirm whether 0W-20, 5W-20, 5W-30, or 5W-40 is required and whether full synthetic is mandated.

Maintenance and oil change tips

In addition to choosing the right viscosity, follow these best practices to maximize engine health and oil life.

• Use the correct oil specification: Look for the Ford WSS specification codes that match your engine. Do not rely on viscosity alone if the spec differs.


• Change oil and filter at the intervals recommended in the manual (often every 5,000–10,000 miles or 6–12 months for synthetic oils, depending on driving conditions).


• Use a high-quality oil filter and ensure the drain plug and sealing washer are in good condition during changes.


• For engines with extended oil-change intervals, consider maintenance reminders, service bulletins, or dealer recommendations for any spec updates or changes.

Regular maintenance with the correct oil helps keep your Focus running smoothly and preserves its longevity.

Summary

To choose the right oil for your Ford Focus, identify your exact model year and engine, then consult the owner’s manual or Ford’s official resources for the correct viscosity and Ford specification. While many Focus engines use 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil, the precise requirement varies by engine and market. Verify the specification on the oil cap or in your manual, and follow the recommended change intervals for best results.

Can I put 5W-30 in my Ford Focus?

Redex 5W-30 Fully Synthetic Oil is safe to use with a range of Ford engines. It provides outstanding performance and protection, helping to maintain fuel-injected, multi valve and turbo-charged engine types. Using fully synthetic oil in your Ford car can bring a range of benefits.

What type of oil goes in a Ford Focus?

The recommended Ford Focus oil type is 5W-20, but you should always check your owner's manual or the oil fill cap for the specific viscosity required for your model and year. Some older models might recommend a different viscosity, like 5W-30, or a thicker alternative like 10W-30 for older engines showing oil consumption issues. Using the correct oil ensures proper engine lubrication and longevity.
 
To determine the exact oil type for your Ford Focus

• Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for your vehicle's specific requirements. 
• Look at the oil fill cap: The correct viscosity grade is often printed directly on the cap. 
• Consider your climate: In very cold climates, a different oil, such as 0W-20, might be recommended for better cold starts. 

General recommendations

• Use a high-quality oil: The Ford Motorcraft brand is designed to meet Ford's standards, but other high-quality synthetic or conventional oils meeting the correct specification are also suitable. 
• Pay attention to oil capacity: The 2018 Ford Focus 2.0L, for example, has an oil capacity of 4.5 quarts. Be sure to check your manual for the correct amount. 

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 for a 2015 Ford Focus?

For a 2015 Ford Focus, use 5W-20 viscosity motor oil, either a full synthetic or synthetic blend. Ford recommends using its Motorcraft brand, but other brands that meet Ford's specifications are also suitable. Always check the oil fill cap or your owner's manual for the exact recommendation. 
Oil specifications

• Viscosity: 5W-20
• Type: Synthetic blend or full synthetic (both are acceptable, though Ford's factory fill is a synthetic blend)
• Ford Recommendation: Motorcraft brand
• Other options: High-mileage versions are available for engines with more than 75,000 miles. 

Additional tips

• Check the owner's manual: Always refer to your owner's manual or the oil fill cap for the most accurate recommendation. 
• Oil capacity: A 2015 Ford Focus typically takes about 4.5 quarts with a filter change, but double-check the level after refilling.