What oil does a Ford Transit Custom take?
The most common answer is 5W-30 fully synthetic engine oil. This article explains how the recommendation varies by engine and year, how to read Ford’s specifications, and practical tips for maintenance.
Engine options and oil requirements
The Transit Custom has evolved through generations, with the main recent engines being the 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel and, in some older versions, the 2.2-liter Duratorq TDCi. While the exact spec can vary by market and model year, the standard guidance is typically 5W-30 fully synthetic oil. Always verify the precise specification for your VIN in your manual or from a Ford dealer.
EcoBlue 2.0L diesel
For EcoBlue 2.0L diesel variants, Ford generally recommends a 5W-30 fully synthetic engine oil that meets Ford specification WSS-M2C934-B or its newer equivalent. Many markets also align with ACEA C3 ratings on the bottle. In very cold climates, some precise variants may call for a 0W-30 formulation; check your owner’s manual for the exact requirement.
Duratorq TDCi 2.2 (older Transit Custom)
Older Duratorq TDCi 2.2 variants typically require a 5W-30 fully synthetic oil that meets Ford specification such as WSS-M2C913-C (or a later Ford equivalent). As with EcoBlue models, the exact specification can change by year and market, so always confirm via your manual or dealer.
Where to find the official specification
To ensure you’re using the correct oil, start with Ford’s official guidance for your vehicle. The following steps help you verify the exact specification for your engine and region:
- Check the owner's manual section on engine oil for the grade (for example, 5W-30) and the Ford specification code (such as WSS-M2C934-B or WSS-M2C913-C).
- Look on the oil filler cap or in the engine bay for the recommended grade and sometimes the Ford specification code.
- Use oils that are OEM-approved or explicitly certified to meet Ford specifications on the bottle label.
- If in doubt, ask a Ford dealer or qualified mechanic to confirm the exact specification for your VIN and engine code.
In any case, always choose a high-quality fully synthetic oil that meets the Ford specification shown for your engine to maintain performance and warranty coverage.
Maintenance tips and intervals
Oil-change intervals for the Transit Custom depend on engine type, driving conditions, and oil quality. Generally, Ford’s service schedule ranges from roughly 12,000 to 18,000 miles (20,000 to 30,000 kilometers) between changes under normal driving, but severe conditions or using older oils can shorten that interval. Always follow the service plan in your owner's manual or your dealer’s recommendations.
Summary
In most Transit Custom models, the recommended oil is 5W-30 fully synthetic. However, the exact Ford specification code (for example WSS-M2C934-B or WSS-M2C913-C) depends on the engine type and year. Always verify with the owner's manual, the engine oil cap, or your Ford dealer to ensure you use the correct oil for your vehicle and maintain warranty coverage. Using OEM-approved oil helps protect the engine and supports optimal performance over time.
