What oil does Ford use from the factory?
Ford typically ships new vehicles with Motorcraft-branded engine oil that matches the engine’s specification, most often a 5W-20 synthetic blend for many gasoline engines in North America, with 5W-30 required for some other engines and climates. Always verify the exact oil type and viscosity for your specific model in the owner's manual or with a Ford dealer.
Understanding the factory-fill oil is important not only for initial service but for warranty coverage and long-term engine health. The exact oil specification Ford uses is driven by engine design, climate, and market, so there is no single oil that covers every Ford vehicle. This article breaks down what you’re likely to see, how to confirm the right oil for your car, and why the factory fill matters.
Understanding Ford's Factory Fill by Engine
Most Ford engines that power cars and light trucks in North America are filled at the factory with Motorcraft oil that meets Ford's specification. The exact viscosity depends on engine design and climate. Here is a quick guide to typical factory fills you might encounter on new Fords:
- Most gasoline engines: Motorcraft 5W-20 synthetic blend (or full synthetic where specified by Ford for the engine).
- Some turbocharged or larger displacement engines and cold-weather applications: Motorcraft 5W-30 full synthetic (as specified by Ford for the engine).
- Hybrid or efficiency-focused powertrains: Motorcraft 0W-20 or 0W-20 synthetic, depending on model and year.
Concluding note: The factory-fill is chosen to match the engine’s design and climate, and it can vary by model year and market. Always verify with your owner’s manual or a dealer for the exact specification that applies to your vehicle.
How to Confirm the Right Oil for Your Ford
To ensure you’re using the correct oil after purchase or during routine maintenance, consult official sources and the vehicle’s labeling. The steps below help you confirm the precise oil specification for your Ford model.
- Check the owner’s manual for the recommended oil viscosity and type for your exact engine.
- Inspect the under-hood oil fill cap and any vehicle-specific stickers (often indicating the recommended grade, such as 5W-20 or 5W-30).
- Use Ford’s official resources or contact a dealer to verify any engine-specific requirements, especially if your vehicle has a unique powertrain or region-specific specification.
Practical takeaway: Using the Ford-recommended grade and oil type helps protect warranty coverage and engine longevity, and ensures optimal performance across operating conditions.
Notes for DIY Maintainers and Service Providers
When servicing, choose the exact Motorcraft oil grade Ford specifies for your engine. While many models use a 5W-20 synthetic blend as the standard factory fill, some engines or climates may require 5W-30 full synthetic or another specification. Deviating from the recommended oil can affect fuel economy, engine wear, and warranty terms.
Summary
Ford’s factory oil is not universal; it is engine- and market-specific. The most common scenario in many Ford cars is a 5W-20 synthetic blend as the factory fill, with 5W-30 full synthetic used for certain engines and climates. Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle via the owner's manual or a Ford dealer to ensure you use the correct oil for the long-term health of your engine.
What brand of oil does Ford use from the factory?
Motorcraft®
Ford recommends specific Motorcraft® engine oil types that vary by your vehicle and engine.
What engine oil do Ford recommend?
Ford recommends full synthetic motor oil for most modern vehicles, commonly using grades like 5W-20, 5W-30, or 0W-20. The exact type depends on the specific model, engine, and year, so always check your owner's manual for the precise recommendation, which will be listed under the "Capacities and Specifications" section.
Common Ford oil types
- 0W-20: Increasingly common for the newest Ford models, especially hybrids and fuel-efficient vehicles.
- 5W-20: A widely recommended synthetic oil for many Ford engines.
- 5W-30: Also frequently recommended, particularly for newer or higher-performance models.
- 5W-50: Sometimes recommended for specific high-performance applications like track-ready models.
- 10W-30: May be recommended for certain older models or diesel engines.
How to find the right oil for your vehicle
- Check the owner's manual: This is the most important step to ensure you use the correct oil. Look for the "Capacities and Specifications" section.
- Consider the oil type: Most modern Fords benefit from full synthetic oil for better protection and performance.
- Consult a professional: If you are unsure, a Ford dealership service center can confirm the specific oil needed for your vehicle.
What oil does Ford Service use?
Ford dealerships use a bulk oil that meets Ford's specifications, most commonly Motorcraft synthetic blend, but may use other oils depending on the vehicle and a customer's specific request. Motorcraft is Ford's own brand, and while it is often a synthetic blend, some modern vehicles may require or benefit from full synthetic, so it's best to check the owner's manual for specific requirements, according to Superior Ford.
What kind of oil is used
- Motorcraft: Dealers typically use Motorcraft oil, which is Ford's own brand. This can be a synthetic blend or full synthetic, depending on the vehicle and engine specifications.
- Bulk oil: Many dealerships use bulk oil that meets Ford's specifications, which can sometimes be a less expensive alternative than Motorcraft brand in bottles.
- Synthetic blend: Ford's recommended minimum requirement for many vehicles is a synthetic blend.
- Full synthetic: Some modern vehicles, especially those with specific engine designs, may require or recommend full synthetic oil for optimal performance and protection.
What to do
- Check your owner's manual: Always consult your owner's manual for the correct oil type and weight for your specific vehicle.
- Ask your service advisor: When you take your car to the dealership for an oil change, ask your service advisor what kind of oil they will be using.
- Request specific oil: If you have a preference for a specific type of oil, such as full synthetic, be sure to request it when you schedule your service.
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.
