What oil should I put in my Ford Transit?

Typically, use a fully synthetic engine oil that meets Ford's specification for your engine and climate; for most modern Transits, 5W-30 is a safe default, but you should confirm the exact grade and spec in the owner's manual or Ford's official guidance.

Know your engine and region

The Ford Transit is sold with several different engines in different markets. The exact oil grade and specification you need depends on your engine type (gasoline, diesel, EcoBlue, EcoBoost) and your climate. Start by identifying your engine code and model year, then check the official Ford documentation or the Ford Owner portal to confirm the required viscosity and specification for your setup.

Common oil grade options you may encounter

The following options cover many modern Transit engines, but the precise requirement varies by engine and region. Always verify your specific model’s guidance before purchasing oil.

• 5W-30 full synthetic (the most widely used default for modern Transits, suitable for many climates and engines)


• 0W-30 or 0W-20 (found in some markets or specific engines; used for certain efficiency-focused configurations)


• 5W-40 (used in hotter climates or where higher-temperature operation is common)

If you are unsure which option applies to your Transit, sticking with 5W-30 full synthetic is a safe starting point, but always verify with your manual or local dealer.

How to confirm the exact specification and perform an oil change

Follow these steps to ensure you use the correct oil and complete a proper change:

1. Check your engine type, model year, and region in the owner's manual or on the vehicle’s VIN plate under the hood.


2. Look up the recommended oil grade and specification for your exact engine and market (Ford specifications and API/ACEA guidelines as applicable).


3. Choose oil that meets the specified grade, ideally a full synthetic, and verify the viscosity matches what Ford requires for your climate.


4. When changing oil, replace the oil filter and use a new drain plug gasket if required; properly collect and dispose of used oil.


5. After the change, start the engine, check for leaks, and use the dipstick to verify the oil level is within the recommended range after a short idle and a few minutes of settling.

Following these steps helps ensure you select the correct oil and maintain engine protection and efficiency. If in doubt, have a Ford-certified technician confirm the specification for your specific Transit.

Region-specific notes

Europe and EcoBlue diesel engines

In Europe and other regions where EcoBlue diesels are common, the Transit generally uses a fully synthetic oil in the mid-range viscosity family (commonly around 5W-30) that meets Ford’s specification for the engine. Climate and driving conditions can influence the exact grade, so verify with the manual or a local dealer.

North America and petrol/diesel variants

In North America, engines such as the EcoBoost petrol and applicable diesels typically require a high-quality synthetic oil around 5W-30, with exact Ford-spec requirements outlined in the owner’s manual. Regional variations apply, so always confirm the precise grade and spec for your year and engine.

Summary

For a Ford Transit, the safest course is to use a fully synthetic oil that meets the specific Ford specification for your engine and climate, with 5W-30 being the common default for many modern configurations. Always verify the exact viscosity and specification in your owner's manual or through Ford’s official resources, as engines and markets differ. If you’re unsure, consult a Ford-certified technician or your local dealer to confirm the right oil for your particular Transit.

What kind of oil does a 2016 Ford Transit take?

STP High Mileage Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-20 5 Quart
Notes: Full synthetic high mileage. 5W-20.

What kind of oil does a Ford Transit van take?

Mobil 1 – Extended Performance 5W-30 High Mileage Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 Quart (Part No. 15021)

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 2019 Ford Transit 250 take?

The 2019 Ford Transit 250 requires either 5W-20 (for the 3.7L V6 gas engine) or 5W-40 (for the 3.2L diesel engine) motor oil. For the 3.7L engine, 0W-20 can be used in extremely cold climates, and it's important to use an oil that meets the specified Ford specification (WSS-M2C945-A or WSS-M2C945-B). For the 3.2L diesel, use 5W-40 oil meeting the API CJ-4 and WSS-M2C171-E specifications. 
For the 3.7L V6 gasoline engine:

• Standard viscosity: 5W-20
• Extreme cold climate viscosity: 0W-20 (below -22∘negative 22 raised to the composed with power−22∘F or -30∘negative 30 raised to the composed with power−30∘C)
• Ford specification: WSS-M2C945-A or WSS-M2C945-B
• Capacity: Approximately 6 quarts (with filter) 

For the 3.2L L5 turbo diesel engine:

• Standard viscosity: 5W-40
• Ford specification: WSS-M2C171-E
• API specification: API CJ-4
• Capacity: Approximately 12 quarts (with filter)