What type of oil does a Ford E350 take?

The most common answer is that most gasoline Ford E-350 vans use 5W-20 engine oil (synthetic blend or full synthetic), while diesel versions typically require a thicker oil such as 5W-40. However, the exact specification depends on the engine and model year, so you should check your owner's manual or the under-hood label to be sure.

Understanding the exact oil requirement for your vehicle

Because the E-350 has been sold with several different engines across many years, the oil viscosity and specification can vary. Use this guide to identify the right oil for your specific configuration, then always confirm with Ford’s official documentation or a dealer if in doubt.

Gasoline engines (4.6L, 5.4L, 6.8L)

Before listing typical viscosities, note that the exact requirement can depend on climate and service conditions. The following offers a general reference for common gasoline E-350 setups.

• Common recommendation: SAE 5W-20 (synthetic blend or full synthetic) for most climates and usage.


• Alternative in hot climates or heavy-use conditions: SAE 5W-30, if specified in your manual or by a Ford service advisor.

In practice, owners frequently run 5W-20, with 5W-30 as a backup option when the manual allows it or in very hot environments.

Diesel engines (6.0L Power Stroke, if equipped)

Diesel E-350 variants have different oil needs than the gasoline models. The typical guidance is a thicker synthetic or synthetic blend designed for diesel engines.

• Common recommendation: SAE 5W-40 (synthetic blend or full synthetic) for many diesel configurations.


• Some older or alternative diesel setups may have different specifications; always verify.

As with gasoline engines, confirm the exact spec for your vehicle year and engine from the manual or a Ford service professional.

How to confirm the exact oil specification for your E-350

To be certain you’re using the correct oil, take these steps:

• Check the owner’s manual for the exact viscosity and specification for your engine and year.


• Look at the under-hood information label near the engine or oil cap for the recommended oil type.


• If in doubt, contact a Ford dealer or certified mechanic with your VIN to pull the precise spec for your vehicle.

Confirming the exact specification is crucial, as Ford has updated recommendations across generations and different powertrains.

Summary

For most gasoline Ford E-350 models, SAE 5W-20 is the standard recommendation (synthetic blend or full synthetic), with 5W-30 as an acceptable alternative in some climates or conditions per the manual. Diesel versions typically require 5W-40. Because engine options and years vary, always verify the exact oil specification in your owner’s manual or via a Ford dealer using your VIN. Using the correct oil helps protect the engine and maintain performance.

What kind of oil does a 1997 Ford e350 take?

Mobil 1 – Extended Performance 5W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, Prevents Leaks, 5 Quart (Part No. 15020)

How many quarts of oil does a Ford E350 take?

The number of quarts of oil a Ford E-350 takes varies by engine, but models with the 5.4L V8 typically require 6 quarts, while the 6.8L V10 takes about 6 quarts. The 7.3L V8 requires 8 quarts, and some older or different engines, like the 5.4L with the "AHR" engine code, may require a much larger capacity of 28.7 to 30.7 quarts. Always check your owner's manual or the vehicle's oil filler cap for the precise oil capacity and recommended viscosity for your specific year and engine. 

• For most 5.4L V8 and 6.8L V10 engines: Approximately 6 quarts of oil. 
• For 7.3L V8 engines: Approximately 8 quarts of oil. 
• For some older or specific engines: Some models can require a significantly larger capacity, such as 28.7 to 30.7 quarts. 
• Always confirm: The most accurate information will be on your owner's manual or the oil filler cap under the hood. 

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 Ford E350 use?

Mobil 1 – Advanced 5W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 Quart (Part No. 14991)