What type of oil does a Ford Taurus need?

Most Ford Taurus models require SAE 5W-20 synthetic oil. This is the standard recommendation for the majority of Taurus engines, but always verify for your exact year and engine code.

The Taurus has spanned several generations with different engines, so oil specifications can vary. To be sure, consult your owner's manual, check under-hood labels or the oil-filler cap, and use Ford’s official resources or a trusted dealer to confirm the precise grade and capacity for your specific vehicle.

Engine variants and official specs

Because the Taurus was offered with multiple engines across model years, the exact oil specification can differ. The most reliable way to know your model’s requirement is to reference the engine code and year in the manual or on the vehicle’s labels. The following steps help you verify the exact specification for your car:

• Look in the owner's manual under the Lubrication/Oil section for the recommended grade (for example, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30).


• Check the oil-fill cap for any grade marking (some caps show the exact viscosity required).


• Inspect the under-hood label or the driver’s door jamb sticker that lists engine codes and oil specifications.


• Use Ford's official service site or contact the dealer with your VIN to pull the exact spec for your engine.


• If you are in a very hot climate or plan heavy towing, confirm whether 5W-30 is an acceptable alternative per your manual or dealer guidance.

By following these steps, you ensure you’re using the correct grade and capacity for your Taurus, reducing engine wear and maintaining performance.

Oil change intervals and capacity

Oil-change intervals and capacity depend on the engine and the oil type. With modern synthetic oils, Ford typically recommends longer intervals under normal driving, often up to around 7,500 miles, while severe driving conditions or conventional oil may require more frequent changes. Always rely on the vehicle’s oil-life monitor and the owner’s manual for precise guidance.

Oil capacity varies by engine, generally falling in the mid-single-digit quart range depending on which Taurus you own (including the filter). For exact numbers, consult the manual or your service advisor.

Choosing between synthetic and conventional oil

Ford’s modern Taurus engines are designed to perform optimally with synthetic or synthetic-blend oils, which offer better protection, temperature stability, and longer change intervals. Conventional oil is typically not the preferred option for newer Taurus models unless specifically approved in the manual or by a dealer, particularly under extreme conditions.

Summary

In most cases, the Ford Taurus requires SAE 5W-20 synthetic oil, with 5W-30 as a potential alternative in certain climates or conditions per the manual. Always verify the exact specification for your year and engine code using the owner's manual, labels on the vehicle, or Ford’s official resources, and follow the recommended change intervals based on driving conditions.

What kind of oil does a 2015 Ford Taurus take?

A 2015 Ford Taurus takes either SAE 5W-20 or SAE 5W-30 motor oil, depending on the engine, and it should be either full synthetic or a synthetic blend. The 3.5L V6 engine typically uses 5W-20, while the 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo may use 5W-30. The vehicle owner's manual or oil cap will confirm the exact type needed for your specific engine.
 
Engine oil specifications

• For the 3.5L V6 engine: Use SAE 5W-20 full synthetic motor oil. The capacity is approximately 6 quarts when changing the filter. 
• For the 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine: Use SAE 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil. The capacity is about 5.7 quarts with a filter change. 

How to confirm

• Check the owner's manual: This is the most accurate source for your vehicle's specific requirements. 
• Look at the oil cap: The correct viscosity grade is often printed directly on the oil fill cap. 

What type of oil goes in a Ford Taurus?

6 liters 5W-30 Ford Taurus engine oil and oil filter for 2010-2019 3.5L EcoBoost V6 turbo gasoline engines.

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 oil does a 2010 Taurus take?

STP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-20 5 Quart.