What type of oil for a Ford Taurus?
The majority of Ford Taurus models use 5W-20 engine oil, in either synthetic blend or full synthetic form. Confirm the exact grade for your specific year and engine in the owner's manual or through Ford's official service information.
Oil options and engine compatibility
Different Taurus generations and engines have slightly different requirements. The standard viscosity you’ll encounter is 5W-20, but some engines or climates may call for 5W-30. The following overview highlights the common options you’ll encounter and why they matter.
- 5W-20 synthetic blend — The default choice for many Taurus engines, offering good protection and fuel efficiency across a wide temperature range.
- 5W-20 full synthetic — Preferred by many owners for maximum protection, especially under higher-load or higher-temperature conditions.
- 5W-30 — Used by some Taurus engines or in hotter climates where a slightly thicker oil helps maintain oil pressure and protection.
Bottom line: For most Taurus models, 5W-20 is the standard starting point. Move to 5W-30 only if your manual or Ford’s service guidance specifies it for your engine and climate.
How to determine the exact oil specification for your Taurus
To avoid guessing, follow these steps to confirm the right viscosity and specification for your specific vehicle.
- Consult the owner's manual for your model year and engine. This is the definitive source for the correct oil grade.
- Check the under-hood label near the oil filler cap or the oil-fill label for the recommended viscosity.
- If the manual isn’t available, use Ford’s official service site or your VIN to pull the factory-recommended oil specification.
- Ask a dealer or a qualified mechanic if you’re still unsure, providing your VIN to ensure accuracy.
Following these steps helps ensure you use oil that meets the engine’s design requirements and avoids potential warranty or performance issues.
Special cases: Taurus SHO and EcoBoost variants
Performance-oriented or EcoBoost-equipped Tauruses may have specific recommendations, particularly under extreme temperatures or heavy duty use. When in doubt, verify the exact grade and specification for your exact model year and engine configuration via the owner's manual or a Ford service advisor.
Summary
In most cases, plan on using 5W-20 engine oil for a Ford Taurus, with either synthetic blend or full synthetic options depending on your engine and climate. 5W-30 may be appropriate in certain engines or hot environments. Always verify the correct oil grade and specification for your vehicle by checking the owner's manual, the under-hood labels, or Ford’s official service resources using your VIN. Using the recommended oil helps ensure proper protection, performance, and longevity.
What kind of oil does a 2013 Ford Taurus take?
The oil type for a 2013 Ford Taurus is typically 5W-20 full synthetic, although some engines may require 5W-30. It is essential to check your owner's manual to confirm the specific viscosity and any other specifications, as it can vary by engine type and build date. The oil capacity with a filter change is about 6 quarts, but you should always check the oil level after refilling.
Oil viscosity and type
- 5W-20: This is the most common recommendation, often specified as full synthetic.
- 5W-30: This is also a common recommendation, particularly for the 2.0L EcoBoost engine.
- Synthetic vs. Conventional: Ford highly recommends full synthetic oil because it provides better protection and longer intervals between oil changes.
Capacity and filter
- Capacity: Approximately 6 quarts of oil are needed when changing the oil and filter, but the exact amount can vary, so it's crucial to check the dipstick after filling.
- Filter: A Motorcraft FL-500-S is a common oil filter for this model.
Important considerations
- Owner's manual: Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate information regarding the correct oil type, viscosity, and capacity for your specific engine.
- Ford standards: If you choose an oil from a different brand, ensure it meets Ford's quality standards, such as those listed in the owner's manual or on the oil bottle.
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 type of oil does a Ford Taurus take?
A Ford Taurus generally takes 5W-20 motor oil, but the specific type depends on the engine and climate. For extreme cold temperatures (below $-22$°F or $-30$°C), use 0W-20 oil that meets the required specifications, such as WSS-M2C947-B1. Always check your owner's manual for the exact recommendation for your model year.
For most conditions
- Viscosity: 5W-20
- Oil type: Synthetic or synthetic blend is often recommended for improved performance and protection, especially in newer models.
For extreme cold (below $-22$°F / $-30$°C)
- Viscosity: 0W-20
- Specification: Must meet manufacturer specifications, such as WSS-M2C947-B1.
How to be sure
- Consult your owner's manual: This is the most accurate source for your specific vehicle's needs.
- Check the oil cap: The recommended viscosity is often printed on the oil cap.
What kind of oil for a 2007 Ford Taurus?
The recommended oil for a 2007 Ford Taurus is 5W-20 motor oil. You will need 4.5 quarts of oil for an oil and filter change.
- Viscosity: 5W-20
- Capacity: 4.5 quarts with filter
- Note: Always consult your owner's manual to confirm the correct specifications for your specific vehicle.
