2017 Ford F150 Oil Filter Location – N – Master Your DIY Oil Change

ByRobert Lozano

For any 2017 Ford F-150 owner, understanding the oil filter location is key to efficient and cost-effective maintenance. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough for locating, removing, and replacing your F-150’s oil filter, ensuring a smooth DIY oil change experience. We’ll cover essential tools, safety measures, and expert tips to keep your truck running reliably.

As a proud 2017 Ford F-150 owner, you know your truck is more than just a vehicle; it’s a workhorse, an adventure companion, and a reliable partner for daily commutes or weekend off-road excursions. Keeping its engine healthy is paramount, and a regular oil change is the simplest, most impactful maintenance you can perform. But where exactly is the 2017 Ford F-150 oil filter location, and what does it take to get the job done right?

Many DIY mechanics and even experienced off-roaders find themselves scratching their heads when tackling their first F-150 oil change. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide from EngineNeeds will demystify the process, providing you with the confidence and knowledge to tackle this crucial maintenance task yourself. We’ll walk you through everything from preparation to proper disposal, ensuring your F-150 continues to deliver peak performance.

Understanding Your 2017 Ford F-150 Oil Filter Location

Knowing the exact 2017 Ford F-150 oil filter location is the first step in a successful oil change. Unlike some vehicles where the filter might be tucked away in an obscure spot, Ford generally designs their trucks with accessibility in mind, though specific placement can vary slightly depending on your engine.

Why Knowing Your Filter’s Spot Matters

Locating the oil filter efficiently saves you time and frustration. It allows you to plan your approach, gather the right tools, and avoid unnecessary messes. A clear understanding of its position also helps you assess if you have enough clearance, especially if you’re working on uneven terrain or with limited garage space.

Proper access prevents damage to surrounding components and ensures you can get the necessary leverage for removal and installation. This foundational knowledge builds confidence for future DIY projects on your F-150.

Common Engine Options and Their Filter Placements

The 2017 Ford F-150 came with several engine options, each with a slightly different oil filter setup:

  • 3.5L EcoBoost V6: This popular engine typically has its oil filter located at the front of the engine, on the passenger side, positioned vertically. It’s usually a spin-on canister type.
  • 2.7L EcoBoost V6: Similar to the 3.5L, the 2.7L EcoBoost also features a spin-on filter, often found towards the front-passenger side, but can be a bit more recessed.
  • 5.0L V8 (Coyote): The venerable 5.0L V8 usually has its spin-on oil filter on the driver’s side of the engine block, often below the exhaust manifold and easily accessible from underneath.
  • 3.3L V6 (Late 2017 models, replacing 3.5L Ti-VCT): For this engine, the filter is typically a spin-on type, usually on the front passenger side, similar to the EcoBoost engines.

Regardless of your engine, the filter will always be mounted to the engine block itself, usually accessible from underneath the truck. Always double-check your owner’s manual for the precise location and recommended filter type for your specific VIN.

Gathering Your Gear: Essential Tools and Supplies

Before you even think about crawling under your truck, having the right tools and supplies makes all the difference. Preparation is key to a smooth and safe oil change.

The Right Oil for Your F-150

Ford specifies a particular oil for your 2017 F-150, which is crucial for engine longevity. Most 2017 F-150 engines require 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic motor oil. The EcoBoost engines, in particular, benefit greatly from full synthetic due to their turbochargers operating at high temperatures. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact viscosity and API service rating (e.g., API SN PLUS or SP) recommended for your engine.

You’ll typically need between 6 and 7 quarts of oil, depending on your engine size. Having an extra quart on hand is always a good idea.

Filter Choices: OEM vs. Aftermarket

When it comes to the oil filter itself, you have options:

  • OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Filters: These are filters designed and manufactured by Ford (Motorcraft brand). They are guaranteed to meet Ford’s specifications and often offer the best fit and filtration performance. Many enthusiasts swear by Motorcraft filters for their F-150s.
  • Aftermarket Filters: Brands like Wix, Mann, K&N, and Purolator offer high-quality alternatives. When choosing an aftermarket filter, ensure it meets or exceeds OEM specifications for filtration efficiency and burst strength. Look for reputable brands and read reviews.

Never compromise on filter quality. A cheap, poorly designed filter can lead to inadequate filtration, reducing engine life.

Safety First: Jack Stands and Personal Protective Equipment

Safety is non-negotiable when working under any vehicle, especially a heavy truck like the F-150. You’ll need:

  • Hydraulic Jack and Jack Stands: Never rely solely on a jack. Always use sturdy jack stands on a flat, level surface. Chock the rear wheels for added stability.
  • Wheel Chocks: Essential for preventing the truck from rolling.
  • Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from dripping oil or debris.
  • Gloves: Nitrile or mechanic’s gloves protect your hands from oil and provide a better grip.
  • Drain Pan: Large enough to hold all the old oil (at least 7-8 quarts capacity).
  • Oil Filter Wrench: A cap-style wrench that fits your specific filter is ideal.
  • Socket Wrench Set: For the drain plug (usually 15mm or 13mm, but verify).
  • Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening the drain plug and new filter to spec, preventing leaks or damage.
  • Funnel: To neatly pour in new oil.
  • Rags or Shop Towels: For inevitable spills.
  • Cardboard or Drop Cloth: To protect your garage floor.
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If you’re out on a trail and need to perform an emergency oil top-off or inspection, always ensure the vehicle is on level ground, the parking brake is engaged, and the engine is cool. For a full oil change in the wilderness, it’s safer to tow to a proper service area. When in doubt, call a licensed professional.

Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing and Replacing Your Oil Filter

Now that you have your tools ready and safety precautions in place, let’s get down to the actual oil change process for your F-150.

Pre-Service Checks and Vehicle Preparation

  1. Warm Up the Engine: Drive your F-150 for 5-10 minutes to warm the oil. Warm oil drains more completely, carrying away more contaminants.
  2. Park on a Level Surface: This is critical for safety and ensuring all the old oil drains.
  3. Engage Parking Brake: Always activate the parking brake.
  4. Chock Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
  5. Lift the Truck Safely: Use your hydraulic jack to lift the front of the truck, then immediately place jack stands under the frame rails. Ensure the truck is stable and secure on the stands. Give it a gentle shake to confirm stability.
  6. Locate the Drain Plug: It’s usually at the lowest point of the oil pan, often near the rear of the engine.

Draining the Old Engine Oil

  1. Position Drain Pan: Place your oil drain pan directly under the drain plug.
  2. Remove Drain Plug: Using the correct socket wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Be prepared for the oil to come out quickly and forcefully. The oil will be hot, so avoid direct contact.
  3. Inspect Drain Plug: While the oil drains, inspect the drain plug and its gasket. Many F-150s use a plastic drain plug that should be replaced with each oil change, or at least every other. If it’s a metal plug, always replace the crush washer/gasket to prevent leaks.
  4. Allow to Drain Completely: Let the oil drain for at least 15-20 minutes. The longer it drains, the more contaminants are removed.
  5. Reinstall Drain Plug: Once draining slows to a drip, clean the area around the drain plug opening. Install the new or inspected drain plug and gasket. Tighten it to the manufacturer’s specified torque (check your manual, typically around 18-20 ft-lbs for plastic plugs, more for metal). Do not overtighten, especially plastic plugs, as this can strip threads or crack the pan.

Locating and Removing the Old Oil Filter

Now, let’s focus on the 2017 Ford F-150 oil filter location. As mentioned, it will be a spin-on canister. Look towards the front-passenger side for EcoBoost engines or the driver’s side for the 5.0L V8, mounted directly to the engine block.

  1. Position Drain Pan Under Filter: Even though the oil pan is drained, residual oil remains in the filter and will spill when removed. Position your drain pan directly underneath the oil filter.
  2. Remove the Old Filter: Use your cap-style oil filter wrench to loosen the filter. Once it’s loose enough to turn by hand, slowly unscrew it. Be careful, as oil will start to drip.
  3. Let it Drain: Allow the old filter to drain into the pan. Once removed, ensure the old filter’s rubber gasket came off with it. Sometimes, the gasket can stick to the engine block, which will cause a severe leak if not removed before installing the new filter.
  4. Clean Mounting Surface: Use a clean rag to wipe down the oil filter mounting surface on the engine block. Ensure it’s free of old oil, dirt, and especially the old gasket.

Installing the New Oil Filter

  1. Prepare New Filter: Apply a thin film of clean, new engine oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter. This helps create a good seal and makes future removal easier.
  2. Prime the Filter (Optional but Recommended): For some applications, filling the new filter partially with fresh oil before installation can help reduce the time the engine runs without oil pressure on startup. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
  3. Install New Filter: Carefully thread the new oil filter onto the engine block by hand. Make sure it’s not cross-threaded.
  4. Tighten the Filter: Once the gasket makes contact with the engine block, tighten the filter by hand another 3/4 to 1 full turn. Some manufacturers specify torque values (typically 10-12 ft-lbs), which you can achieve with a torque wrench and the correct filter socket. Never overtighten the filter, as this can damage the gasket or filter housing, leading to leaks.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Oil Change and Longevity

Beyond the basic steps, these professional insights can elevate your DIY oil change and ensure your F-150’s engine enjoys a long, healthy life.

Don’t Forget the Drain Plug Gasket!

This is a common oversight that leads to frustrating leaks. As mentioned, many 2017 F-150s with EcoBoost engines use a plastic drain plug assembly that should be replaced with every oil change. If your F-150 has a traditional metal drain plug, always use a new crush washer or gasket. These inexpensive parts create a vital seal that prevents oil from seeping out.

A new gasket ensures a tight, leak-free seal without needing excessive torque, which could damage the oil pan threads.

Priming Your New Filter

While not strictly necessary for all vehicles, priming your new oil filter, especially on larger engines or those with vertically mounted filters, can be beneficial. By filling the filter with fresh oil before installation, you reduce the “dry start” time where the engine runs without immediate oil pressure. This minimizes wear on critical engine components during the first few seconds after an oil change.

Be careful not to spill oil when installing a primed filter.

Proper Disposal of Used Oil and Filter

Used engine oil and filters are hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. Never pour them down drains or throw them in the trash. Most auto parts stores and quick-lube shops accept used oil and filters for recycling, often free of charge.

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Transfer the old oil from your drain pan into empty new oil containers or a dedicated recycling container. Place the old filter in a sealed plastic bag to prevent drips during transport.

Post-Change Checks and Monitoring

  1. Lower the Truck: Once the filter and drain plug are secure, safely lower your F-150 off the jack stands.
  2. Add New Oil: Using a funnel, slowly add the recommended amount of new engine oil through the oil filler cap.
  3. Check Oil Level: After adding oil, wait a few minutes for it to settle, then check the dipstick. Add more oil if needed until the level is between the “min” and “max” marks. Do not overfill.
  4. Start the Engine: Start your truck and let it run for a few minutes. The oil pressure light should extinguish quickly. Check underneath for any leaks around the drain plug or oil filter.
  5. Re-Check Oil Level: Shut off the engine, wait 5-10 minutes for the oil to settle, and check the dipstick again. Top off if necessary.
  6. Reset Oil Life Monitor: Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to reset the oil life monitor on your 2017 F-150.

Keep an eye on your oil level and check for leaks over the next few days. This diligence ensures everything was installed correctly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues During an F-150 Oil Change

Even for experienced DIYers, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are solutions to common problems you might encounter.

Stuck Filter Woes

An overtightened or very old oil filter can be incredibly stubborn. If your cap-style wrench is slipping, try a claw-style or strap-style oil filter wrench for better grip. In extreme cases, you might need to carefully drive a screwdriver through the filter body for leverage, but be prepared for a mess and only do this if you’re replacing the filter anyway.

Remember, once you get it off, make a note to yourself not to overtighten the next one!

Stripped Drain Plug Concerns

Stripping the oil pan drain plug threads is a serious issue. If you feel resistance or the plug spins freely without tightening, stop immediately. You might have stripped the threads on the oil pan itself, which could require replacing the oil pan. For plastic drain plugs, sometimes just replacing the plug solves the issue if the pan threads aren’t damaged. In either case, if you suspect stripped threads, it’s best to call a licensed professional mechanic to avoid further, more costly damage.

Prevention is key: always use a torque wrench and avoid overtightening.

Oil Leaks After Replacement

If you notice oil leaking after your oil change, don’t panic. The most common culprits are:

  • Loose Drain Plug: Double-check the drain plug torque.
  • Missing or Damaged Drain Plug Gasket: Ensure the gasket is present and in good condition, or replace the plastic plug entirely.
  • Old Oil Filter Gasket Stuck to Engine: This is a major cause. If the old gasket remained on the engine block, the new filter won’t seal properly. You’ll need to remove the new filter, clean the surface, remove the old gasket, and reinstall the new filter.
  • Loose Oil Filter: Ensure the new filter is tightened correctly (hand-tight plus 3/4 to 1 full turn, or to spec with a torque wrench).

Wipe down the entire area thoroughly and run the engine for a few minutes, then re-inspect to pinpoint the exact source of the leak.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your 2017 Ford F-150 Oil Filter Location

How often should I change the oil and filter on my 2017 F-150?

Ford generally recommends oil changes every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first, especially when using synthetic or synthetic blend oil. However, factors like heavy towing, frequent short trips, or off-road driving can necessitate more frequent changes. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific severe-duty recommendations and pay attention to your truck’s oil life monitor.

What’s the difference between cartridge and spin-on filters?

Most 2017 F-150 engines use a spin-on filter, which is a self-contained metal canister that screws directly onto the engine block. A cartridge filter, on the other hand, is just the filter media element that fits inside a reusable housing on the engine. While some modern F-150 engines have switched to cartridge filters, the 2017 models primarily use spin-on types.

Can I use synthetic oil in my F-150?

Yes, absolutely. In fact, for the EcoBoost engines, synthetic or synthetic blend oil is often recommended or even required due to the demands of the turbochargers. Full synthetic oil offers superior protection, especially in extreme temperatures and for extended drain intervals. Always ensure the synthetic oil meets Ford’s specified viscosity and API service rating.

What if I overtighten the oil filter?

Overtightening the oil filter can lead to several problems: it can crush the filter gasket, causing a leak; it can deform the filter housing, making it extremely difficult to remove next time; or in severe cases, it could even damage the threads on the engine block. Always tighten the filter by hand until the gasket makes contact, then an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn, or to the manufacturer’s specified torque.

Mastering the oil change on your 2017 Ford F-150, including confidently identifying the 2017 Ford F-150 oil filter location, is a rewarding skill. Not only does it save you money, but it also gives you a deeper connection to your vehicle’s health and performance. Remember to prioritize safety, use the right tools, and follow these steps carefully.

Regular maintenance is the cornerstone of your F-150’s reliability, whether you’re commuting to work or venturing far off the beaten path. By taking care of your truck, it will continue to take care of you. Keep those fluids fresh, keep those filters clean, and enjoy many more miles of adventure!

Robert Lozano
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