Oil For 2018 Ford Explorer – The Ultimate Guide To Specs, Brands
Choosing the correct engine lubricant is the most effective way to protect your vehicle’s internal components and maintain its resale value. This guide provides the exact specifications, capacities, and step-by-step procedures to ensure your 2018 Ford Explorer stays on the road for hundreds of thousands of miles.
Maintaining a modern SUV requires more than just pulling a random bottle off the shelf at the local auto parts store. You likely want your vehicle to run as smoothly as the day it left the showroom floor, whether you are commuting or heading off-road.
In this guide, I will break down the specific technical requirements for the oil for 2018 ford explorer models so you can shop with confidence. We will cover everything from viscosity grades to the best synthetic brands and the tools you need for a successful DIY weekend project.
By the end of this article, you will have a professional-level understanding of your Ford’s lubrication needs. Let’s dive into the details and get your engine the protection it deserves.
Understanding the Correct oil for 2018 ford explorer Engines
The 2018 Ford Explorer was offered with three distinct engine options, and they do not all use the same lubricant. Identifying your specific engine is the first and most critical step in the maintenance process.
The base engine is the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6, which is a naturally aspirated workhorse known for its reliability. For those seeking better fuel economy, the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder was a popular choice among many owners.
Finally, the high-performance Sport and Platinum trims feature the 3.5L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo V6. Each of these engines has specific demands regarding heat management and internal lubrication pressures.
Viscosity and Specification Standards
For the 2.3L EcoBoost and the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6, Ford recommends using 5W-20 motor oil. This thinner weight helps with cold-start protection and improves overall fuel efficiency by reducing internal drag.
However, the 3.5L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo requires 5W-30 weight oil. The turbochargers in this engine generate immense heat, and the slightly thicker 5W-30 provides a more robust film of protection under high-stress conditions.
Regardless of the weight, you must ensure the product meets Ford’s WSS-M2C945-A (for 5W-20) or WSS-M2C946-A (for 5W-30) standards. These certifications ensure the formula contains the correct additives to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) in turbocharged engines.
Synthetic Blend vs. Full Synthetic
Ford ships these vehicles from the factory with Motorcraft Synthetic Blend. This is a high-quality product that offers a balance between cost and performance for everyday driving scenarios.
If you frequently tow trailers, live in an area with extreme temperature swings, or enjoy off-roading, I highly recommend upgrading to a full synthetic. Full synthetics offer superior thermal stability and do not break down as quickly as blends.
Using a full synthetic oil for 2018 ford explorer engines can also help keep the intake valves cleaner. This is especially important for the EcoBoost direct-injection engines, which are prone to carbon buildup over time.
Essential Tools and Materials for the Job
Before you crawl under your SUV, you need to gather the right supplies to avoid mid-project trips to the store. Having an organized workspace makes the job safer and much more enjoyable.
You will need a high-quality socket set, specifically a 15mm socket for the oil pan drain plug. A dedicated oil filter wrench is also necessary, as the factory filters can be quite stubborn to remove by hand.
Safety should always be your primary concern when working under a heavy vehicle. Never rely solely on a hydraulic jack; always use jack stands rated for the weight of an Explorer to secure the frame.
- Engine Oil: 5.7 to 6.0 quarts (check your specific engine capacity).
- Oil Filter: Motorcraft FL-500S (standard for most 2018 Explorer engines).
- Drain Pan: At least a 7-quart capacity to prevent messy overflows.
- Funnel: A long-neck funnel to reach the fill port without spilling on the engine cover.
- Shop Rags: For cleaning the mounting surface and catching drips.
I also recommend wearing nitrile gloves to protect your skin from used engine oil. Used oil contains contaminants and heavy metals that you want to keep off your hands during the process.
Step-by-Step DIY Oil Change Guide
Performing your own maintenance is a great way to bond with your vehicle and ensure the job is done right. Follow these steps carefully to achieve a professional-grade result in your own driveway.
1. Prepare the Vehicle
Start the engine and let it run for about five minutes to warm up the lubricant. Warm oil flows much faster and carries more suspended contaminants out of the engine than cold, thick oil.
Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lift the front end using a floor jack. Place your jack stands under the designated frame points and slowly lower the vehicle onto them.
Open the hood and remove the oil fill cap. This allows air to enter the system, which prevents a “glugging” effect and helps the old fluid drain out in a smooth, steady stream.
2. Drain the Old Fluid
Slide your drain pan under the engine and locate the 15mm drain plug at the rear of the oil pan. Position the pan slightly behind the plug, as the oil will shoot out with some force initially.
Use your wrench to loosen the plug, then finish unscrewing it by hand. Be careful, as the fluid may be hot; try to keep upward pressure on the plug until the very last thread to avoid a mess.
Allow the oil to drain until it is only a very slow drip. While you wait, inspect the drain plug gasket for any cracks or flattening, and replace it if it looks worn out.
3. Replace the Oil Filter
Locate the oil filter, which is typically found on the front or side of the engine block depending on your engine model. Move the drain pan underneath it before you start loosening.
Use your filter wrench to break it loose, then unscrew it slowly by hand. Ensure the old rubber gasket comes off with the filter; if it stays stuck to the engine, the new filter will leak.
Take your new Motorcraft FL-500S filter and apply a thin film of fresh lubricant to the rubber gasket. Screw the new filter on by hand until it is snug, then give it an extra 1/4 to 1/2 turn.
4. Refill and Check
Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to approximately 20 lb-ft of torque. Do not over-tighten it, as you can easily strip the threads in the oil pan, leading to an expensive repair.
Insert your funnel into the fill port and pour in the required amount of oil for 2018 ford explorer engines. For the 3.5L V6, this is usually 6.0 quarts, while the 2.3L takes about 5.7 quarts.
Replace the fill cap, start the engine, and let it idle for a minute while you check for leaks underneath. Turn the engine off, wait three minutes for the oil to settle, and check the dipstick level.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During an Oil Change
Even experienced DIYers can make simple errors that lead to leaks or engine damage. Awareness of these common pitfalls will help you maintain a high standard of work on your Explorer.
One of the most frequent mistakes is “double-gasketing.” This happens when the old filter’s O-ring stays stuck to the engine block. When you install the new filter on top of it, the seal will fail immediately under pressure.
Another error is forgetting to reset the Oil Life Monitor in the dashboard settings. Your Ford uses an algorithm to track driving habits and temperatures; if you don’t reset it, the “Change Oil Soon” light will persist.
Never overfill the crankcase. Too much oil can cause “foaming” or aeration as the crankshaft hits the surface of the fluid. Aerated oil does not lubricate well and can lead to increased wear on internal bearings.
Finally, always dispose of your used fluid responsibly. Most local auto parts stores and recycling centers will take your old oil and filters for free, protecting the environment from hazardous waste.
Expert Tips for Performance and Longevity
If you use your Ford for more than just grocery runs, you might need to adjust your maintenance schedule. Heavy-duty use requires more frequent attention to keep the engine healthy.
For those who use their oil for 2018 ford explorer in towing scenarios, I recommend shortening the interval to 5,000 miles. Towing increases the load on the engine and can shear the oil molecules faster than normal driving.
Off-roaders should also be mindful of dust and debris. If you spend a lot of time on dirt trails, your air filter and oil can become contaminated more quickly, necessitating more frequent changes to prevent internal abrasion.
I always suggest keeping a “maintenance log” in your glove box. Recording the date, mileage, and brand of oil used provides a great paper trail for future buyers and helps you stay on track with your service intervals.
If you notice a sudden drop in oil level between changes, don’t panic, but do investigate. While some consumption is normal in high-mileage engines, a sudden change could indicate a leaking valve cover gasket or a PCV valve issue.
Frequently Asked Questions About oil for 2018 ford explorer
How often should I change the oil in my 2018 Ford Explorer?
Ford recommends changing the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, for “Severe Duty” use like frequent idling, towing, or extreme heat, you should change it every 5,000 miles or six months.
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 in my 3.5L Ti-VCT engine?
While it won’t cause immediate engine failure, it is best to stick to the manufacturer’s recommendation of 5W-20. Using a thicker oil can slightly decrease fuel economy and may affect the operation of the variable cam timing system.
What is the best brand of oil for my Ford Explorer?
Motorcraft is the factory-recommended brand and is highly reliable. However, premium full synthetics like Mobil 1, Pennzoil Platinum, or Valvoline Advanced are excellent choices that often exceed Ford’s minimum requirements.
How do I reset the oil life light on the dashboard?
Use the steering wheel buttons to navigate to the “Settings” menu on the instrument cluster. Go to “Vehicle,” then “Oil Life Reset,” and hold the “OK” button until the display shows 100%.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Explorer Healthy
Taking the time to select the right oil for 2018 ford explorer engines is one of the best investments you can make. Whether you choose a synthetic blend or a full synthetic, consistency is the most important factor in engine longevity.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save money on shop labor while ensuring your vehicle receives the highest quality care. Remember to always prioritize safety by using jack stands and disposing of your waste properly.
Your Ford Explorer is a versatile machine built for adventure and family life. Give it the protection it needs, and it will continue to provide reliable performance for many years to come. Stay safe, keep your hands greasy, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done!
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