How to change oil Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer has become a household name in the world of SUVs, but few know its origins. The Explorer was first introduced by Ford in 1990 as a replacement for the Bronco II. At its inception, it was built on the same platform as the Ford Ranger pickup truck, but with a larger body and enhanced off-road capabilities.

The first generation of the Ford Explorer featured a V6 engine and four-wheel drive as standard options. Over time, Ford continued to make significant improvements to the Explorer, including adding a four-door option and upgrading the interior.

The second generation of the Explorer was released in 1995 and boasted a more aerodynamic design, as well as increased safety features. This generation was also when the Explorer became one of the best-selling SUVs in the United States.

In 2002, the third generation of the Explorer was introduced, which included features like AdvanceTrac stability control and a six-speed automatic transmission. The fourth generation, released in 2006, was a complete redesign of the vehicle, featuring a unibody chassis and independent rear suspension.

The fifth generation of the Ford Explorer, introduced in 2011, marked a significant shift in design, as it moved away from its traditional body-on-frame construction and adopted a unibody design. This generation also saw the introduction of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine option.

In 2020, Ford released the sixth generation of the Explorer, which included an all-new rear-wheel-drive platform and new safety features like rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring.

Do I Need to Urgently Change the Oil Right Now?

As a car owner, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance tasks like oil changes to ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle. However, if you’re wondering if you need to urgently change your Ford Explorer’s oil right now, there are a few signs to look out for.

If your oil change light is on, or if you notice that your oil looks dark and dirty, it’s time to schedule an oil change as soon as possible. Additionally, if you notice any unusual sounds or smells coming from your engine, this could be a sign that your oil is low or dirty and needs to be changed immediately.

What is the Frequency of Changing Ford Explorer Engine Oil?

The frequency of changing your Ford Explorer’s engine oil will depend on a variety of factors, including your driving habits, the age of your vehicle, and the type of oil you use. As a general rule, it’s recommended that you change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

However, there are certain situations where you may need to change your oil more frequently. For example, if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or in dusty or dirty environments, you may need to change your oil more often. Additionally, if you use your Ford Explorer for towing or other heavy-duty activities, you may need to change your oil more frequently.

How to Check the Engine Oil Level in the Ford Explorer and What to Do If It’s Low

Checking the oil level in your Ford Explorer is an important maintenance task that should be performed regularly. Here’s how to check your oil level:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Locate the oil dipstick, which is typically marked with a yellow handle.
3. Pull the dipstick out of the engine and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel.
4. Reinsert the dipstick all the way back into the engine, then pull it out again.
5. Check the oil level on the dipstick. The oil level should be between the two markers on the dipstick. If the oil level is low, you’ll need to add more oil.

If the oil level is low, it’s important to add more oil as soon as possible. Low oil levels can cause engine damage and decrease the lifespan of your vehicle.

To add more oil, locate the oil filler cap on the engine and remove it. Using a funnel, pour the recommended amount of oil into the engine. Check the oil level again with the dipstick and repeat the process until the oil level is between the two markers.

It’s important to note that if your oil level is consistently low, there may be an underlying issue causing the oil to leak or burn off. In this case, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue.

In summary, checking your Ford Explorer’s engine oil level regularly and adding more oil as needed is a simple maintenance task that can help ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.

Visual (Express) Assessment of the Condition of Engine Oil

Visual inspection of your Ford Explorer’s engine oil can help you understand its condition and detect potential issues early on. Here’s how to visually assess your engine oil:

1. Open the hood of your vehicle and locate the engine oil dipstick.
2. Pull the dipstick out and observe the color and texture of the oil on the dipstick.
3. Healthy engine oil should be a transparent amber color. If the oil appears dark or black, it may be dirty and require a change.
4. Additionally, if the oil appears milky or foamy, it may indicate the presence of coolant in the oil, which could be a sign of a serious issue such as a blown head gasket.
5. You can also perform a quick test using a piece of paper. Dip the paper into the engine oil and observe the pattern left behind. Healthy engine oil should leave a smooth and even pattern on the paper. If the pattern is irregular or contains debris, the oil may be contaminated and require a change.

Preparing to Change Engine Oil

Changing your Ford Explorer’s engine oil is an essential part of vehicle maintenance that can help extend the life of your engine. Here are some steps to take to prepare for an oil change:

1. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type, oil capacity, and oil filter type for your vehicle.
2. Purchase the recommended oil and oil filter for your vehicle.
3. Ensure that you have the necessary tools and equipment for the oil change, such as a wrench, oil filter wrench, oil drain pan, and funnel.
4. Warm up your engine for a few minutes before draining the oil. Warm oil flows more easily and can help to remove more contaminants from the engine.

What Type of Oil Should Be Used for a Car?

Choosing the right type of oil for your Ford Explorer is important for ensuring proper engine performance and longevity. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an oil type:

1. Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil viscosity grade and oil type for your vehicle.
2. Synthetic oil is generally more expensive but provides better performance and longer intervals between oil changes compared to conventional oil.
3. High mileage oil is designed for vehicles with over 75,000 miles and contains additional additives to help reduce oil consumption and extend engine life.
4. Some oils are formulated for specific types of engines, such as diesel engines or high-performance engines.

How to Choose Oil Depending on the Season and Operating Conditions?

The oil viscosity grade, or thickness, should be chosen based on the climate and operating conditions of your Ford Explorer. Here are some general guidelines:

1. In colder climates, a lower viscosity oil, such as 5W-30, is recommended for easier cold weather starting and improved oil flow.
2. In warmer climates, a higher viscosity oil, such as 10W-40, may be recommended for better engine protection at high temperatures.
3. If your vehicle operates under severe conditions, such as towing or high-speed driving, a higher viscosity oil may be necessary to provide sufficient engine protection.
4. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic for specific recommendations for your vehicle based on its operating conditions.

Engine oil selection

Choosing the right engine oil is crucial for the longevity and performance of your Ford Explorer. Different types of oils have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to understand them before making a choice.

Advantages and disadvantages of different types of oils:

• Conventional oil: This type of oil is affordable and widely available. However, it needs to be changed more frequently and may not perform well in extreme temperatures.
• Synthetic oil: Synthetic oil lasts longer and performs better in extreme temperatures. However, it is more expensive than conventional oil.
• High mileage oil: This type of oil is specifically designed for cars with high mileage and may contain additives that can improve engine performance. However, it is also more expensive than conventional oil.

It is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when choosing the type of oil for your Ford Explorer.

Generation (Year of Manufacture)	Engine	Suitable Oil Viscosity	Popular American Brands	Required Amount of Oil	Article Number	Approximate Cost (USA)
1st (1991-1994)	4.0L V6, 4.0L V8	5W-30, 10W-30	Valvoline, Mobil 1, Pennzoil	5 quarts	N/A	$25-$30
2nd (1995-2001)	4.0L V6, 5.0L V8	5W-30, 5W-20, 10W-30	Castrol, Royal Purple, Mobil 1	5.5 quarts	FL820S	$10-$20
3rd (2002-2005)	4.0L V6, 4.6L V8	5W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30	Pennzoil, Valvoline, Mobil 1	5 quarts	FL820S	$10-$20
4th (2006-2010)	4.0L V6, 4.6L V8	5W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30	Royal Purple, Mobil 1, Castrol	6 quarts	FL820S	$10-$20
5th (2011-2019)	3.5L V6, 2.3L I4	5W-20, 5W-30, 0W-20	Pennzoil, Mobil 1, Royal Purple	6 quarts	FL-500S	$10-$20
6th (2020-present)	2.3L I4, 3.0L V6	5W-20, 5W-30, 0W-20	Pennzoil, Mobil 1, Royal Purple	6 quarts	FL-500S	$10-$20

Which oil filter is right for you?

Here is a table with the selection of oil filters for Ford Explorer of all generations:

Generation	Engine	Popular brands of oil filters	Catalog number	Approximate cost
1st (1991-1994)	4.0 L Cologne V6	Motorcraft FL-1A, Fram PH8A, Purolator L30001	FL-1A, PH8A, L30001	$5-10
2nd (1995-2001)	4.0 L Cologne V6	Motorcraft FL-1A, Fram PH8A, Purolator L30001	FL-1A, PH8A, L30001	$5-10
3rd (2002-2005)	4.0 L Cologne V6, 4.6 L Modular V8	Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH2, Purolator L14610	FL820S, PH2, L14610	$5-10
4th (2006-2010)	4.0 L Cologne V6, 4.6 L Modular V8	Motorcraft FL820S, Fram PH2, Purolator L14610	FL820S, PH2, L14610	$5-10
5th (2011-2019)	3.5 L EcoBoost V6, 2.3 L EcoBoost I4, 3.5 L Ti-VCT V6	Motorcraft FL500S, Fram XG10575, Purolator PL22500	FL500S, XG10575, PL22500	$8-15
6th (2020-present)	2.3 L EcoBoost I4, 3.0 L EcoBoost V6	Motorcraft FL500S, Fram XG10575, Purolator PL22500	FL500S, XG10575, PL22500	$8-15

Necessary tools and conditions

Before starting an independent engine oil change for the Ford Explorer, you will need the following tools and conditions:

1. Engine oil (according to the recommendations in the manual)
2. Oil filter (compatible with your car’s engine, according to the recommendations in the manual)
3. Oil filter wrench (to remove the old oil filter)
4. Drain pan (to catch the old oil)
5. Socket wrench (to remove the oil drain plug)
6. Funnel (to pour the new oil into the engine)
7. Jack and jack stands (to lift the car and secure it in place)
8. Wheel chocks (to prevent the car from rolling)
9. Gloves (to protect your hands from the hot oil)
10. Rags or paper towels (to clean up any spills)

Make sure that you have a flat and level surface to work on, and that the engine has cooled down before you start the oil change. It’s also a good idea to wear protective eyewear to prevent any oil from getting into your eyes.

How to warm up the engine before changing the oil?

Properly warming up the engine is an essential step to take before changing the oil in a Ford Explorer. The process of warming up the engine allows the oil to reach its optimal operating temperature, which makes it easier to drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil. To warm up the engine, start the car and let it run for 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, the engine will reach its optimal operating temperature, which is around 212°F.

Step-by-step instruction

Changing the engine oil on your Ford Explorer can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and some basic knowledge, it can be done easily and quickly. Here is a step-by-step guide for beginners to change Ford Explorer engine oil on their own:

1. Warm up the engine: Before changing the oil, make sure to warm up the engine as described in the previous section.
2. Gather necessary tools: To change the oil, you will need a new oil filter, new oil, a drain pan, an oil filter wrench, and a funnel.
3. Locate the oil drain plug: Locate the oil drain plug under the car. Place the drain pan under the plug.
4. Drain the oil: Remove the oil drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely into the pan. This may take a few minutes.
5. Replace the oil filter: Use the oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Replace it with a new one, being careful not to over-tighten it.
6. Add new oil: Once the old oil has drained completely, replace the drain plug and use the funnel to add the appropriate amount of new oil for your Ford Explorer model.
7. Check the oil level: Use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add more oil if needed.
8. Dispose of old oil: Dispose of the old oil properly by taking it to a recycling center or mechanic.

The entire process of changing the oil should take about 30-45 minutes. With these simple steps, you can save money by changing the oil on your Ford Explorer yourself, while also ensuring that your vehicle’s engine is running smoothly.

Replacing transmission fluid in automatic transmission

What is the frequency (interval) of changing the transmission fluid in an automatic transmission?

Regular replacement of transmission fluid is an important part of the maintenance of your Ford Explorer. The frequency of changing the transmission fluid in an automatic transmission may vary depending on the specific model, year, and driving conditions. However, it is generally recommended to change the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. It is important to refer to the owner’s manual for the specific recommendations for your vehicle.

In some situations, such as frequent heavy towing, driving in extreme temperatures, or stop-and-go traffic, it may be necessary to change the transmission fluid more frequently. Additionally, if you notice any signs of transmission problems such as slipping or difficulty shifting, it may be necessary to change the transmission fluid sooner than recommended.

What transmission fluid to choose?

Choosing the right transmission fluid for your Ford Explorer is important for maintaining the proper functioning of your transmission. Here is a table outlining the recommended transmission fluid for each generation of the Ford Explorer:

Generation	Engine	Fluid Amount	Popular Brands	Catalog Number	Approximate Cost
5 (2011-2019)	3.5L V6 EcoBoost	10.3 qt	Motorcraft, Valvoline, Mobil	XT-10-QLVC, MaxLife Full Synthetic, ATF+4	$50-60
5 (2011-2019)	2.0L I4 EcoBoost	10.3 qt	Motorcraft, Valvoline, Mobil	XT-10-QLVC, MaxLife Full Synthetic, ATF+4	$50-60
5 (2011-2019)	3.5L V6	10.3 qt	Motorcraft, Valvoline, Mobil	XT-10-QLVC, MaxLife Full Synthetic, ATF+4	$50-60
4 (2006-2010)	4.6L V8	13.9 qt	Motorcraft, Valvoline, Mobil	XT-10-QLVC, MaxLife Full Synthetic, ATF+4	$50-60
4 (2006-2010)	4.0L V6	13.9 qt	Motorcraft, Valvoline, Mobil	XT-10-QLVC, MaxLife Full Synthetic, ATF+4	$50-60
3 (2002-2005)	4.6L V8	13.9 qt	Motorcraft, Valvoline, Mobil	XT-10-QLVC, MaxLife Full Synthetic, ATF+4	$50-60
3 (2002-2005)	4.0L V6	13.9 qt	Motorcraft, Valvoline, Mobil	XT-10-QLVC, MaxLife Full Synthetic, ATF+4	$50-60
2 (1995-2001)	4.0L V6	12.7 qt	Motorcraft, Valvoline, Mobil	XT-10-QLVC, MaxLife Full Synthetic, ATF+4	$50-60
1 (1991-1994)	4.0L V6	10.0 qt	Motorcraft, Valvoline, Mobil	XT-10-QLVC, MaxLife Full Synthetic, ATF+4	$50-60

Replacing Transmission Fluid in Automatic Transmission

Automatic transmission fluid is essential to the proper functioning of a vehicle’s transmission. It is responsible for cooling, lubricating, and cleaning the transmission’s internal parts. Over time, the fluid becomes dirty and contaminated, which can cause transmission problems if not changed regularly.

In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to replace the transmission fluid in a Ford Explorer’s automatic transmission.

Required Tool Before starting, you will need the following tools and materials:

• A drain pan
• A socket wrench set
• A funnel
• A new transmission filter (if applicable)
• The correct type and amount of transmission fluid
• Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Warm Up the Engine: Start the engine and let it warm up for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the fluid to flow more easily when draining.
2. Locate the Transmission Fluid Pan: The transmission fluid pan is typically located under the transmission. Position the drain pan underneath the pan to catch the old fluid.
3. Remove the Transmission Fluid Pan: Use the socket wrench set to remove the bolts that secure the transmission fluid pan to the transmission. Once all bolts are removed, carefully remove the pan, taking care not to spill any fluid.
4. Remove the Old Filter (if applicable): If your vehicle has a transmission filter, remove it carefully from the transmission.
5. Clean the Pan and Magnet: Clean the inside of the transmission pan and remove any debris. Also, clean the magnet inside the pan as it attracts any metal shavings in the fluid.
6. Install the New Filter (if applicable): If your vehicle has a transmission filter, install the new filter.
7. Replace the Transmission Fluid Pan: Put the new gasket on the pan and then put the pan back into place. Secure the bolts with a socket wrench set.
8. Refill the Transmission with Fluid: Use the funnel to add the correct amount of transmission fluid recommended in the owner’s manual.
9. Check the Fluid Level: Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Then, shift through all the gears while holding the brake pedal down. Return the shift lever to the “Park” position and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid if necessary.
10. Dispose of Old Fluid Properly: Make sure to dispose of the old transmission fluid safely and appropriately. It cannot be poured down the drain or in the trash. Most automotive shops or waste disposal facilities will accept used transmission fluid.

In conclusion, changing the transmission fluid in a Ford Explorer’s automatic transmission is a straightforward process that can be done with basic tools and materials. With the right steps and precautions, you can help ensure your transmission continues to function properly for years to come.

Possible questions after self-service

Performing DIY car maintenance can save you money, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid problems. Here are some common questions that may arise after self-changing engine oil or performing other maintenance tasks on your Ford Explorer.

What problems can arise after an incorrect self-changing engine oil?

Performing an incorrect engine oil change can lead to a range of issues, including decreased engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and engine damage. If the wrong type of oil is used, or the oil filter is not installed correctly, it can cause oil leaks, engine overheating, and excessive engine wear. In addition, if the oil level is too low or too high, it can also cause problems such as engine knocking, increased emissions, and even engine failure.

How can I check for engine oil leaks after changing it myself?

To check for engine oil leaks after changing it yourself, start by checking the oil filter and drain plug to make sure they are tight and properly installed. Then, check the oil pan, valve cover, and oil pressure sensor for signs of oil leakage. If there are visible oil leaks, you may need to replace the gasket or seal in the affected area. It’s also important to check the oil level regularly to ensure that the engine is properly lubricated.

How to reset the oil change counter?

To reset the oil change counter on a Ford Explorer after self-service, start by turning the ignition to the “on” position without starting the engine. Then, press the accelerator pedal down three times within 10 seconds. The oil change counter should then be reset to 100%. If this does not work, consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic for assistance.

What to do with old oil after replacement?

It is important to dispose of used engine oil properly to prevent environmental contamination. Many auto parts stores, service stations, and recycling centers accept used oil for recycling. Check with your local waste management authority for information on how to properly dispose of used oil in your area. Remember to never pour used oil down the drain, into the ground, or into the trash.