Ford Explorer Oil Type & Capacity
GarageDex's oil-spec data shows the Ford Explorer takes 5W-30 engine oil, about 5.1-6 qt with a filter change, on 2025-2027 models. Older ones use the same grade but hold a different amount - 2024 models take 5.2-6 qt - so check your year in the table below.
Oil by model year
| Model years | Oil type | Capacity | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-2027 | 5W-30 | 5.1-6 qt | Shop 5W-30 |
| 2024 | 5W-30 | 5.2-6 qt | Shop 5W-30 |
| 2020-2023 | 5W-20 / 5W-30 | 5.2-6 qt | Shop 5W-20Shop 5W-30 |
| 2012-2019 | 5W-20 / 5W-30 | 5.7-6 qt | Shop 5W-20Shop 5W-30 |
| 2011 | 5W-20 | 6 qt | Shop 5W-20 |
| 2009-2010 | 5W-20 / 5W-30 | 5-6 qt | Shop 5W-20Shop 5W-30 |
| 2007-2008 | 5W-20 / 5W-30 | 5-6.3 qt | Shop 5W-20Shop 5W-30 |
| 2002-2006 | 5W-20 / 5W-30 | 5-6 qt | Shop 5W-20Shop 5W-30 |
| 2000-2001 | 5W-20 / 5W-30 | 5 qt | Shop 5W-20Shop 5W-30 |
Capacity is with a filter change and can vary by engine - open your exact year below for the per-engine figures and our sources. Shop links go to Amazon, and we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Every Explorer year
Frequently asked
What kind of oil does a Ford Explorer take?
GarageDex's oil-spec data shows the Ford Explorer takes 5W-30 engine oil, about 5.1-6 qt with a filter change, on 2025-2027 models. Older ones use the same grade but hold a different amount - 2024 models take 5.2-6 qt - so check your year in the table below.
How many quarts of oil does a Ford Explorer take?
About 5.1-6 qt with a filter change on 2025-2027 models, and 5.2-6 qt on 2024 models. Capacity varies by engine, so check your exact year for the per-engine figure - and finish on the dipstick rather than pouring in the full amount.
Does the oil type change by year on the Ford Explorer?
Yes. We record 9 different factory specs across the years we cover - 2025-2027: 5W-30; 2024: 5W-30; 2020-2023: 5W-20/5W-30. Use the table above and confirm against your owner's manual.