Ford Explorer Oil Capacity & Oil Type
TL;DR
Capacity and viscosity depend on which engine is under the hood - fifth-generation (2011-2019) and sixth-generation (2020-present) Explorers used several different engines with different specs, so match your model year and engine code below.
Ford Explorer oil capacity by engine
The Explorer has been sold with several distinct engine families across two recent generations, and each one has its own oil capacity and recommended viscosity. Always confirm which engine your specific Explorer has before buying oil, since trims within the same model year can differ (for example the base engine versus the ST or Platinum trim).
Where to find the correct figure for your exact vehicle
The table below reflects figures gathered from service data and lookup tools, but the single most reliable source for your car is always your own vehicle: check the oil filler cap, the engine dipstick markings, the driver door jamb placard, or the Capacities and Specifications section of your owner's manual. These will state the exact factory-fill amount and viscosity grade for your build.
| Engine code / years | Capacity with filter (L / US qt) | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5L Duratec/Cyclone V6 (naturally aspirated), 2011-2019 | 5.7 L / 6.0 qt | SAE 5W-20 |
| 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, 2011-2019 (Sport, Platinum) | 5.7 L / 6.0 qt | SAE 5W-30 |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 2016-2019 | 4.9-5.4 L / 5.2-5.7 qt (sources vary - check your dipstick) | SAE 5W-30 |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 2020-present | 4.9 L / 5.2 qt | SAE 5W-30 |
| 3.3L V6 Hybrid (PowerSplit), 2020-present | 5.7 L / 6.0 qt | SAE 5W-20 |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Platinum / ST), 2020-present | 5.7 L / 6.0 qt | SAE 5W-30 |
Why the 2.3L EcoBoost figure varies
Different service databases list either 5.2 or 5.7 quarts for the 2.3L four-cylinder depending on model year and data source. Rather than guess, treat this as a range and confirm the exact number using your dipstick full mark or owner's manual before topping off.
General oil-change tips
- Always add oil gradually and check the dipstick rather than pouring in the full rated capacity at once - turbocharged engines especially should never be overfilled.
- Use the Motorcraft-recommended full synthetic that meets the WSS-M2C946 (EcoBoost) or WSS-M2C930 (Duratec) specification listed in your manual.
- Towing capacity, tire size, and payload figures are unrelated to oil capacity but are also found on the driver door placard for quick reference.
Summary
| 3.5L V6 (naturally aspirated), 2011-2019 | 6.0 qt / 5.7 L, 5W-20 |
|---|---|
| 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, 2011-2019 | 6.0 qt / 5.7 L, 5W-30 |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 2016-2019 | 5.2-5.7 qt / 4.9-5.4 L, 5W-30 |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 2020-present | 5.2 qt / 4.9 L, 5W-30 |
| 3.3L V6 Hybrid, 2020-present | 6.0 qt / 5.7 L, 5W-20 |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Platinum/ST), 2020-present | 6.0 qt / 5.7 L, 5W-30 |
Full diagnostics
For the complete step-by-step diagnostic and repair guide, see Ford Explorer: Common Problems, Fault Codes & Repairs.
Frequently asked questions
How much oil does a Ford Explorer take with a filter change?
It depends on the engine: the 3.5L V6 (naturally aspirated or EcoBoost twin-turbo), the 3.3L Hybrid V6, and the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 all take about 6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters), while the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder takes roughly 5.2 quarts (4.9 liters). Confirm on your dipstick or owner's manual since figures can vary slightly by year.
What viscosity oil does a Ford Explorer need?
Ford specifies SAE 5W-20 for the naturally aspirated 3.5L Duratec/Cyclone V6 and the 3.3L Hybrid V6, and SAE 5W-30 for the turbocharged EcoBoost engines (2.3L, 3.0L, and 3.5L EcoBoost). Always use a full synthetic oil meeting the Ford WSS specification printed in your owner's manual.
Is the oil capacity the same for every Ford Explorer trim?
No. Trims that share a model year can use different engines - for example a base XLT with the 2.3L EcoBoost holds less oil than an ST or Platinum with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6. Check your engine code, not just the model year, before buying oil.
Where can I find the exact oil specification for my specific Explorer?
The most reliable sources are your vehicle's own oil filler cap, the dipstick markings, the driver's door jamb placard, and the Capacities and Specifications section of your owner's manual - these reflect the exact factory fill for your engine and build.