2018 Ford Escape — Oil Capacity & Filter Specs

The 2018 Ford Escape takes between 4.3 and 5.7 quarts (4.1–5.4 liters) of engine oil with a new filter, depending on the engine.

Quick answer

• Oil capacity (with filter): 4.3–5.7 qt (4.1–5.4 L), see engine table below
• Recommended oil weight:
  • 1.5L EcoBoost & 2.0L EcoBoost: SAE 5W-30
  • 2.5L iVCT (NA): SAE 5W-20
• Oil type/spec:
  • 5W-30 meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (or latest equivalent), API SN/SN Plus or newer
  • 5W-20 meeting Ford WSS-M2C945-B1 (or latest equivalent), API SN or newer
• Oil filter:
  • OEM: Motorcraft FL-910S
  • Popular aftermarket cross-refs: Fram XG3614 (Ultra), Wix 51348, Mobil 1 M1-102A

Capacity by engine option

Oil change interval

• Normal service: Follow the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (IOLM); typically 7,500–10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, when using oil that meets the Ford spec above.
• Severe service (frequent short trips, lots of idling, hot/cold extremes, dusty roads, towing): 5,000 miles/6 months is a safe target. Turbo EcoBoost engines (1.5L/2.0L) can benefit from the shorter end of the range due to potential fuel dilution in stop‑and‑go driving.

Tip: Always reset the IOLM after service (see steps below).

Drain plug torque

• Torque: 20 lb-ft (27 N·m) on the oil pan drain plug. Do not overtighten—many pans are aluminum.
• Crush washer/gasket: The Motorcraft plug uses an integral sealing washer. Replace the washer (or the whole plug) if damaged or if you notice seepage. Aftermarket plugs may use a separate copper/aluminum washer—replace each service.

How to change the oil

1. Warm the engine 2–3 minutes, then shut off and safely raise/support the front of the vehicle.
2. Remove the lower splash shield fasteners to access the drain plug and filter (if equipped).
3. Place a drain pan, remove the drain plug, and allow oil to drain completely. Inspect the plug and washer.
4. Replace/clean the drain plug washer as needed and torque the plug to 20 lb-ft (27 N·m).
5. Spin off the oil filter. Verify the old gasket comes off with the filter.
6. Lightly oil the new filter’s gasket, fill it about halfway (if space allows), and install hand-tight plus 3/4 turn, or to the filter maker’s spec.
7. Add the correct amount of oil for your engine (see table). Start with about 0.5 qt less than full, then top off after checking.
8. Start the engine, check for leaks, shut down, wait 2–3 minutes, and verify the dipstick is at the proper level. Top up as needed.
9. Reinstall the splash shield and lower the vehicle.
10. Reset the IOLM: Key on (engine off) > use steering wheel controls to navigate to Settings > Vehicle > Oil Life Reset > press and hold OK to 100%.

Common issues / tips for this generation

• Use the correct Ford spec oil: Turbo EcoBoost engines are sensitive to Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI). A 5W-30 that meets WSS-M2C946-B1 (API SN Plus or newer) helps mitigate LSPI and protects turbo bearings.
• 1.5L EcoBoost coolant intrusion TSBs: Some 2017–2019 1.5L engines have known concerns for coolant loss/white smoke/misfires. Monitor coolant level and watch for milky oil. Address promptly—diluted oil accelerates wear.
• Fuel dilution in short-trip driving: Especially on EcoBoost models, frequent short runs can raise the oil level with fuel and thin the oil. Shorten intervals (e.g., 5,000 miles) if most trips are under 10 miles.
• Double-gasket caution: The FL-910S seal can stick to the housing. Ensure the old rubber gasket isn’t left behind before installing the new filter.
• Top-mount filter access: The Escape’s filter is typically accessed from below; a band wrench or cup wrench sized for FL-910S simplifies removal in tight quarters.
• Always verify capacity on the dipstick: Some vehicles retain oil in the galleries/cooler; final fill can vary slightly. Aim for the mid-to-upper hash marks without exceeding MAX.

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