2016 Ford Explorer Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2016 Ford Explorer takes between 5.7 and 6.0 quarts of 5W-30 or 5W-20 engine oil, depending on the engine.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity:
  • 2.3L EcoBoost: 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters)
  • 3.5L V6 (Non-EcoBoost): 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
  • 3.5L EcoBoost: 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight:
  • 2.3L EcoBoost: 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-A or WSS-M2C929-A (Check owner's manual for latest spec)
  • 3.5L V6 (Non-EcoBoost): 5W-20 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic meeting Ford WSS-M2C945-A
  • 3.5L EcoBoost: 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-A or WSS-M2C929-A (Check owner's manual for latest spec)
• Oil Spec: API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher
• Oil Filter Part Numbers:
  • 2.3L EcoBoost:
    • OEM Ford FL-910S
    • Fram PH2
    • Wix 51372
    • Mobil 1 M1-102
  • 3.5L V6 (Non-EcoBoost & EcoBoost):
    • OEM Ford FL-500S
    • Fram TG10575
    • Wix 57502
    • Mobil 1 M1-102A

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

Ford recommends the following oil change intervals for the 2016 Explorer:

• Normal Duty: Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3 to 6 months, whichever comes first. Severe duty conditions include frequent short trips, extensive idling, towing, or driving in dusty conditions.

Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information on maintenance schedules.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug torque specification for the 2016 Ford Explorer is generally between 19-25 lb-ft (25-34 Nm) for all engine options. It is highly recommended to use a new crush washer (gasket) with each oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The crush washer helps to accommodate imperfections and ensures a tight, leak-free seal without overtightening.

How to Change the Oil

1. Warm Up Engine: Drive the vehicle for a few minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature, making it flow more easily.
2. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
3. Locate Drain Plug: Place a suitable drain pan under the oil pan. Locate the oil drain plug.
4. Drain Oil: Carefully remove the drain plug (use a wrench, not pliers) and allow the old oil to drain completely. Be mindful that the oil will be hot.
5. Replace Drain Plug: Once drained, reinstall the drain plug with a new crush washer and tighten to the specified torque.
6. Replace Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter. Unscrew the old filter and allow any remaining oil to drain. Apply a thin film of new oil to the gasket of the new filter before screwing it on hand-tight until the gasket seats, then turn an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn.
7. Refill Oil: Lower the vehicle. Remove the oil filler cap and carefully pour in the recommended amount and type of new oil using a funnel.
8. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the new oil. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
9. Dispose of Old Oil: Properly dispose of the used oil and filter at an authorized recycling center.

Common Issues / Tips

• EcoBoost Engine Considerations: The EcoBoost engines (2.3L and 3.5L) in the 2016 Explorer are direct-injected and can be prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves over time. Using high-quality synthetic oil and adhering to recommended oil change intervals can help mitigate this, though it doesn't eliminate the issue entirely.
• Oil Life Monitoring System: The 2016 Explorer is equipped with an Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (IOLM). While it provides an estimate for when an oil change is due based on driving conditions, it's generally a good idea to still follow the time/mileage intervals in your owner's manual, especially for severe duty.
• Correct Oil Viscosity: Pay close attention to the recommended oil viscosity for your specific engine. Using the incorrect oil can lead to decreased fuel economy and potential engine wear.
• Filter Location: On some 3.5L EcoBoost models, the oil filter can be a bit challenging to access. A proper filter wrench and potentially a swivel extension can make the job easier.

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