2018 Ford Explorer — Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2018 Ford Explorer takes 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) with the 2.3L EcoBoost, and 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) with either 3.5L V6 (Ti‑VCT or EcoBoost) when changing oil and filter.

Quick answer

• 2.3L I‑4 EcoBoost (turbo)
  • Capacity (with filter): 5.7 qt (5.4 L)
  • Recommended viscosity: 5W‑30
  • Oil type/spec: Ford WSS‑M2C946‑B1 (meets or exceeds; API SN+/SP, ILSAC GF‑6 acceptable if it also meets Ford spec)
  • Oil filter: Motorcraft FL‑910S
    • Popular cross‑refs: Fram XG3614/PH3614, Wix 51348, Mobil 1 M1‑102A
• 3.5L V6 Ti‑VCT (naturally aspirated)
  • Capacity (with filter): 6.0 qt (5.7 L)
  • Recommended viscosity: 5W‑20
  • Oil type/spec: Ford WSS‑M2C945‑B1 (meets or exceeds; API SN+/SP, ILSAC GF‑6 acceptable if it also meets Ford spec)
  • Oil filter: Motorcraft FL‑500S
    • Popular cross‑refs: Fram XG10575/PH10575, Wix 57502, Mobil 1 M1‑212A
• 3.5L V6 EcoBoost (twin‑turbo)
  • Capacity (with filter): 6.0 qt (5.7 L)
  • Recommended viscosity: 5W‑20
  • Oil type/spec: Ford WSS‑M2C945‑B1 (meets or exceeds; API SN+/SP, ILSAC GF‑6 acceptable if it also meets Ford spec)
  • Oil filter: Motorcraft FL‑500S
    • Popular cross‑refs: Fram XG10575/PH10575, Wix 57502, Mobil 1 M1‑212A

Capacity by engine option

Oil change interval

• Normal service: Follow the Intelligent Oil‑Life Monitor (IOLM) up to a maximum of 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using oil that meets the Ford spec listed above.
• Severe service (frequent short trips, extreme temps, dusty conditions, extended idling, heavy loads/towing, or mostly city driving): 5,000 miles or 6 months is a smart target—especially on the turbo engines. Always go by the IOLM if it calls for sooner.

Tip: Check oil level regularly on the EcoBoost engines; they can consume small amounts between changes, which is normal within spec.

Drain plug torque

• Drain plug torque: 20 lb‑ft (27 N·m)
• Crush washer/gasket: The factory plug uses a captive sealing washer. Replace the plug or washer if the seal is damaged; consult a Ford dealer for the exact washer/plug part for your VIN.

How to change the oil

1. Warm the engine, park level, and safely support the vehicle.
2. Remove the under‑shield access panel (if equipped).
3. Place a drain pan, remove the drain plug, and allow oil to drain completely.
4. Remove the oil filter. Ensure the old gasket isn’t stuck to the housing.
5. Lightly oil the new filter’s gasket and install hand‑tight, then snug per filter instructions (usually 3/4 turn after gasket contact).
6. Reinstall and torque the drain plug to 20 lb‑ft (27 N·m). Refit the access panel.
7. Fill with the correct amount/viscosity for your engine. Start, check for leaks, then shut off and verify level on the dipstick, topping off as needed.
8. Reset the Intelligent Oil‑Life Monitor through the instrument cluster menu.

Common issues / tips for this generation

• EcoBoost care: Turbochargers run hot; sticking to the correct Ford‑approved oil and shorter intervals under severe use helps prevent coking and timing chain varnish. A brief idle before shut‑down after hard driving is beneficial.
• Timing chain rattle (V6s): Extended intervals or wrong oil can accelerate chain and tensioner wear—use the specified viscosity and quality.
• GDI carbon buildup (EcoBoost): All‑direct‑injection engines can accrue intake valve deposits over time. Quality fuel, top‑tier gas, and regular oil changes help; some owners add periodic induction service as mileage climbs.
• PTU awareness (AWD models): Not engine oil, but the Power Transfer Unit on AWD Explorers is known to run hot; if you smell gear oil, have it inspected. Keeping engine oil fresh helps overall drivetrain health.
• Don’t overfill: Overfilling can aerate the oil and trigger codes. Always verify on the dipstick after the engine has idled and been allowed to sit a couple of minutes.
• Filter gasket “double‑seal”: Make sure the old filter O‑ring comes off with the filter to avoid blow‑out on startup.

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