2021 Ford Explorer Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2021 Ford Explorer takes between 5.7 and 6.2 quarts (5.4 - 5.9 liters) of SAE 5W-30 oil, depending on the engine.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity:
  • 2.3L EcoBoost: 6.2 quarts (5.9 liters)
  • 3.0L EcoBoost: 6.2 quarts (5.9 liters)
  • 3.3L Duratec (non-hybrid): 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters)
  • 3.3L Duratec (hybrid): 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: SAE 5W-30
• Oil Type Specification: WSS-M2C946-B1 (or API SN Plus / SP with Resource Conserving designation)
• Oil Filter Part Numbers:
  • OEM Ford: FL-910S (check with dealer for specific application)
  • Fram: PH2 (2.3L, 3.0L), CH12670 (3.3L)
  • Wix: 57502 (2.3L, 3.0L), WL10010 (3.3L)
  • Mobil 1: M1-102A (2.3L, 3.0L), M1C-251A (3.3L)

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

Ford recommends an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or every 6-12 months, whichever comes first. This interval can vary significantly based on driving conditions.

• Normal Duty: For most drivers, 7,500 to 10,000 miles is acceptable.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently drive in dusty conditions, tow heavy loads, drive mostly short trips, or idle for extended periods, Ford recommends changing your oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months.

Drain Plug Torque

• Drain Plug Torque: 19 ft-lbs (25 Nm) on all engine options for the 2021 Ford Explorer.
• Crush Washer: Always replace the crush washer or drain plug gasket with a new one during every oil change to prevent leaks. The OEM Ford drain plug gasket is typically part number BC3Z-6734-A, but confirm with your dealer.

How to Change the Oil

1. Warm the Engine: Drive the vehicle for 5-10 minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature, ensuring it drains more easily.
2. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Always use proper safety precautions.
3. Locate Drain Plug: Place a suitable drain pan underneath the oil pan.
4. Drain Oil: Carefully remove the drain plug and allow all the old oil to drain completely. Inspect the drain plug and replace the crush washer.
5. Replace Filter: Locate and remove the old oil filter. Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new filter before threading it on by hand. Tighten according to the filter manufacturer's instructions (usually 3/4 to 1 full turn after the gasket contacts the housing).
6. Refill Oil: Once the oil has drained, reinstall the drain plug and torque it to spec. Lower the vehicle. Remove the oil fill cap and add the recommended amount of new oil.
7. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and then check the oil level on the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
8. Reset Monitor: Reset the oil life monitoring system according to your owner's manual.

Common Issues / Tips for this Generation (6th Gen - CD6 Platform)

• Plastic Oil Pan (3.3L Hybrid/Non-Hybrid): Some 3.3L engines utilize a plastic oil pan. Exercise caution when removing and torquing the drain plug to avoid stripping or cracking the pan.
• Oil Filter Location: On EcoBoost engines, the oil filter is typically easily accessible. On the 3.3L engines, the filter can sometimes be more challenging to reach, often requiring a cap-style wrench.
• Oil Life Monitor (OLM): The 2021 Ford Explorer uses an Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor. Do not rely solely on mileage; the OLM takes into account various factors to determine when an oil change is due. Always reset it after an oil change.
• Proper Disposal: Always dispose of used engine oil and filters responsibly at a certified recycling facility.

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