What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of synthetic oil, its benefits, and whether or not it’s the right choice for your Ford Explorer.
- Synthetic blend oil is a combination of synthetic and conventional oils, offering some of the benefits of synthetic oil at a lower cost.
- Ultimately, the best way to determine the right oil for your Ford Explorer is to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
The Ford Explorer is a popular SUV known for its versatility, ruggedness, and performance. When it comes to maintaining your Ford Explorer, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right type of oil. Synthetic oil has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many drivers wonder if it’s the best choice for their Ford Explorer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of synthetic oil, its benefits, and whether or not it’s the right choice for your Ford Explorer.
What is Synthetic Oil?
Synthetic oil is a type of lubricant that is chemically engineered to provide superior performance and protection compared to conventional oils. It is made from synthetic hydrocarbons and various additives that enhance its properties. Synthetic oil molecules are more uniform in size and shape, which reduces friction and wear on engine components.
Benefits of Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil offers several advantages over conventional oils, including:
- Enhanced Lubrication: Synthetic oil’s uniform molecular structure allows it to flow more easily and provide better lubrication to engine components, reducing friction and wear.
- Improved Engine Protection: Synthetic oil’s superior lubricating properties help protect engine components from wear and tear, extending the engine’s lifespan.
- Increased Fuel Efficiency: Synthetic oil’s reduced friction can lead to improved fuel efficiency, as the engine requires less energy to operate.
- Longer Oil Change Intervals: Synthetic oil can last significantly longer than conventional oil, allowing for extended oil change intervals as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Extreme Temperature Performance: Synthetic oil maintains its viscosity and performance even in extreme temperatures, making it suitable for various climates.
Does Ford Explorer Need Synthetic Oil?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the year of your Ford Explorer, the type of engine, and your driving conditions.
- For Ford Explorers manufactured before 2011: Conventional oil is typically recommended for these models. However, if you drive in extreme conditions or demand high performance from your vehicle, synthetic oil may be a better choice.
- For Ford Explorers manufactured after 2011: Ford recommends using synthetic blend oil for these models. Synthetic blend oil is a combination of synthetic and conventional oils, offering some of the benefits of synthetic oil at a lower cost.
- For Ford Explorers with EcoBoost engines: Ford recommends using full synthetic oil for these engines. Full synthetic oil provides the best protection and performance for EcoBoost engines.
When to Change Synthetic Oil in Ford Explorer
The recommended oil change interval for Ford Explorers varies depending on the year, model, and driving conditions. However, as a general guideline:
- For Ford Explorers manufactured before 2011: Oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3 to 6 months, whichever comes first.
- For Ford Explorers manufactured after 2011: Oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first.
Choosing the Right Synthetic Oil for Ford Explorer
When selecting synthetic oil for your Ford Explorer, consider the following factors:
- Viscosity: Choose the viscosity grade recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Common viscosities for Ford Explorers include 5W-20, 5W-30, and 10W-40.
- Brand: Choose a reputable oil brand that meets or exceeds Ford’s specifications. Some popular brands include Mobil 1, Castrol, and Pennzoil.
- Additives: Look for synthetic oils that contain additives that enhance performance and protection, such as anti-wear additives, detergents, and antioxidants.
Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil: Which is Better?
Synthetic oil offers several advantages over conventional oil, including:
- Better lubrication
- Improved engine protection
- Increased fuel efficiency
- Longer oil change intervals
- Extreme temperature performance
While synthetic oil is typically more expensive than conventional oil, its benefits often outweigh the cost.
The Final Verdict
Whether or not you should use synthetic oil in your Ford Explorer depends on several factors. If you have a Ford Explorer manufactured before 2011, you can use conventional oil or synthetic oil, depending on your driving conditions and performance demands. For Ford Explorers manufactured after 2011, Ford recommends using synthetic blend oil or full synthetic oil. Ultimately, the best way to determine the right oil for your Ford Explorer is to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What are the benefits of using synthetic oil in my Ford Explorer?
A: Synthetic oil offers several benefits, including enhanced lubrication, improved engine protection, increased fuel efficiency, longer oil change intervals, and extreme temperature performance.
Q: Does Ford recommend synthetic oil for my Ford Explorer?
A: Ford recommends using synthetic blend oil for Ford Explorers manufactured after 2011. For Ford Explorers with EcoBoost engines, Ford recommends using full synthetic oil.
Q: How often should I change the synthetic oil in my Ford Explorer?
A: The recommended oil change interval for Ford Explorers varies depending on the year, model, and driving conditions. However, as a general guideline, you should change the synthetic oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first.
