When To Change Your Oil
Simply put, changing your oil and filter is the single most important maintenance you can have done for your vehicle.
Engine oil lubricates and protects the components in your engine. Without it, the metal-on-metal contact that results can severely damage your vehicle’s engine. If dirt or other particles build up in the oil, they can scratch or damage vital components.
Regular oil and filter changes help your vehicle operate at its most efficient. In fact, using the proper grade of oil recommended by your Owner's Manual can improve your gas mileage by as much as 2%.
Ford Motor Company generally recommends getting an oil change every 7,500 miles or every six months for 2008 and newer model year vehicles, whichever comes first, or every 5,000 miles or every six months for 2007 and older model year vehicles, whichever comes first.
However, you should change your oil and filter more often – every 5,000 miles or every six months for 2008 and newer model year vehicles, whichever comes first, or every 3,000 miles or every three months for 2007 and older model year vehicles, whichever comes first – if you do any of the following:
- Tow or carry heavy loads
- Idle or drive at low speeds for long distances
- Drive in dusty conditions
- Drive off road frequently
- Use E85 fuel more than 50% of the time
If you have any questions about the recommended oil change intervals for your specific vehicle, be sure to check your Owner's Manual.
The experts at your local Ford or Lincoln Dealership have the recommended grade of Motorcraft® oil and the right Motorcraft® filters on hand for your vehicle. Plus, their Ford Motor Company-trained technicians can perform a Multi-Point Inspection to make sure the rest of your vehicle’s critical systems are operating at peak performance.
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*Sources: fueleconomy.gov, ftc.gov, epa.gov, drivingskillsforlife.com.
Vehicle Care
- How To Clean Your Vehicle
- How To Preserve Your Vehicle’s Value
- How To Keep Your Battery Well Maintained
- How To Keep Your Tires In Shape
- Getting Maintenance At The Dealership
- 2011 Super Duty® Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor™ and Diesel Exhaust Fluid
- How to Spot Battery Wear
- How To Spot Brake Wear
- How To Spot Shock And Strut Wear
- When To Change Your Oil
- When To Change Your Air Filter
- When To Change Your Fuel Filter
- When To Change Your Cabin Air Filter
- Keeping Your Engine In Top Shape
• Fluid Top-Off
• Battery Test
• Filter Check
• Belts and Hoses Check
