Your Explorer's Thirst: How Much Oil Does It Really Need?
Exactly how much oil does a 2017 Ford Explorer take? For most models, the 2017 Ford Explorer requires 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) of synthetic blend or full synthetic motor oil, typically 5W-30 viscosity, but this can vary slightly based on the specific engine installed.
- 5.7 quarts (5.4L) is the standard oil capacity.
- Always confirm your engine variant for precise needs.
- Use 5W-30 viscosity motor oil for best results.
- Check the dipstick after filling to ensure correct level.
Imagine this scenario: You've just bought your trusty 2017 Ford Explorer, ready for all your family adventures, from grocery runs to weekend getaways. Keeping it running smoothly means paying attention to the little things, and one of the most fundamental is the engine oil. It's not just about topping it up; it’s about giving your engine the exact amount of lifeblood it needs to perform optimally and resist wear over thousands of miles. Too little, and you risk vital components grinding against each other. Too much, and you can cause the engine to churn the oil excessively, leading to foaming and reduced lubrication, which can be just as detrimental.
The specific capacity isn't a one-size-fits-all number, though. Ford offered a couple of engine choices for the 2017 model year Explorer, and each has a slightly different appetite for oil. This small detail can make a big difference in your DIY oil change or when you're double-checking the mechanic's work. Understanding these nuances is part of the ownership experience, turning a routine task into a moment of connection with your vehicle. It's the little things that truly count when it comes to maintaining a complex machine like your SUV.
The Importance of the Right Oil Level
Your engine oil is the unsung hero of your vehicle's health. It circulates throughout your engine, lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, cleaning away debris, cooling critical components, and preventing corrosion. Without the correct amount of oil, these functions falter. A low oil level means the oil pump might suck air, starving parts of lubrication. A high oil level can cause the crankshaft to spin faster, whipping the oil into a frothy mess that loses its protective properties and can even lead to oil splashing onto exhaust components, posing a fire risk in extreme cases.
It's easy to think of oil capacity as just a number on a maintenance chart, but it’s directly tied to your engine’s ability to survive the heat and pressure it endures every single time you turn the key. For a vehicle like the 2017 Explorer, designed for versatility and family duty, ensuring this fundamental aspect is perfect means greater reliability on the road. Consider it your personal automotive guide’s first tip: accuracy here saves headaches later.
Your engine, your story. Making sure you’re using the right amount of the right oil is a direct investment in that story.
Pro-Tip: Always double-check your owner's manual for the exact oil capacity and recommended oil type for your specific 2017 Ford Explorer trim and engine. While 5.7 quarts and 5W-30 is common, variations exist.
Engine Variants and Their Oil Quotas
So, what’s the actual story behind the 5.7-quart figure? For the 2017 Ford Explorer, this capacity generally applies to the two most common engine options: the 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4 and the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6. These engines are the workhorses that power most Explorers on the road.
When you perform an oil change, it's not just about draining the old oil and pouring in a fresh batch. You're also dealing with the oil filter. Removing the old filter and installing a new one will hold a small amount of oil itself, typically around 0.5 quarts. Therefore, when you fill with 5.7 quarts, you're accounting for the oil in the filter and the crankcase. If you were to change only the oil and not the filter (which is rarely recommended), you might need slightly less, but for a complete service, the 5.7-quart figure is standard.
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Exception
Now, there was a higher-performance engine option available: the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, often found in the Sport and Platinum trims. This potent powerplant has a slightly different oil requirement. For the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, the oil capacity jumps to 6.8 quarts (6.4 liters). This increased volume is necessary to keep its turbocharged, higher-output heart lubricated and cool under demanding conditions.
It’s easy to overlook this distinction, especially if you’re not intimately familiar with your specific trim level. But this difference – 5.7 quarts versus 6.8 quarts – is significant. Pouring only 5.7 quarts into the 3.5L EcoBoost would leave you nearly 1.1 quarts short, leading to the lubrication issues we discussed earlier. Conversely, overfilling the 2.3L or standard 3.5L V6 with 6.8 quarts could also cause problems.
It's the little things that truly count. Getting this detail right is foundational to engine health.
Therefore, the first crucial step before you grab your oil jug is to identify your exact engine. A quick peek under the hood, a check of your vehicle's documentation, or consulting an online VIN decoder can confirm whether you have the 2.3L EcoBoost, the standard 3.5L V6, or the more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost V6. This piece of knowledge empowers you to buy the right amount of oil, ensuring your maintenance is spot-on.
Discover your engine type by looking for specific badging on the engine cover or tailgate, or consult your owner's manual – it’s the definitive source for your Explorer's specifications.
Make sure you're investing in the correct quantity of oil for your specific engine variant; it's a critical detail for longevity.
Beyond Capacity: Oil Type and When to Change It
You've figured out how much oil your 2017 Ford Explorer needs. Great! But that's only part of the oil change puzzle. The type of oil and the schedule for changing it are equally vital for your engine’s well-being.
For the 2017 Explorer, Ford typically recommends a 5W-30 viscosity motor oil. This specification is a balance of flow characteristics at cold temperatures (the '5W' part) and protective thickness at operating temperatures (the '30' part). You'll find that most manufacturers, including Ford, have moved towards synthetic or synthetic blend oils for modern engines. These offer superior performance, better protection against extreme temperatures, and longer drain intervals compared to conventional oils. While conventional oil might be cheaper upfront, the benefits of synthetic oil – like better resistance to breakdown and improved lubrication under stress – often outweigh the initial cost, especially for engines like those in the Explorer that can handle higher mileage and diverse driving conditions.
Common Misconceptions About Oil Changes
One common misconception is that you need to change your oil every 3,000 miles, regardless of the oil type or your driving habits. This old rule of thumb originated when engines and oils were far less sophisticated. Today, with synthetic oils and advanced engine designs, many vehicles, including the 2017 Explorer, can safely go much longer between changes. Ford's recommended interval for the 2017 Explorer is often around 7,500 to 10,000 miles, or every 12 months, whichever comes first, especially when using synthetic oil and under normal driving conditions. However, if you frequently drive in severe conditions (e.g., extreme temperatures, frequent short trips, towing, dusty environments), you might need to shorten that interval.
Another myth is that 'more expensive oil' is always 'better'. While premium synthetic oils do offer enhanced benefits, the key is using oil that meets Ford’s specific requirements (like the API service category and the SAE viscosity grade) and the correct capacity. Overpaying for oil that doesn't meet specs, or using an oil with an inappropriate viscosity, won't help your engine. Conversely, using the specified 5W-30 synthetic oil at the correct capacity is the optimal choice.
The true cost of an oil change isn't just the motor oil price; it's the cost of preventing premature engine wear and ensuring consistent performance.
When it comes to affordability, if you're looking for where's the cheapest place to get an oil change, DIY is often the winner. However, if you prefer professional service, comparing prices at places like Firestone, Grease Monkey, or Valvoline can yield savings. Remember to factor in the quality of the oil and filter used. A slightly higher cost for a premium synthetic oil and a reputable filter at a trusted shop like Valvoline can be a wise investment compared to the rock-bottom prices that might use lower-grade products.
Consider it your personal automotive guide. Staying informed about oil type and schedule saves money and hassle.
Pro-Tip: Reset your Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor after each oil change. This system in your 2017 Explorer tracks your driving conditions and helps calculate the optimal time for your next oil change, often exceeding 7,500 miles.
DIY Oil Change: A Step-by-Step for Your Explorer
Ready to get your hands dirty and tackle an oil change yourself? It’s a rewarding process that not only saves money but also gives you a direct connection to your vehicle’s maintenance. For your 2017 Ford Explorer, the DIY oil change is quite manageable, especially if you know the capacity and have the right tools.
First, gather your supplies: the correct amount of 5W-30 synthetic motor oil (5.7 quarts for 2.3L/3.5L V6, 6.8 quarts for 3.5L EcoBoost V6), a new oil filter compatible with your engine, a new drain plug gasket, a wrench for the drain plug, a socket wrench for the oil filter, a drain pan, a funnel, gloves, and safety glasses. You’ll also need a way to lift your vehicle safely, such as ramps or jack stands.
The Process Unpacked
1. Warm Up the Engine: Run your Explorer for about 5-10 minutes. A warm engine allows the oil to flow more easily, carrying more contaminants out with it.
2. Safety First: Park on a level surface. If using jack stands, ensure they are properly placed and the vehicle is stable. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
3. Locate Drain Plug and Filter: Look under the engine. The oil pan has a drain plug, usually at the lowest point. The oil filter is a cylindrical canister screwed into the engine block.
4. Drain the Oil: Place the drain pan beneath the plug. Carefully loosen and remove the drain plug with your wrench. Let all the old oil drain out completely. This can take several minutes. Once drained, clean the plug and install a new gasket, then screw the plug back in hand-tight before using the wrench to snug it up. Be careful not to overtighten.
5. Replace the Oil Filter: Position the drain pan under the oil filter. Use your oil filter wrench to loosen it. Once loose, unscrew it by hand. Be prepared for some oil to spill out. Before installing the new filter, lightly coat the rubber gasket on the new filter with a bit of fresh oil. Screw the new filter on hand-tight until the gasket makes contact, then give it about three-quarters of a turn more. Some manufacturers recommend filling the new filter with oil before installation; check your filter's instructions.
6. Add New Oil: Remove the oil fill cap from the top of the engine. Insert your funnel and pour in the correct amount of new oil based on your engine type. Start with about half a quart less than the full capacity.
7. Check the Level: Replace the oil fill cap. Start the engine and let it run for about a minute. Check for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. Shut off the engine and wait 5-10 minutes for the oil to settle. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the oil level. It should be between the 'add' and 'full' marks. Add oil in small increments, rechecking the dipstick each time, until the level is at the 'full' mark. Never overfill your engine.
8. Final Check and Cleanup: Once the level is correct, ensure the oil fill cap and dipstick are secure. Dispose of the old oil and filter responsibly at a recycling center. Reset your Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor.
This process, while detailed, is straightforward once you've done it. It's a proactive step for maintaining your 2017 Ford Explorer's health, ensuring it’s ready for whatever journey you have planned.