How to Choose the Oil and Fluids for a Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer mid-size SUV was first introduced in 1991. It's available in both two door and four door models, and the fluid recommendations don't vary greatly from other Ford SUVs. Here's how to choose the oil and fluids for all model years of the Ford Explorer.

Instructions

1

Maintain proper levels of transmission fluid with Motorcraft MERCON V automatic transmission fluid. Note that MERCON and MERCON V transmission fluids aren't interchangeable, and that using a non-recommended transmission fluid may result in damage to your transmission.

2

Fill your transfer case, as necessary, with Motorcraft MERCON automatic transmission fluid. As noted in Step 1, MERCON fluid isn't interchangeable with MERCON V.

3

Lubricate your front axle with Motorcraft SAE 80W90 premium rear axle lubricant. In most cases, the rear axle requires the same lubricant; however, if you have a 4.0L SOHC V6 engine and 3.73:1 or 4.10:1 rear axle ratio, or if you have a 5.0L V8 engine, use synthetic rear axle lubricant. Ford recommends Motorcraft SAE 75W140 high performance synthetic rear axle lubricant.

4

Mix Premium Engine Coolant with clean, drinkable or distilled water in equal parts. If you use non-distilled water, it must be "soft" or demineralized.

5

Add Additive Friction Modifier C8AZ-19B546-A or an equivalent that meets Ford specification EST-M2C118-A when completely refilling Traction-Lok axles.