The 2017 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 is a powerful midsize SUV designed for family comfort, towing capability, and highway performance. However, like all modern Ford engines, it requires correct oil specification and timely maintenance to ensure long engine life and smooth performance.
Whether your Explorer is equipped with the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 (NA) or the 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, using the correct oil type and maintaining proper service intervals is critical to avoid engine wear, sludge buildup, and turbo damage.
In this guide, you’ll find complete details about 2017 Ford Explorer 3.5 oil type, oil capacity, oil change interval, oil filter, and maintenance cost.
2017 Ford Explorer 3.5 Engine Oil Type
The correct oil type depends on engine variant. Ford recommends different viscosities for naturally aspirated and EcoBoost engines.
- 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 (NA engine): SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6: SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil
- Specification: API SN / SP or ILSAC GF-5 or higher
For most driving conditions, full synthetic oil is strongly recommended to ensure turbo protection and long engine life.
Best Choice: SAE 5W-20 (NA engine) or 5W-30 (EcoBoost) full synthetic oil for maximum protection.
2017 Ford Explorer 3.5 Engine Oil Capacity
Oil capacity remains similar across engine variants, but always verify with dipstick after filling.
- Oil capacity (with filter): ~6 quarts (5.7 liters)
- EcoBoost models: 6 quarts recommended service fill
Best Engine Oil for Ford Explorer 3.5
- Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-20 / 5W-30
- Castrol EDGE Full Synthetic
- Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic
- Motorcraft SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Blend
- Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic
2017 Ford Explorer Oil Change Interval
Ford’s oil life monitoring system is helpful, but real-world driving conditions often require earlier changes.
- Normal driving: 7,500 – 10,000 miles
- Heavy towing / SUV use: 5,000 – 7,000 miles
- Severe conditions (heat, traffic, dust): 3,000 – 5,000 miles
Regular oil changes are especially important for EcoBoost engines due to turbocharger heat stress.
2017 Ford Explorer Oil Change Cost
Common Ford Explorer 3.5 Oil-Related Problems
Turbo Wear (EcoBoost)
Dirty or low-quality oil can damage turbochargers over time.
Oil Consumption
High mileage engines may start consuming oil gradually.
Timing Chain Wear
Long oil change intervals can accelerate timing chain and cam phaser wear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What oil does a 2017 Ford Explorer 3.5 use?
It uses SAE 5W-20 (NA engine) or 5W-30 (EcoBoost) full synthetic oil.
How much oil does a 2017 Ford Explorer take?
It takes approximately 6 quarts with filter.
Can I use full synthetic oil?
Yes, full synthetic oil is strongly recommended for better protection.
How often should oil be changed?
Every 5,000–10,000 miles depending on driving conditions.
Final Thoughts
The 2017 Ford Explorer 3.5L engine is reliable when properly maintained. Using correct Ford-approved oil and following shorter oil change intervals ensures better performance, reduced wear, and longer engine life.