Oil Change for a 2017 Ford F-150
30 March, 2025 | Grok 3 | DeepSearch | 1 minute 1 second | 27 Sources | Minor edits to accommodate table
Explain the process of changing the oil in a 2017 Ford F-150 with a 5.0L V8 engine. Describe the process step by step. What specific oil do I need and how much of it is required? What other tools and equipment will be necessary to complete this task?
Key Points
It seems likely that changing the oil in a 2017 Ford F-150 with a 5.0L V8 engine involves draining old oil, replacing the filter, and adding new oil, with specific tools and oil type required.
Research suggests using SAE 5W-20 oil, with a capacity of about 7.7 quarts, and a Motorcraft FL-500S oil filter or equivalent.
The evidence leans toward needing an oil drain pan, 15mm wrench, oil filter wrench, new oil, filter, funnel, rag, and optionally a torque wrench.
Step-by-Step Process
Preparation:
Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, warm up the engine briefly, then turn it off and let it settle.
Draining Old Oil:
Locate the 15mm drain plug under the oil pan, place a drain pan below, unscrew the plug, and let the oil drain completely.
Replacing the Oil Filter:
Find the oil filter on the engine side, use a wrench to remove the old one, clean the area, lubricate the new filter’s gasket, and install it by hand until snug.
Reinstalling and Refilling:
Tighten the drain plug (about 25-30 ft-lbs if using a torque wrench), add 7.7 quarts of SAE 5W-20 oil, run the engine briefly, check the dipstick, and top up if needed.
Check for leaks around the drain plug and filter.
Specific Requirements
Oil Type: SAE 5W-20, preferably Motorcraft or equivalent meeting Ford specs.
Oil Quantity: Approximately 7.7 quarts, but check the dipstick as some users report needing slightly more.
Oil Filter: Motorcraft FL-500S or equivalent.
Tools Needed: Oil drain pan, 15mm socket/wrench, oil filter wrench, funnel, rag, new oil, new filter, and optionally a torque wrench.
Unexpected Detail
Some users mention adding more than 7.7 quarts to reach the full mark on the dipstick, which is higher than the official capacity, suggesting individual variation.
Detailed Survey Note: Comprehensive Guide to Oil Change for 2017 Ford F-150 5.0L V8
This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at changing the oil in a 2017 Ford F-150 equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine, addressing the step-by-step process, specific oil requirements, quantity, and necessary tools and equipment. The information is derived from various online sources, including automotive forums, manufacturer recommendations, and expert guides, ensuring a thorough understanding for vehicle owners.
Background and Importance
Changing engine oil is a critical maintenance task that ensures the longevity and performance of the engine. For the 2017 Ford F-150 with a 5.0L V8, regular oil changes help lubricate engine parts, protect against corrosion, and maintain fuel economy. The process involves draining old oil, replacing the oil filter, and refilling with fresh oil, all while using the correct specifications to avoid potential damage.
Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure
The process begins with preparation and follows a systematic approach to ensure safety and efficiency:
Preparation:
Park the vehicle on a level surface to ensure accurate oil level readings later. Engage the parking brake for safety.
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the oil, which helps it flow more easily during draining. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle in the pan.
Draining the Old Oil:
Locate the oil drain plug, typically a 15mm hex bolt, on the underside of the oil pan. Position an oil drain pan beneath it to catch the old oil.
Unscrew the drain plug using a 15mm socket or wrench, allowing the oil to drain completely into the pan. This step may take several minutes, so ensure the pan is large enough to hold at least 8 quarts to account for any overflow.
Replacing the Oil Filter:
While the oil is draining, locate the oil filter, usually mounted on the side of the engine. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter, being careful as it may still contain some oil.
Clean the filter mounting surface with a rag to remove any debris or old gasket material. Apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter to ensure a proper seal.
Install the new oil filter by hand, turning it clockwise until it’s snug. Do not overtighten, as hand-tight is usually sufficient.
Reinstalling the Drain Plug and Refilling:
Once the oil has drained completely, reinstall the drain plug and tighten it. For precision, use a torque wrench to tighten to approximately 25-30 ft-lbs, though hand-tightening with a wrench is often adequate for most users.
Use a funnel to pour 7.7 quarts of new SAE 5W-20 oil into the engine through the oil filler cap, located on the top of the engine. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil throughout the system.
Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and check the oil level using the dipstick. If it’s below the full mark, add small amounts of oil (e.g., 0.25 quarts at a time) and recheck until it reaches the full mark. Note that some users have reported needing slightly more than 7.7 quarts to reach the full mark, possibly due to variations in engine design or measurement.
Final Checks:
Inspect the area around the drain plug and oil filter for any leaks. If leaks are present, tighten the components as needed or consult a professional if the issue persists.
Dispose of the old oil and filter responsibly, typically at a local auto parts store or recycling center, as used oil is hazardous waste.
Specific Oil and Filter Requirements
The choice of oil and filter is crucial for maintaining engine health. Based on manufacturer recommendations and user reports:
Oil Type: The recommended oil is SAE 5W-20, with Ford specifically endorsing Motorcraft oil or equivalents that meet API SN requirements and display the API Certification Mark. This viscosity is designed for optimal performance in the 5.0L V8, especially in varying temperatures. Some sources also mention SAE 5W-30 as an option, but for the 5.0L, 5W-20 is standard.
Oil Quantity: The engine oil capacity is officially listed as 7.7 quarts (approximately 7.3 liters), but user experiences suggest checking the dipstick after filling, as some may need slightly more to reach the full mark, possibly due to oil cooler systems or pan design differences.
Oil Filter: The recommended oil filter is Motorcraft FL-500S, known for its compatibility with Ford vehicles. Equivalents from other brands, such as those meeting OEM specifications, are also acceptable, ensuring high flow rates and contaminant removal.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To complete the oil change, the following tools and equipment are necessary:
Additional items, such as gloves for handling oil and a jack or jack stands for easier access (though often unnecessary for this model), may be useful but are not strictly required.
Unexpected Observations
An interesting finding is the variation in oil capacity reported by users. While the official capacity is 7.7 quarts, some forum discussions indicate that owners added up to 8 quarts to reach the full mark on the dipstick, suggesting potential differences in engine configurations, oil pan designs, or measurement techniques. This highlights the importance of checking the dipstick post-fill, especially for DIY oil changes.
Supporting Evidence and User Insights
Multiple sources confirm the oil specifications and process. For instance, The Weekend Mechanic provides a detailed guide for 2011-2017 models, aligning with the steps outlined. Ford Spring Hill reinforces the use of SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, with 5W-20 being standard for the 5.0L V8. User forums, such as those on Ford F150 Forum, discuss practical experiences, noting the need for slight adjustments beyond 7.7 quarts in some cases.
The oil filter recommendation, Motorcraft FL-500S, is consistent across sources, ensuring compatibility and performance. The tools listed are standard for most oil changes, with the torque wrench being optional for those seeking precision, as hand-tightening is often sufficient for casual maintenance.
Conclusion
Changing the oil in a 2017 Ford F-150 with a 5.0L V8 engine is a manageable task with the right preparation and tools. Using SAE 5W-20 oil, approximately 7.7 quarts, and a Motorcraft FL-500S filter, along with the listed equipment, ensures the engine remains in top condition. Always check the dipstick after filling to account for any variations, and dispose of old oil responsibly to protect the environment.