For the 2013 Explorer, the typical oil capacity is about 5.7 quarts of engine oil with a filter.
The exact amount depends on the engine and configuration. The most common setup in the U.S. market is the 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6, which Ford specifies at roughly 5.7 quarts when performing a standard drain-and-fill. Use 5W-20 oil unless the owner’s manual or a dealer specifies otherwise. After a change, run the engine to operating temperature, recheck the level, and add oil in small increments to reach the full mark on the dipstick.
Engine options and capacity
The 2013 Explorer lineup in the U.S. centers on the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 as the standard engine. The official capacity for this engine is around 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) with a filter. Oil grade is commonly 5W-20 for typical temperatures.
3.5L Ti-VCT V6
Oil capacity: approximately 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) with the oil filter. Recommended oil: 5W-20. After changing oil, fill to the full mark on the dipstick, run the engine briefly, recheck and adjust as needed.
Other engines
If your 2013 Explorer uses a different engine (for example, in markets outside the U.S.), capacity figures can differ. Check the owner's manual or consult a Ford dealer to confirm the exact oil capacity and spec for your powertrain.
Maintenance tips and best practices
General oil-change steps include draining old oil, replacing the filter, adding the correct amount of new oil gradually, starting the engine, letting it run briefly, then rechecking the level with the dipstick. Use the recommended viscosity and grade as specified for your engine and climate.
Summary
The typical oil capacity for a 2013 Ford Explorer with the common 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 is about 5.7 quarts of engine oil with a filter, using 5W-20. Always verify with the dipstick and the owner’s manual, particularly if your vehicle has a different engine or trim configuration.
What are the most common Explorer repairs?
Top Ford Explorer Problems
- A Cosmetic Crack May Develop on the Liftgate.
- Heater Stuck on Hottest Setting Due to Broken Heater Blend Door.
- Worn Timing Chain Cassettes May Cause Rattling Noise From Engine.
- Plastic Intake Manifold May Crack Causing Coolant Leak.
- Rough Idle and Stalling.
How many quarts of oil does my 2013 Explorer take?
5 Quarts Synthetic oil. Diesel vehicles extra.
What kind of oil does a 2013 Ford Explorer 3.5 V6 take?
2011-2015 Explorer
3.5L EcoBoost V6: SAE 5W-30.
How much oil does a 3.5 L Ford Explorer take?
6.0 qt
Capacities and Specifications - 3.5L Duratec
| Item | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Engine oil (with oil filter) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) |
| Engine coolant (without trailer tow) | 13.1 qt (12.4 L) |
| Engine coolant (with trailer tow) | 13.4 qt (12.7 L) |
| Brake fluid | Between MIN/MAX on brake fluid reservoir |


