The Ford Taurus generally uses 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic-blend oil as the standard specification, but the exact oil type depends on the engine and model year. Always verify with the owner's manual or the oil fill cap on your engine for your specific car.
Understanding the oil you need
Choosing the right oil starts with the engine type and the climate you drive in. The Taurus lineup has included several engines over the years, from naturally aspirated V6s to EcoBoost turbocharged engines. The manual lists the correct viscosity, and the cap typically marks the preferred grade. If your car is high-mileage or operated in extreme heat or cold, there may be alternative viscosities noted by Ford.
Common oil types and viscosities for Taurus engines
Use the following as a general guide. Always verify for your specific year and engine before an oil change.
- 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic-blend motor oil — the default specification for most recent Taurus models.
- 5W-30 — may be acceptable in hot climates or under certain conditions as allowed by the owner's manual.
- Viscosity and oil standard requirements — oils should meet API service categories appropriate for new engines and Ford specification guidance; many Taurus engines benefit from a full synthetic oil for extended change intervals.
In practice, owners often use 5W-20 full synthetic when following Ford's latest service schedules, with some variants permitting 5W-30 depending on ambient temperature and driving conditions.
Engine-specific notes
Taurus with the 3.5L V6 Ti-VCT
This common engine in mid-2010s Taurus models typically uses 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic blend oil. Check the owner's manual for the exact requirement for your year and trim.
Taurus with the 2.0L EcoBoost
Taurus SHO and other high-performance variants
How to confirm the correct oil for your car
To be sure, follow these steps:
- Consult the owner's manual for the exact viscosity and oil specification required for your engine and year.
- Check the oil filler cap on the engine for the grade listed there.
- If in doubt, contact a Ford dealer or a trusted service professional with your VIN to pull the exact specification for your car.
Following the correct specification helps maintain engine protection and avoids warranty issues.
Oil change intervals and quality
Oil types and intervals vary by oil type and driving conditions. Generally, synthetic oils allow longer change intervals (often around 7,500 miles or more), while conventional oils need more frequent changes (roughly 3,000–5,000 miles). Ford's current service schedules will provide the precise interval for your Taurus based on the oil type you choose and your driving conditions.
Summary
For most Ford Taurus models, 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic-blend oil is the default specification. Always verify with the owner's manual, the oil cap, or a dealer for your exact year and engine, especially if you own a high-performance SHO variant. Using the correct oil ensures optimal lubrication and engine longevity.
Can you put 5W-30 in a Ford Taurus?
Give your higher mileage engine the care it deserves with Mobil 1 High Mileage full-synthetic motor oil 5W-30.
Is 5W-20 or 5W-30 better for high mileage?
Key Differences: 5W30 vs 5W20
5W30 offers better high-temperature protection. It's great for towing, highway driving, or older engines, especially for drivers in Frandor and Lansing who use their vehicles for more than just errands. 5W20 is thinner and generally suited for newer engines that prioritize efficiency.
What kind of oil goes in a Ford Taurus?
Advanced Eurol Evolence 5W30 fully synthetic oil meets or exceeds the recommended API SP Recourse Conserving, API SN Plus, & ILSAC GF-6A oil specifications. Equivalent to Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 oil quality specification required for 2010-2019 Ford Taurus SHO models with the 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine.
What oil does my 2016 Ford Taurus take?
SAE 5W‑20
What type of oil does a 2016 Ford Taurus take? The 3.5L V6 in the 2016 Ford Taurus typically uses an API‑approved, Ford‑spec full synthetic oil—many owners use SAE 5W‑20; always confirm the exact spec in your owner's manual.