SparkyLU26

I bought a 2014 stx and coming up on the first oil change. In assuming the factory put synthetic in it since the truck is giving me a 10,000 mile oil change recommendation. I've never used synthetic before. What should I look for? Also is 10k a safe interval? Truck is a v8 5.0

HeathMc

I'm sure it's synthetic. And there's no way I would ever go 10k between oil changes. I'd bet it requires synthetic. I think they say 10k to keep them good in the eyes of consumer reports. I think you could easily get 100k miles with 10k oil changes but it would probably shorten the life of the vehicle in the high mileage years. Just my opinion.

Ricktwuhk

Never asked before. ...

Manual?

Batman420

It's synthetic BLEND. check the owners manual. I switched to Mobil 1 full synthetic when I did my 1st oil change. Napa had it for $5 a pop.

SparkyLU26

How often would you change it? The reason I say 10k is because my truck has that "oil life" sensor and when I hit 5k miles it said 50% oil life. I'm ~ 6k right now and thinking of changing it this weekend.

So it would be a good idea to switch to full synthetic?

JCR 56

I would use the Motorcraft syn-blend, change it at around 5,000 miles, and be done with it. I don't understand people that will spend an absolute fortune on these rigs and then want to skimp on the goddamn oil changes, one of the least expensive most important things you can do for it.

HeathMc

I believe oil changes can vary on the way you drive it. If you crank your vehicle and drive 5 miles and then turn it off day after day I'd probably do it around every 3000. If you have a 20 mile or longer commute each way then I'd do it about every 5000, but 5000 would be my max. I'd only run the oil from the factory for a 1500 miles for the first change just in case they missed any shavings or dirt from the manufacture clean out. One think I would recommend is that when you pick a oil say Castrol syn, stick with it. Each oil manufacture has different additives that they add to oil IMO it's best to stay with one oil. And last I'd bet that your vehicle requires at least a synthetic blend, if not full. I know some people run the synthetic a little longer because it's man made and it doesnt break down as fast. It's your truck so decide whats best for you. If your gonna drive it 100k miles and trade it in then change the oil whenever you want. Just dont let it run low. If you are going to keep the truck for a while then I wouldn't go over 5000 miles.

fueler11

I agree with the above, and I've read up on this forum for various oil posts with the 5.0 liter. From what I've read the Motorcraft 5w20 blend the dealer sells is a good oil as far as blends go. Guys/shops that have torn engines apart see very little signs of wear from engines that have used that oil. I searched bobistheoilguy forums for what to use on my truck. There isn't a lot on there, but they don't bash the Motorcraft 5w20 blend though. That's where I found the good reviews on it.


On my 2014 5.0 I had the dealer use the 5w20 blend for my first and only free one at 1000 miles. I have Amsoil synthetic ready for the next oil change though.

Platinum T.C.

I have used Ford Dealer Oil for many, many years. No issues.
I would change my oil every 3500 or less than 5,000 miles & forget you have a book.
Also rotate your tires at every oil change.
Pay now or Pay later.
You will Pay, one way or another.
Your Engine is you Trucks Heart. Take care of your Heart!

sdmartin65

The posts above are pretty much in line with decent maintenance.




This image is from the manual. I think the oil monitor that defaults to 10k is proving not to be a smart move. Read a thread from a fleet operator with 50 2011 EB that was having timing chains go at 80k. Seems like it was 10 or so trucks to date. I bet it won't be long until they reduce the default oil life setting. Some folks think no matter how the truck is used they can run 10k oil changes.