Keeping the right oil in your Expedition isn’t just about smooth running—it protects turbos, maintains warranty coverage, and helps the truck hit its fuel‑economy targets. Below is every model year grouped by the oil viscosity Ford specifies in the owner’s manuals, starting with the newest generation. When Ford gives an “extreme cold” alternative, that’s noted too.
2022–2025 (Current Generation, 3.5L EcoBoost)
Oil type: SAE 5W‑30 meeting Ford spec WSS‑M2C961‑A1 (Motorcraft synthetic blend or full synthetic).
Extreme cold alternative: SAE 0W‑30 meeting WSS‑M2C963‑A1 (for −22°F / −30°C and below).
2018–2021 (All-EcoBoost Lineup)
Oil type: SAE 5W‑30 meeting Ford spec WSS‑M2C946‑A (Motorcraft synthetic blend or full synthetic).
Extreme cold alternative: SAE 0W‑30 meeting WSS‑M2C953‑A1.
2015–2017 (First EcoBoost Expedition)
Oil type: SAE 5W‑30 meeting Ford spec WSS‑M2C946‑A (Motorcraft synthetic blend or full synthetic).
2004–2014 (5.4L Triton V8 Era – plus 2009 refresh)
Oil type: SAE 5W‑20 meeting Ford spec WSS‑M2C930‑A (Motorcraft or equivalent). Ford repeatedly states 5W‑20 provides the best balance of durability and fuel economy for these engines.
2000–2003 (Early Second Generation)
Oil type: SAE 5W‑20 meeting Ford spec WSS‑M2C153‑H / WSS‑M2C930‑A (spec wording evolved, viscosity stayed 5W‑20).
1997–1999 (First Generation Launch Years)
Oil type: SAE 5W‑30 meeting Ford specs WSS‑M2C153‑F/G. These years pre‑date Ford’s shift to 5W‑20.
Quick Reference Summary
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5W‑30: 2015–2024 (and likely onward until Ford publishes a change)
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5W‑20: 2000–2014
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5W‑30: 1997–1999
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Cold‑climate alternatives: 0W‑30 for 2018+ trucks when ambient temps drop below −22°F/−30°C (per manuals)
Tip: Ford also recommends sticking with Motorcraft filters (e.g., FL‑500‑S on late models) or an equivalent that meets SAE/USCAR‑36.
Conclusion
Whether you’re maintaining a brand‑new EcoBoost or a first‑gen workhorse, matching the oil grade Ford specifies is the safest route for performance and warranty peace of mind. If you’re unsure, or your Expedition sees extreme heat, cold, towing, or high mileage, our service team at Jim Burke Ford can confirm the right viscosity and interval for your exact build and driving conditions. We’re here to help keep your Expedition running like it should—no guesswork required.