Oil Changes for 1996 Ford Explorer

Get Your Ford Explorer Oil Changed

Help your 1996 Explorer engine last longer with regular oil changes and lube service. Schedule an appointment now!

How Often to Change 1996 Ford Explorer Oil

Need more info about 1996 Ford Explorer oil changes? Turn to Firestone Complete Auto Care! We are experts in car care — not just tires. We know all about motor oil, too. After all, like our maintenance technician Brianna says, “Oil is the blood of the engine. It’s the #1 thing you can do for your car.”

Ford recommends having your 1996 Ford Explorer’s motor oil changed at regular intervals. Check the interval for your vehicle mileage in the table above. Outside of Ford-recommended oil change intervals, your Explorer may need an oil change if your check engine light is on, you hear engine knocking, smell oil inside the vehicle, or notice excess vehicle exhaust. You might need an oil change more frequently than what’s recommended by Ford if you regularly haul heavy loads, drive in dusty areas, adventure off-road, or go long distances at low speeds. More frequent oil changes generally won't harm your Ford Explorer. In fact, every oil change is an opportunity to diagnose and treat any other issues, such as bad brakes or a failing battery.

What Kind of Oil Should I Get for My Ford Explorer?

Whether you need high mileage oil, synthetic oil, or conventional oil, you'll find the right 1996 Ford Explorer motor oil at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Ford has most likely outlined either synthetic or conventional as the ideal engine oil for your 1996 Explorer. Motor oil reduces friction between engine components, keep the engine cool, and prevent the build-up of harmful substances within the engine. In an oil change service, one of our techs will change your Explorer’s oil, replace and recycle your used oil and filter, inspect all of your other filters, refill vital car fluids, and visually inspect the rest of the vehicle. You can drive with confidence knowing that we look out for you and your Explorer by taking into account your driving style, and the number of miles on your odometer.

Types of Motor Oil for Fords

Wondering if we carry the right motor oil for your Ford? We stock outstanding motor oils because that's what your engine deserves. Check your owner's manual and talk with a technician to select the right Ford Explorer oil, whether it's Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® motor oil, Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oil with PurePlus™ Technology, or Shell Rotella® heavy-duty engine oil. There are plenty of motor oils on the market today, so why do we prefer these brands? They are proven winners. For example, Pennzoil Synthetics are the most technologically advanced, fully formulated motor oils available and exceed current industry and manufacturer requirements. Then there's Shell Rotella heavy-duty engine oil. It's specifically designed for diesel and gasoline engines that need to overcome the strenuous working conditions, and is fortified to deliver improved oxidation resistance, heightened performance in extreme temperatures, and increased wear protection. Always refer to Ford's recommendations before going with a new or different motor oil for your 1996 Ford Explorer.

Where to Go for 1996 Ford Explorer Oil Change

When the time for your Explorer’s next oil change rolls around, you know where to turn. Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care carries some of the most reliable engine oils for Ford vehicles. We’ve got convenient appointment times to take care of you, with the right motor oil at the right price. To find out how much a 1996 Explorer oil change costs, call ahead. Let the experts take care of your Explorer’s engine by making an oil change appointment today. Many stores offer extended and weekend openings for your convenience.

[1] ILSAC GF-5 represents the latest performance standard set by the International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC), a joint effort of U.S. and Japanese automobile manufacturers. Most automobile manufacturers are expected to recommend oils that meet ILSAC GF-5. API SN is the most recent service category issued by API’s Lubricants Group. Oils meeting API SN and the new “Resource Conserving” designation meet all ILSAC GF-5 performance requirements.

1996 Ford Explorer Oil Change Questions

  • Should I check my Ford Explorer motor oil level? Engine oil is a lubricant for the moving parts in your engine. If you're low or out of oil, these parts can grind together, generate too much heat, and eventually lead to Ford Explorer engine failure. That’s why it’s best to check your oil levels and get your oil changed regularly.
  • How hard is it to change Ford Explorer oil at home? Changing engine oil at home isn’t as simple as it’s made out to be. You’ll have to buy special tools and figure out a way to recycle the old oil properly. Getting a professional oil change reduces the risk of something going wrong during the service, but also with your vehicle down the road.
  • Why is my Ford Explorer spewing blue or gray exhaust smoke? You could have an oil leak and have a case of burning oil. It may be time for a pro to take a look. A leak can be caused by a variety of issues including faulty valve seals, fried piston rings, or old cylinder walls.
  • Who offers Ford Explorer oil changes? Turn to Firestone Complete Auto Care for Ford Explorer oil changes. In addition to changing your oil, our experienced technicians also perform oil filter replacements, troubleshoot oil leaks, and suggest the correct oil to help keep your engine performing its best.
  • What does it mean if my Ford Explorer oil light comes on? Your Ford Explorer oil change reminder light might illuminate if it’s been too long since your last oil change. On the other hand, the oil pressure light might illuminate due to a clogged oil filter, a faulty oil pressure sensor, low engine oil levels, or a malfunctioning oil pump.
  • Does my Explorer's oil filter need to be changed during my oil change? You should replace your Ford Explorer during each oil change. The filter captures debris and contaminants to help keep your oil clean, which means the filter gets dirty. If you skip replacing the filter, you’ll contaminate your new oil with the dirty filter.