USA · 1990–present
Ford Explorer
Maintenance Schedule & Service Guide
Recommended Oil
5W-30 synthetic
Oil Change Interval
Every 7,500–10,000 miles or 12 months
Service schedule
Recommended intervals for the Ford Explorer.
Oil & filter change7,500–10,000 mi / 12 mo
Tire rotation7,500 mi
Cabin air filter15,000 mi
Transfer case fluid150,000 mi
Rear differential fluid150,000 mi (severe: 60,000)
Transmission fluid150,000 mi
Spark plugs60,000 mi
DIY tips
- 01
The PTU (front transfer case) on AWD Explorers needs fluid changes every 30,000 miles — Ford's 150k spec is too long.
- 02
Panoramic roof drains clog easily; flush them with a flexible wire annually.
- 03
Keep the Explorer's 6F35 transmission fluid fresh — it's the most common failure point.
Reliability snapshot
Post-2011 Explorers have improved reliability. The 2.3L EcoBoost is the most reliable engine option.