1997 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 172

Maintenance and care CHECKING AND ADDING ENGINE OIL Use WSS-M2C153-F motor oil CERTIFIED FOR GASOLINE ENGINES by the American Petroleum Institute. Engine oils with an SAE 5W-30 viscosity and displaying the American Petroleum Institute certification mark are preferred for your vehicle. They provide the best engine performance, fuel economy and engine protection for all climates down to -25°C (-15°F). Do not use: • "non-detergent" oils • oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG • additional engine oil additives, oil treatments or engine treatments Additional engine oil additives, oil treatments or engine treatments are never needed and could, under certain conditions, lead to engine damage which is not covered by your Ford warranty. Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and of the preferred viscosity may be used in your engine. The engine oil and oil filter must still be changed according to the "Service Guide". Checking the engine oil Check the engine oil each time you fuel your vehicle. To check the oil: 173