8 Best Oil For 3.5 Ecoboost Engine in 2023

We all know the importance of engine oil for keeping up the performance of every vehicle's engine. But it becomes puzzling to choose the best oil for 3.5 ecoboost engine among so many popular brand options.

This guide will help you in case of making decision by providing various product reviews, recommended 3.5 ecoboost oil by manufacturer, oil maintenance plan, and answers to some frequently asked queries. Have a look on the article.

To start with, learn that the best motor oil is the one that allows the engine to work efficiently without the formation of deposits. The deposits forming in the pipelines can reduce horsepower production by affecting the oil flow. 

Besides deposits, friction also adds load to the engine and makes it harder to produce the required horsepower. Therefore, the best engine oil must reduce friction, deposit formation, and better fuel consumption.

Quick Comparison: Best Oil for 3.5 Ecoboost

Top 8 Best Oil for 3.5 Ecoboost Engine:

1. Motorcraft SAE 5w30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil

Not at all times, fully synthetic oils are the best choices. Sometimes, the synthetic blend works more efficiently than most fully synthetic ones offered by different brands.

Ford, the manufacturer itself, has recommended Motorcraft 5W-30 as the best engine oil for 3.5 ecoboost. Also, the decent capacity of 12 Quartz sets you free to buy multiple bottles to refill the engine.

It also reduces friction and chances of oxidation. It uses special additives that ensure the working of the engine at full capacity without deposit formations.

Thus, increases the engine's ability to produce more horsepower. It also reduces the chances of rusting as well as wear on the engine. Ultimately, the premium quality helps to boost the fuel economy.

Buying Motorcraft 5w30 engine oil will be great as it encourages longer engine life. The approximated interval required for changing the oil is 5000 miles or six months.

There are no bad reviews yet; however, synthetic oil requires special vigilance while disposing of. It is highly non-biodegradable.

Viscosity & Capacity

The viscosity grade of Motorcraft synthetic blend motor oil is 5w-30 with the capacity of 12 Quartz.

Specifications

• Model: Motorcraft 186234/198711
• Motorcraft Part Number: XO-SW30-QSP
• Specification Number: WSS-M2C946-A
• Oil grade: 5W-30
• Liquid Volume: 12 Quartz/384 fluid ounces
• Item Weight: 24.3 pounds
• Best Sellers Rank: 18,766 in automotive & 159 in motor oils

Features

• Offers high viscosity index
• Blended additives for smooth gear shifting and enhanced engine performance
• Magnesium and Calcium detergent to reduce cloud clogs and deposits
• Meets all warranty requirements

Pros

• Improves mileage and increases fuel economy
• It prevents the engine from wearing and rusting
• Works well in both low and high temperatures
• Recommended by Ford for Ecoboost engine

Cons

• Improper disposal can cause environmental pollution.
• Relatively expensive

2. Castrol GTX 5W-30 High Mileage Motor Oil

Castrol, as said earlier, is the best brand among all. Its 06440 version oil is much similar to the Havoline oil. In contrast to other competing oils, the Castrol GTX high mileage oil has less phosphorus.

Instead, it uses patented technology to reduce emissions and optimize the engine's performance. It's an eco-friendly product, and buying it will make you feel good for contributing to climate change.

Your Ford engine 3.5 ecoboost definitely needs this GTX oil engineered for high mileage engines. Its high viscosity index works best in all weather conditions.

It is engineered for vehicles with 75,000 plus miles and ensures the good shape of the engine in them. The antioxidants and superior detergency fight the rust and deposit build-up. Its advanced additives help the engine against wear and burn off.

Now you don't have to worry about catalytic converter failure when your vehicle ages. It's the common and costliest issue faced by higher mileage vehicles because Castrol GTX aims to reverse the engine state.

Viscosity & Capacity

The viscosity grade of Castrol GTX High Mileage oil is 5W-30 with the capacity of 1 quart (Pack of 6). It means that you will get a liquid volume of 32 ounces in a bottle.

Specifications

• Model: Castrol 06440
• Oil grade: 5W-30
• Liquid Volume: 1 Quart/32 fluid ounces in a bottle
• Item Weight: 12.07 pounds
• API: SN
• Best Sellers Rank: 108,675 in automotive & 543 in motor oils

Features

• Synthetic blend
• Patented technology and no phosphorus were used
• Emission system protection
• Liquid Engineered for 75,000 plus miles
• Beyond the standards of ILSAC GF-5 and API SN

Pros 

• Superior oil burn-off protection than other popular conventional oils.
• Protects against sludge and rust
• Less phosphorus contributes to less pollution
• Helps extend vehicle life

Cons

• It might not be compatible with the engine designed for 5W-20 oils.
• Sometimes leaking package due to opened bottles

3. Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 5W-20 Motor Oil

Get the top-notch protection that your 3.5 ecoboost requires with Valvoline advanced full synthetic (formerly SynPower). It is ranked number one in the best seller rank of motor oils, thus customer's favorite choice.

With its innovative additive technology, it delivers advanced protection for hardworking cars, trucks, and SUVs in severe conditions. Valvoline oil is resistant to breakage in such vehicles.

So, you can rely on this one and do not have to worry about the oil not keeping going. The oil protects the engine from low-speed pre-ignition as it meets the API safety.

It has exceptional performance for extreme weather conditions because of its fully synthetic formula. The housing additives fight deposits, sludge, friction, and heat. Thus, increasing life expectancy and being suitable for high mileage engines.

Moreover, buying Valvoline can minimize expensive repairs caused by exhaust system damage. Its engine cleaning detergents provide exceptional protection, which prolongs the engine's life.

Viscosity & Capacity

Valvoline advanced full synthetic has a viscosity grade of 5w-20 with the capacity of 5 quartz.

Specifications

• Model: Valvoline 787023
• Motorcraft Part Number: 881147-EA
• Oil grade: 5W-20
• Liquid Volume: 5 Quartz/160 fluid ounces in a bottle
• Item Weight: 0.01 ounces
• API: SP
• Best Sellers Rank: 22 in automotive & 1 in motor oils

Features

• 40% more wear protection than the industry standard
• Specially formulated to fight engine stress
• A combination of premium antioxidants to fight degradation
• Durable anti-wear films to avoid engine breakdown.
• 10x better in resisting oil breakdown
• Meets the API SP classification

Pros

• 25% better protection against deposits
• Advanced protection for vehicles used for extensive periods
• Proven to maximize engine life
• Offers high-level defense in most challenging weather conditions

Cons

• Possible chances of receiving leakage bottles
• Require special cautions when disposing of or changing oil

4. HAVOLINE 5W30 High Mileage Synthetic Blend

Another blend of oil from another popular brand is recommended for 3.5 ecoboost engines. This one is pretty much popular among Ford truck owners.

Specifically designed for high mileage engines, Havoline 5w-30 synthetic blend oil is used in passenger cars and light-duty trucks. It can reverse damage to your engine, thus highly recommended for older machines.

It offers exceptional wear protection, resistance to oxidation, and prevents oil consumption. Without any doubt, this one meets Ford's requirements of API SN service category oil for engine and emission system protection in cars.

Also, you don't have to worry about the performance of the engine since it provides rust protection. The added cleansing agents can help in maintaining engine performance and cleanliness.

The less the contaminants are, the more the engine works well. It can also control oil consumption by controlling evaporation losses at high temperatures.

Along with protection against deposits and oil spills, it also removes the already formed ones.

However, its performance might change, seals deteriorate, and oil consumption might increase over time. But still, Havoline motor oil with deposit shield deliver value, though.

Viscosity & Capacity

Havoline synthetic blend for high mileage has a viscosity grade of 5w-30 with the capacity of 5 quartz.

Specifications

• Model: Havoline 223681474
• Oil grade: 5W-30
• Liquid Volume: 5 Quartz/160 fluid ounces in a bottle
• Item Weight: 9.68 pounds
• API: SN
• Best Sellers Rank: 38,448 in automotive & 277 in motor oils

Features

• Possess Deposit Shied Technology to prevent deposit formation
• Special seal conditioning agent to minimize oil leaks
• Cleansing agents for engine's efficient performance
• Meets API SN service

Pros

• Meets requirements for high-end oil
• Top-notch rust protection
• Minimizes deposits
• Repairs and seals oil leaks

Cons

• Light packaging can result in low shelf life
• Performing abilities might change over the time

5. Royal Purple High-Performance 5W-30 Motor Oil

Get the most of the performance advantages out of Royal Purple Performance Motor Oil. Its formulators have 200 years of expertise in manufacturing high-performance lubricants; therefore, it is recommended oil for ford 3.5 ecoboost.

Unlike other companies, the sole purpose of Royal Purple is to manufacture exclusively active products that stand out from other synthetic and mineral-based oils.

Its 5w30 motor oils meet the fuel economy standards of a 5w20 oil. And, reduced friction effect causes maximized fuel efficiency.

As being the most active lubricant industry, Royal purple gives its customers beyond level advantages. This one provides better wear protection, and its enhanced additive technology prevents metal-on-metal contact.

It also exhibits superior corrosion protection and better protection for the exhaust emissions system of the vehicle.

Above all, its patented additive technology makes it compatible with fuels containing ethanol and prevents white sludge & lubrication starvation. Your engines will run cooler with royal purple high-performance oil.

Viscosity & Capacity

It has a viscosity grade of 5w-30- a high viscosity index. Its capacity is five quartz which means that you will get a liquid volume of 160 ounces in a bottle.

Specifications

• Model: Royal Purple 51530
• Oil grade: 5W-30
• Liquid Volume: 5 Quartz/160 fluid ounces in a bottle
• Item Weight: 8 pounds
• API: SP
• Best Sellers Rank: 1579 in automotive & 26 in motor oils

Features

• API licensed heavy-duty SAE motor oil
• Advanced Synerlec® additive technology
• Compatible with fuels containing ethanol
• Superior protection in gasoline and diesel engines.
• Exhibits anti-wear additive chemistry
• Meets ILSAC GF-5 and Dexos1 1 performance requirements

Pros

• Excellent wear protection
• Reduced fuel consumption
• Reduces heat, wear, and emissions
• No rust observed in testing

Cons

• Highly-priced than other synthetic and conventional oils
• Beyond the reach of many engine owners

6. Castrol Edge 5W-20 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil

Castrol offers a variety of options to meet the needs of 3.5 ecoboost oil that require SAE 5W-20 engine oil. The brand has already been leading the list by providing the best oil products from Edge to Magnetic and GTX.

Talking about the most advanced Castrol Edge motor oil, it has been ranking 5^th in the best sellers motor oils. It uses fluid titanium technology for greater pressure and potential against stress and friction.

It has unique amalgams of detergents that solve the issues of deposits formation in modern-day engines. Moreover, it is perfect for extreme weather conditions since it has been formulated to reduce breakdowns due to heat.

Its thin Viscosity allows it to flow easily during the winter season. Your cars can now start in cold winters, and the driver will feel a great experience.

Castrol edge advanced motor oil also decreases metal on metal contact at all speeds and reduces friction. Thus, these oils majorly contribute to providing better wear protection and result in the longevity of the engine.

The manufacturers recommend the use of Bosch oil filters and special care for increased life. It's also a safe and sound option for people who are tight on budget.

Viscosity & Capacity

The viscosity grade of Castrol Edge is 5W-20 with the capacity of 5 quartz.

Specifications

• Model: Castrol 03083
• Oil grade: 5W-20
• Liquid Volume: 5 Quartz/160 fluid ounces in a bottle
• Item Weight: 9.48 pounds
• Best Sellers Rank: 113 in automotive & 5 in motor oils

Features

• Titanium technology for Improved Engine Performance and reduced friction
• Superior Wear Protection, Increased fuel economy, and horsepower production
• Fully synthetic and thin Viscosity
• Meets all engine test requirements and certification criteria.

Pros 

• Decreases metal on metal contact
• Provides sludge protection
• Offers strength against extreme temperature and pressure
• Economical in comparison to other fully synthetic oils

Cons

• Changes engine performing issues
• Causes knocking issues in the engine

7. Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil

Shell Rotella T5 has been providing the protection you expect but in a synthetic blend of heavy-duty motor oil for decades. Its Triple Protection Plus technology delivers 37% better wear protection than the maximum requirements.

It enhances oil breakdown resistance for increased shelf life. Many leading engine makers have approved Shell for its wide range of features.

It finds its application in pickup diesel trucks, such as high-power vehicles where more heat & stress resistivity is required. Talking about its advanced additives, they offer excellent protection even at colder temperatures.

Beyond cold-flow properties, it also has improved high-temperature oxidation protection.

Besides excellent equipment protection, it also delivers long engine life and viscosity control under high temperatures. It goes well beyond the CK wear and deposit protection requirements.

However, the diesel engine oil lacks the additives required for gasoline engines, but it is also compatible with gasoline engines, according to the customer's reviews.

Viscosity & Capacity

It has a viscosity grade of 15W-40- a relatively high viscosity index. Its capacity is 1 gallon which means that you will get a liquid volume of 128 ounces in a bottle.

Specifications

• Model: Shell Rotella T5
• Manufacturer Part Number: 550045348
• Oil grade: 15W-40
• Liquid Volume: 1 Gallon/128 fluid ounces in a bottle
• Item Weight: 7.58 pounds
• API: CK
• Best Sellers Rank: 51,134 in automotive & 57 in motor oils

Features

• Synthetic Blend heavy-duty machine oil with Triple Protection Plus Technology
• Heavy-duty diesel engine oil of 1 Gallon/3.785 L
• Displays 55% better deposit control than CK-4 15W-40 oil
• Delivers 37% better wear protection that goes beyond CK-4 wear limits

Pros

• Suitable for a wide range of heavy-duty machines
• Improves oil breakdown resistance
• Advanced additives protect against wear and deposits
• Sustainable emission control system

Cons

• It may not carry gasoline certifications
• Not suitable for engines where gasoline additives are necessary

8. Mobil 1 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil

Keep your 3.5 ecoboost run like a new one with Mobil 1 synthetic motor oil. It is the top-notch brand for a wide range of engine types of all ages. Its base oils are formulated with a special blend of high-performance synthetic base stocks.

Also, these are fortified with an additive system providing outstanding protection to vehicles with more than 75,000 miles.

Protect your engine for 10,000 miles ahead using this fully synthetic motor oil. As no crude oil is used in manufacturing, it provides superior mechanical performance as compared to conventional oils.

It maximizes engine performance and increases the engine life of high mileage vehicles.

Undoubtedly, motor oil prevents deposits and cleans up sludge in just one oil change. Its complex developing method makes it a bit expensive as compared to conventional motor oils. But the product is worth the penny.

Viscosity & Capacity

Mobil 1 94001 has a viscosity grade of SAE 5w-30. It means its SAE viscosity has a rating of 5 at low temperatures and a rating of 30 at room temperatures. And the capacity of 5 quartz or 16- fluid ounces in a bottle.

Specifications

• Model: Mobil 1 94001
• Manufacturer Part Number: 102991
• Oil grade: 5w-30
• Liquid Volume: 1 Quart/5676 milliliters
• Item Weight: 12.1 pounds
• Best Sellers Rank: 57,257 in automotive & 57 in motor oils

Features

• Advanced synthetic production for up to 10,000 miles
• Fully synthetic formula with SAE 5w30
• Proprietary blend of active cleaning agents
• Excellent thermal and oxidation stability
• Designed to maintain engine seal performance

Pros

• Designed for high mileage vehicles
• Decreased engine wear to extreme temperatures
• Controls oil breakdown and prevents leak with seal conditioner
• Suitable for many severe driving applications

Cons

• Costly than other conventional motor oil
• Not recommended for two-cycle or aviation engines

Best oil for 3.5 Ecoboost Buying Guide

Hopefully, you have thorough knowledge about the specifications with the pros and cons of each above-stated product. Of course, it will help you select the right one for you.

However, you must learn a complete overview of the model and the perfect oil recommended by the manufacturer.

3.5 Ecoboost model overview

Manufactured by Ford, this engine, aka TwinForce, is used to power midsize and full-size cars, pickup trucks, supercars, and SUVs. Its oil capacity is 6 Quartz or 5.7 liters, including the oil filter.

Recommended Oil by Manufacturer

Ford's recommendations have shifted to 5w20 from 5w30 as the oil quality gets better. But the manufacturer itself has recommended Motorcraft 5w30 for ecoboost other than 5w20.

Base Component

The basic component of the best engine oil includes chemical compounds having lubricating properties. These man-made oils are typically chemically modified materials such as petroleum with the base material of distilled crude oil.

Optimal Viscosity for oil in 3.5 ecoboost

In normal conditions, the optimal Viscosity required for oil in 3.5 ecoboost is 5w-20. It will flow easily in your engine and offer more lubrication, thus reducing friction and increasing the engine's life.

Fuel efficiency

A six-cylinder engine with V-configuration gives better fuel economy if filled with high-quality oil such as 5w20 synthetic oil.

Weather Compatible

Choose a multi-grade oil that works well in all seasons. If you choose SAE 5w20, it will accommodate lower temperatures due to its thin Viscosity and better flowing abilities.

Technical Specifications

It is another important factor to look for in finding the right one. Your selected oil must be the Ford certification and uses advanced, fully synthetic formula. It also has a compatible viscosity grade and capacity.

Included Additives

Ensure that your selected oil has unique additive technology to combat wear, sludge, and deposits. The premium oil also has cleaning agents and detergents to prevent contamination.

Also you can read our article on: Process of Ford Focus Oil Change Reset: 2014-2021.

3.5 Ecoboost Oil Change:

When you need to change the oil in your engine, follow these steps. Consider having supplies such as jack stands, oil drain pan, wrench, new oil filter, drop cloth, ratchet, and funnel.

Also, use wheel chocks or jack stands, or pads to prevent the vehicle from moving. Let's know how to change the oil in 3.5 ecoboost step by step.

Step 1: Safety Measures

The first step is to carry your safety equipment such as gloves and glasses along with other tools. Check the vehicle's emergency brakes after you find the perfectly leveled spot to work.

And, please lay a cloth under the oil catch pan to prevent oil splashes mess on your driveway.

Step 2: Take Off the Drain Plug

Open the hood, lose the oil cap and allow the air to pass through the crankcase. It will drain the oil faster after removing the drain plug. Once the drain oil comes out, put the plug back into its position.

Now, use a new crush washer as a new seal.

Step 3: Unscrew the Oil Filter

Use a wrench to take off the oil filter and clean the new oil pan gasket surface. Make sure you remove any stuck-on rubber. Use the new oil to coat the rubber seal. Do the job carefully to avoid oil spillage.

Step 4: Put the New Oil Filter

After ensuring the sealing, get your new filter and tighten it. Add the new oil using a funnel and fill up the 3.5 Ecoboost engine with new oil. For this, take off the oil filter cap and, after pouring, replace the cap if necessary.

Also, be sure that the funnel must handle the size of the oil container. Clean up any spilled oil in the surrounding area, like metal shields or frames.

Final Step: Do a Visual Oil Check

To ensure no major oil leaks, run the vehicle for a few minutes after filling the new oil. You should also reset the oil light and check the dipstick to ensure the maximum oil level mark. When everything looks fine, your oil is at the correct level.

3.5 Ecoboost Oil Change Interval:

Moving on to the 3.5 ecoboost oil change.

Maintain proper oil change interval of 3.5 ecoboost synthetic oil to keep the engine performing smoothly. The interval for oil and filter may change according to the driving condition and the oil type used.

Change the oil filter every 3000 miles or twice a year. If you select the best recommended high mileage oil that is compatible with 3.5 ecoboost, you don't need to change it much often.

It is advised that synthetic blend formula oil must be replaced every 5,000 miles and fully synthetic oil after every 7500 miles.

3.5 Ecoboost Maintenance Schedule (Standard Practice)

It's pretty evident that your 3.5 ecoboost engine oil plays an important role in the healthy life and good performance of your engine. Besides, you must actually keep checking the correct functioning of parts and valves of the engine.

Let's increase the life of your 3.5 ecoboost high mileage by maintaining it properly by following a few maintenance tips.

• Change the oil regularly when required or when the light indicates it.
• Select the best oil for ecoboost 3.5 that combats friction, sludge, wear, and deposits.
• Keep a regular check on brake lines and cables, CVT liquid, and transmission fluid once a year or after 16,000 km.
• Maintain the exhaust system and suspension parts. If your Ford f150 motor oil claims superior exhaust system protection, grab it.
• Check fuel lines and steam pipes for smooth performance.
• Quickly change the worn or damaged drive belt and spark plugs within 48 hours.
• Inspect air filter condition at oil change interval. If necessary, replace the unclean air filter when changing 3.5 ecoboost synthetic oil.

3.5 Ecoboost Oil Type by Year

Since the 1990s, SAE 5w-30 motor oil was recommended for the majority of Ford's engines. In 2002, Ford revised the recommendations and allowed SAE 5w-20 instead of SAE 5w-30 motor oil.

4.2L V6, 4.6L V8, and 5.4 L V8 were the listed vehicles to be serviced with SAE 5w-20 from 1997 to 2002.

From 2002 onwards, the manufacturer has recommended SAE 5w-20 best oil for almost all of their engines.

However, SAE 5w-30 is also recommended as the best oil for a 3.5 ecoboost engine. It is because the F series require slightly heavier motor oil.

FAQs

1. What Oil Does Ford Recommend For The 3.5 Ecoboost?

Ford recommended oil for ford 3.5 ecoboost is a multi-grade oil that is slightly heavier. It recommends synthetic blend SAE-30 as the best motor oil for ecoboost engine.

2. Is The Ford 3.5 Ecoboost Reliable?

Yes, it has received outstanding remarks for reliability with not so many issues as compared to previous models. With proper maintenance, they will make it beyond 200,000 miles without malfunctioning.

3. How Much Oil Does A Ford 3.5 Ecoboost Take?

A Ford 3.5 Ecoboost V6 has an oil capacity of 6 Quartz or 5.6 liters with oil filters.

4. Does Ford Recommend Synthetic Oil?

Although synthetic oil is better, Ford advises synthetic blends because of their better performance and less volatility. They also work efficiently in some areas and in high temperatures.

However, synthetics from top brands like Castrol work just as good.

5. Why Is Castrol Better Than Mobil 1?

Both offer different kinds of advantages to the vehicle owner. Although Mobil 1 has better preserving properties yet Castrol makes the best choice for the consumer-grade market because of its unique additives.

6. What Brand Oil Does Ford Recommend?

Motorcraft brand oil by Ford is the recommendation for F150 vehicles designed for ford 150 motor oil. But any other API-certified oil is also good-to-go.

7. How Long Does Motorcraft Synthetic Oil Last?

It can last up to 5,000 miles or six months (whichever comes first), even in tough driving conditions.

So, What Is The Recommended Oil For 3.5 Ecoboost?

To sum up, the best 3.5 ecoboost high mileage oil is Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 motor oil. It has all the required properties needed for your 3.5 ecoboost.

Now, don't worry about the health status of your engine and expensive repair parts, as Castrol has formulated a solution.

Its low Viscosity also reduces internal friction, which leads to increased fuel economy and decreased power usage, ultimately fewer carbon emissions. Either way, all the listed products will not at all do any damage to your Ford engine.