Oil
- Viscosity
- 5W-20
- Oil type
- Conventional
- Capacity (with filter)
- 4.5 qt
- Capacity (without filter)
- 4 qt
OEM notes: WSS-M2C930-A
2003 Ford Escape Maintenance & Specs
Everything you need to maintain your 2003 Ford Escape — oil specs, maintenance schedule, recalls, and more.
The 2003 Ford Escape takes 5W-20 Conventional with a total capacity of 4.5 quarts (filter included). You’ll need a 16mm socket for the drain plug, torqued to 30 Nm. The OEM oil filter is the Motorcraft FL-820-S, with 3 compatible alternatives listed below. Note: this vehicle has 9 active recalls — check the recalls section below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.
Data last verified: April 30, 2026
Oil
5W-20
Conventional
Buy on Amazon →
Capacity
4.5 qt
with filter
Drain plug
16 mm
30 Nm torque
Filter
FL-820-S
Motorcraft (OEM)
Buy on Amazon →
OEM spec: WSS-M2C930-A
Quick DIY Tips for the 2003 Ford Escape
- Torque your drain plug to 30 Nm (22 ft-lbs) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.
- Using the OEM filter (Motorcraft FL-820-S) is recommended for warranty compliance.
- Always use 5W-20 Conventional as specified by Ford — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
- Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.
Filter options
Drain bolt & hardware
- Socket size
- 16 mm
- Thread size
- M14x1.5
- Torque spec
- 30 Nm
- Gasket type
- Crush washer
Notes: 1st gen CD2 (2.0L/3.0L)
Fluid specifications
Parts & specifications
Spark Plugs
- Type
- Iridium
- Gap
- 0.052
- Quantity
- 4
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Battery
- Group size
- 65
- CCA
- 650
Tires
- Size
- 215/55R17
- Front pressure
- 33 PSI
- Rear pressure
- 33 PSI
Air Filter
Cabin Air Filter
Brake Pads
Wiper Blades
Maintenance schedule
Select a mileage interval above to see scheduled maintenance items.
Estimated Current Value
Original MSRP
$32,000
Private Party Value
$3,344 – $3,696
Dealer Retail Value
$3,872 – $4,400
Trade-In Value
$2,992 – $3,344
Depreciation
89%
Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.
Source: estimated
Safety recalls9
Technical Service Bulletins70
Torque specifications
- lug nut
- 100 ft-lbs / 135.6 Nm
- spark plug
- 18 ft-lbs / 24.4 Nm
14mm thread, aluminum head
Save by doing it yourself
A shop typically charges $70–$140 for this service. Buy the parts yourself and save.
Shop Parts for the Ford Escape
Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2003 Ford Escape on Amazon.
Tools & supplies
Step-by-step guide
Detailed walkthrough with tips for first-timers.
Read guide →How often to change oil
Intervals, severe service, and what your car needs.
Read guide →Synthetic vs. conventional
Which oil type is right for your engine and budget.
Read guide →Have info for this vehicle?
Help fellow owners — submit specs from your owner's manual.
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