Oil
- Viscosity
- 5W-20
- Oil type
- Conventional
- Capacity (with filter)
- 5 qt
- Capacity (without filter)
- 4.7 qt
OEM notes: WSS-M2C930-A
2003 Ford Explorer Maintenance & Specs
Everything you need to maintain your 2003 Ford Explorer — oil specs, maintenance schedule, recalls, and more.
The 2003 Ford Explorer takes 5W-20 Conventional with a total capacity of 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 2 compatible alternatives listed below. Note: this vehicle has 7 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
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 Explorer
- 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: 3rd gen U152 (4.0L SOHC V6)
Fluid specifications
Transmission Fluid
Buy →- Type
- Mercon LV
- Capacity
- 4 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Brake Fluid
Buy →- DOT type
- DOT 3
- Change interval
- 45,000 mi
Coolant
Buy →- Type
- Motorcraft Gold
- Color
- Yellow
- Capacity
- 7 qt
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Power Steering Fluid
Buy →- Type
- Mercon LV
Differential Fluid (rear)
Buy →- Type
- 75W-90 GL-5
- Capacity
- 2 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Parts & specifications
Spark Plugs
- Type
- Iridium
- Gap
- 0.052
- Quantity
- 4
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Battery
- Group size
- 65
- CCA
- 650
Tires
- Size
- 245/60R18
- 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.
Towing & Payload
Max Towing Capacity
5,600 lbs
Max Payload
1,455 lbs
Curb Weight
4,300 lbs
GVWR
5,990 lbs
Max Tongue Weight
560 lbs
Hitch Class
III
Source: manufacturer
Estimated Current Value
Original MSRP
$42,000
Private Party Value
$4,788 – $5,292
Dealer Retail Value
$5,544 – $6,300
Trade-In Value
$4,284 – $4,788
Depreciation
88%
Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.
Source: estimated
Safety recalls7
Technical Service Bulletins120
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 Explorer
Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2003 Ford Explorer 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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