2009 Ford Explorer
Maintenance & specsVERIFIED Jun 15, 2026
The 2009 Ford Explorer takes 5W-20 Synthetic Blend 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 1 active recall — check the recalls section below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.
⚑ QUICK DIY TIPS FOR THE 2009 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 Synthetic Blend as specified by Ford — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
- Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.
01
Oil & Filter
OilBuy
Viscosity5W-20
Oil typeSynthetic Blend
Capacity (with filter)5 qt
Capacity (w/o filter)4.7 qt
OEM specWSS-M2C930-A
Drain Bolt & Hardware
Socket size16 mm
ThreadM14x1.5
Torque spec30 Nm
GasketCrush washer
4th gen U251 (4.0L SOHC V6)
02
Fluid Specifications
Transmission FluidBuy
TypeMercon LV
Capacity4 qt
Change interval60,000 mi
Brake FluidBuy
DOT typeDOT 3
Change interval45,000 mi
CoolantBuy
TypeMotorcraft Gold
ColorYellow
Capacity7 qt
Change interval100,000 mi
Power Steering FluidBuy
TypeMercon LV
Differential Fluid (rear)Buy
Type75W-90 GL-5
Capacity2 qt
Change interval60,000 mi
03
Parts & Specifications
Tires
Size245/60R18
Front pressure33 PSI
Rear pressure33 PSI
04
Maintenance Schedule
≈ every 6 months
- ▸Change Engine Oil & Filter
05
Torque Specifications
06
Safety Recalls
107
Technical Service Bulletins
6Towing & Payload
Max Towing
5,600lbs
Max Payload
1,455lbs
Curb Weight
4,300lbs
GVWR
5,990lbs
Max Tongue Weight
560lbs
Hitch Class
III
Source: manufacturer
Estimated Current Value
Original MSRP
$42,000
Private Party
$7,182–$7,938
Dealer Retail
$8,316–$9,450
Trade-In
$6,426–$7,182
Depreciation
82%
Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.
Source: estimated
Save by doing it yourself
A shop typically charges $70–$140 for this service. Buy the parts and save.
08
Tools & Supplies
Shop parts for the Ford Explorer
Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2009 Ford Explorer on Amazon.
Other 2009 Ford models
Other Ford Explorer years
Have info for this vehicle?
Help fellow owners — submit specs from your owner's manual.
ⓘAs an Amazon Associate, OilChangeDIY.com earns from qualifying purchases. Product links on this page may be affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure for details. Always double-check specs against your owner's manual or official OEM documentation.