Ford recommends changing the engine oil on the 2017 Explorer Platinum as indicated by the oil life monitor, and not exceeding 10,000 miles or 12 months. I typically change mine around 7,000 miles. I’ve previously installed a Fumoto F107N drain valve to make future oil changes easier. In this guide, I’ll document the oil change process as if the original 15mm drain plug is still in place.
Ford recommends changing the engine oil on the 2017 Explorer Platinum whenever indicated on the oil life monitor and not to exceed 10,000 miles or 12 months. I typically change mine around 7k miles. I have already changed my engine oil in the past and installed drain valve to make my future oil change easier. So just a heads up if you see the drain valve in the pictures and hopefully it does not cause any confusion. I’ll document my oil change as if the original 15mm drain plug is still there.
What I used:
- 15mm socket to remove oil drain plug
- 5W-30 synthetic motor oil x 6 quarts
- Motorcraft FL-500S engine oil filter
- Oil drain pan to catch the used engine oil
- Oil funnel
Step 1: Elevate the car.
Lifting just the front of the car should be sufficient.
Step 2: Remove the lower shield.
Loosen and remove the three hand-turnable screws.
After removing the lower shield, you’ll see the oil filter and drain plug. In my case, I’ve replaced the 15mm drain plug with a Fumoto F107N valve for easier oil changes
Step 3: Drain the engine oil.
In this step you’ll need to use a 15mm socket to loosen the drain valve. In this picture I have a Fumoto drain valve in which I can turn the handle and the oil will simply drain out.
I removed the engine oil cap so there’s no vacuum.
Once the engine oil is done draining, put back the 15mm drain plug.
Step 4: Replace engine oil filter.
I don’t want the O2 sensor wire to be in the way of dripping engine oil so I disconnected it. To unplug the wire, there’s a tab in the center that I had to push down and then pull.
Loosened the filter, let it drain for a few minutes. Remove the filter once it’s done draining.
Install the new filter. For this part, I would fill the filter with engine oil and rub some of the oil onto the top gasket.
Plug back the O2 sensor wire.
Step 5: Reinstall the lower shield
There’s no need for me to be on the bottom of the car anymore so I reinstalled the lower shield.
Step 6: Refill engine oil.
I refilled with 6 quarts of Mobil 5w-30 full synthetic.
Once done, close the cap and check the dipstick to make sure the oil level is within the min and max.
In conclusion, maintaining your 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum’s engine oil is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. By following this guide, you can confidently change your engine oil and filter with ease. Utilizing the recommended 5W-30 synthetic motor oil and Motorcraft FL-500S engine oil filter will ensure your vehicle continues running smoothly. Keep in mind the oil life monitor and the 10,000 miles or 12 months (which ever comes first) interval to avoid unnecessary wear on your engine. With the right tools and a few simple steps, you can complete this essential maintenance task and keep your Explorer Platinum in tip-top shape.