2021 Ford Explorer ST Oil Change: A Complete Guide

by Alex Braham 51 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2021 Ford Explorer ST oil change – a crucial maintenance task that keeps your beast of an SUV running smoothly. Changing your oil is one of the most straightforward yet essential things you can do to keep your engine in tip-top shape. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the right oil and filter to the step-by-step process. So, grab your tools, and let's get started!

Why is an Oil Change Important for Your 2021 Ford Explorer ST?

First things first: why bother with an oil change? Well, regular oil changes are the lifeblood of your engine. Think of the oil as your engine's circulatory system. It lubricates all the moving parts, reducing friction and wear. Over time, the oil breaks down, becomes contaminated with debris, and loses its ability to protect your engine. This is particularly critical in a high-performance vehicle like the Explorer ST, where the engine is working harder and generating more heat. Skipping oil changes can lead to serious problems, including reduced engine life, decreased performance, and even catastrophic engine failure – nobody wants that! By sticking to a regular oil change schedule, you're investing in your vehicle's longevity and performance. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and a vehicle that runs great for years to come. In short, oil changes are not just maintenance; they are preventative care, saving you from expensive repairs down the road. Furthermore, the Ford Explorer ST is a powerhouse SUV, and its turbocharged engine demands the best care to keep it performing at its peak. The high-performance nature of the ST means the engine operates under more stress, making clean, fresh oil even more vital. This is because the engine's internal components experience increased heat and friction. Over time, the oil breaks down, causing damage to the engine. Changing the oil regularly ensures that the engine parts are properly lubricated. And, the engine runs efficiently, prolonging the engine's lifespan, and preventing costly repairs. If you value your investment, then keep up with the oil changes.

What You'll Need for Your 2021 Ford Explorer ST Oil Change

Alright, let's gather your tools! Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. This will save you time and frustration. For your 2021 Ford Explorer ST oil change, you'll need the following:

  • New Oil: Consult your owner's manual for the correct oil type and viscosity. Typically, the 2021 Explorer ST requires a synthetic oil, such as 5W-30. Using the right type of oil is extremely important to keep the engine working properly. Also, make sure to buy enough oil. The Ford Explorer ST engine typically holds around 6 quarts, but always double-check your owner's manual to be certain.
  • Oil Filter: Get the correct oil filter for your Explorer ST. You can usually find the right one at any auto parts store. The filter removes contaminants from the oil, so a new one is essential with every oil change. Remember to get the correct filter – using the wrong one could damage your engine. Refer to your owner's manual or ask an auto parts store employee for the correct filter. Most importantly, buying the right filter helps maintain the engine's performance.
  • Oil Filter Wrench: This tool makes it easier to remove and install the oil filter. There are various types, so choose one that fits your filter.
  • Wrench for the Drain Plug: You'll need this to remove the drain plug and let the old oil drain out. Make sure you have the correct size. The drain plug wrench size can vary, so ensure you have the right size.
  • Drain Pan: This is crucial for catching the old oil. Get one that's large enough to hold all the oil. A drain pan is essential for capturing the old oil, keeping your workspace clean, and making disposal easier. Choose a pan large enough to hold the entire oil capacity of your Explorer ST, which is typically around 6 quarts. This is to prevent any spills.
  • Jack and Jack Stands (or Ramps): You'll need to lift your vehicle to access the oil drain plug and filter. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands for safety. Jack stands provide a secure base to prevent the car from falling. This is important to ensure your safety.
  • Gloves: Protect your hands from the hot, dirty oil. Disposable gloves are the best choice for this. Gloves keep your hands clean and prevent oil from getting on your skin. They also provide a better grip on tools.
  • Funnel: This helps you pour the new oil into the engine without making a mess.
  • Rags or Paper Towels: For wiping up spills and cleaning up. Be sure to have plenty of these on hand.
  • Wheel Chocks: For safety, to prevent the car from rolling while you are working. Always chock the wheels that are not being lifted.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change the Oil in Your 2021 Ford Explorer ST

Now for the fun part! Here's a step-by-step guide to changing the oil in your 2021 Ford Explorer ST:

  1. Prepare the Vehicle: Park your Explorer ST on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels for safety. If the engine has been running, let it cool down for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent you from burning yourself on hot components. This is important for safety.
  2. Raise the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle. Place jack stands under the frame for support. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack! Using jack stands is critical for your safety. Make sure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.
  3. Locate the Oil Drain Plug: Crawl under the front of your Explorer ST and locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan. Consult your owner's manual if you're unsure where it is. Knowing where the drain plug is will make the process easier.
  4. Position the Drain Pan: Place the drain pan under the drain plug to catch the old oil. Make sure the drain pan is positioned correctly under the drain plug to catch all the oil.
  5. Remove the Drain Plug: Use the correct wrench to loosen and remove the drain plug. Be careful; the oil may be hot. Let the oil drain completely. Allow the oil to drain completely. This can take 15-20 minutes, depending on the oil's viscosity and the temperature.
  6. Remove the Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter. Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for a little oil to spill out. Removing the old oil filter is a critical step in the oil change process. Having the right tools, such as an oil filter wrench, can make this task easier and less messy.
  7. Prepare the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil. This will help create a good seal. Lubricating the rubber gasket ensures a proper seal, preventing leaks. This will also make it easier to remove the filter next time.
  8. Install the New Oil Filter: Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand. Tighten it according to the instructions on the filter. Installing the new oil filter correctly is essential. Over-tightening can damage the filter, while under-tightening can cause leaks.
  9. Install the Drain Plug: Once the oil has completely drained, clean the drain plug and reinstall it. Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specifications. Do not overtighten, as this could damage the oil pan. Overtightening can strip the threads on the oil pan, leading to leaks.
  10. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. Remove the jack stands and jack.
  11. Add New Oil: Open the hood and locate the oil fill cap. Remove the cap and insert the funnel. Pour in the correct amount of new oil as specified in your owner's manual. Be careful not to overfill.
  12. Check the Oil Level: Use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add more oil if needed until the level is within the correct range. Checking the oil level is crucial to ensure that the engine has the proper amount of oil. Overfilling can cause damage, and underfilling can lead to engine problems. Checking the oil level after the change ensures that the engine is properly lubricated.
  13. Start the Engine and Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If you spot any, tighten the components slightly. This step is crucial to ensure that there are no leaks. Check for leaks immediately after starting the engine. If there are leaks, tighten the drain plug or the oil filter until the leak stops. This can prevent serious engine problems. Running the engine briefly allows the oil to circulate and helps identify potential leaks.
  14. Reset the Oil Life Monitor: Your Explorer ST has an oil life monitor that needs to be reset after an oil change. Refer to your owner's manual for instructions on how to do this. Resetting the oil life monitor is a way to tell your car's computer that a new oil change has been performed. This ensures that the vehicle reminds you when it's time for the next oil change. Following the correct steps to reset the oil life monitor can help you keep track of your oil changes and maintain your engine's performance.
  15. Clean Up and Dispose of Oil Properly: Clean up any spills. Dispose of the old oil and oil filter responsibly at a recycling center or auto parts store. Make sure you properly dispose of the old oil and filter. Most auto parts stores will accept used oil and filters for recycling.

Tips and Tricks for a Smooth 2021 Ford Explorer ST Oil Change

To make your 2021 Ford Explorer ST oil change even smoother, here are a few extra tips:

  • Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes before starting the oil change. This will help the oil flow more freely. Warming up the engine before changing the oil makes the process quicker and more efficient. The warmer oil flows more easily, which means the old oil will drain faster. This ensures that most of the old oil is removed.
  • Use a Magnetic Drain Plug: Consider using a magnetic drain plug. This will help catch any metal particles in the oil, protecting your engine. A magnetic drain plug attracts metal particles in the oil, which is good for the engine. These particles can damage the engine components. Using a magnetic drain plug helps to keep the oil clean and reduces wear and tear on the engine.
  • Have a Friend Help: Having a friend assist you can make the job easier, especially if you're new to oil changes. Having a friend around to help is always a good idea. They can offer a second set of eyes, hand you tools, and provide extra support.
  • Take Your Time: Don't rush the process. Take your time to ensure everything is done correctly. Rushing can lead to mistakes that can damage your engine. Taking your time allows you to do the job right and helps ensure you don't miss any steps.
  • Keep Your Workspace Clean: Cleanliness is key. Wipe up any spills immediately to avoid making a mess. A clean workspace makes the job easier and prevents contaminants from getting into the engine. Keeping your workspace clean makes the process safer.
  • Check for Leaks: After the oil change, always check for any leaks. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Checking for leaks ensures everything is sealed properly. Leaks can cause oil pressure issues and damage the engine if not addressed promptly.

When to Change the Oil in Your 2021 Ford Explorer ST

Knowing when to change the oil is just as important as knowing how. Your 2021 Ford Explorer ST has an Intelligent Oil Life Monitor system that will tell you when it's time for an oil change. However, you should also consider the following:

  • Driving Conditions: If you frequently drive in harsh conditions (stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, towing), you may need to change the oil more frequently.
  • Oil Type: Synthetic oil generally lasts longer than conventional oil. Synthetic oil typically lasts longer than conventional oil, so you might be able to extend the intervals between changes. This allows you to go longer between oil changes while maintaining engine protection.
  • Mileage: Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations in your owner's manual. The owner's manual provides specific guidelines for oil change intervals based on driving conditions and the type of oil used.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Explorer ST in Top Shape

There you have it, guys! Changing the oil in your 2021 Ford Explorer ST is a manageable task that can save you money and keep your SUV running at its best. By following these steps and tips, you can confidently perform this essential maintenance task. Remember to always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and recommendations. Regular oil changes are one of the most important things you can do to maintain your Explorer ST and keep it performing at its peak for years to come. Now, go forth and keep your Ford Explorer ST running strong! And if you ever feel uncomfortable doing the oil change yourself, don't hesitate to take it to a trusted mechanic. They can ensure the job is done right.