Trouble finding oil...
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Joined: Aug 2004
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Originally Posted by txfx4x4
Those writers to whom this refers, please do not interpret my comment/question as argumentative. It is purely conversational.
I have read numerous posts here and in other forums stating the Ford's primary goal in using 5w20 is for reasons of stated fuel economy (CAFE) and emissions, both of which are completed during the government certification process. After the vehicle is sold, the CAFE scores and emissions results are immaterial. Given this statement, why would Ford recommend the continued use of 5w20 (as stated in the Owner's Guide), particularly if the use of some other viscosity (i.e. 5w30, 10w30, etc.) would result in better overall protection and/or performance? In years past, the recommended oil viscosity was presented in the Owner's Guide as a function of the prevalent weather conditions and several options were presented. Bear in mind that oil-related engine failures would cost Ford money in the long run due to excessive warranty repair costs. In short, if the Ford engineers didn't actually think that 5w20 was the best choice (read cheapest due to fewer warranty repairs), why would they present it as the single oil recommendation?
I have read numerous posts here and in other forums stating the Ford's primary goal in using 5w20 is for reasons of stated fuel economy (CAFE) and emissions, both of which are completed during the government certification process. After the vehicle is sold, the CAFE scores and emissions results are immaterial. Given this statement, why would Ford recommend the continued use of 5w20 (as stated in the Owner's Guide), particularly if the use of some other viscosity (i.e. 5w30, 10w30, etc.) would result in better overall protection and/or performance? In years past, the recommended oil viscosity was presented in the Owner's Guide as a function of the prevalent weather conditions and several options were presented. Bear in mind that oil-related engine failures would cost Ford money in the long run due to excessive warranty repair costs. In short, if the Ford engineers didn't actually think that 5w20 was the best choice (read cheapest due to fewer warranty repairs), why would they present it as the single oil recommendation?
I don't know about your dealership, but Village Ford in Dearborn Michigan gives the customer the option of 5W30 during their quick lube service. They do the 5W30 oil change for a few bucks less (5W20 costs them a little more $). The service manager told me that there is no warranty issue with switching to 5W30. He explained that it was a emissions and fuel economy issue (very slight decrease in fuel economy). In fact, he told me that it's is nearly impossible to find 5W20 in certain areas throughout the US.
Talk to your dealership's service manager if you have warranty concerns.
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cwatkin
Modular V8 (4.6L, 5.4L)
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Dec 3, 2012 06:43 PM
