I have a 2004 Ford Focus with 2.3L PZEV engine, and the owner's manual says to use 5W20 motor oil. I am used to using 5W30 in all my other vehicles. The 5W20 is more expensive and harder to find. Is it really necessary to use 5W20 in this vehicle?

Mark B.

 

Yes it is. Newer engines and made with tighter clearances. My 2002 Focus calls for it and that is what I use. 5W-20 has been said that is offers equal or more protection that 5W-30. And you can't go wrong with Motorcraft. it is an EXCELLENT oil.

Read this: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...d.php?t=157240 Excellent write-up by Flash: The Resident Oil Expert.

-Matt

 

5w20 actually isn't too hard to find any more. They use it in Hondas too. I get mine at TSC by the case, much cheaper there than Canadian Tire or Walmart.

 

5w20 is very easy to get and the same price as other oils. check walmart or kragen even napa sells it.

 

I believe that 5w-20 oil is a synthetic blend, and Castrol makes lots of it,at least
i never have any trouble finding it in any autoparts stores around my area, they
seem to always have it on hand.

 

I have 2 cars that call for 5W20 and one for 5W30. I buy Motorcraft synthetic blend from Walmart and the price is the same. Most new cars are made for 5W20 and it is much more available than it was even last year. One of my cars with 5W20 has 93,000+ miles on it and it runs great and uses no oil.