How to Change Your Ford Fusion's Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide

Why Oil Changes Matter for Your Fusion

Oil keeps your Ford Fusion's engine running smoothly. Over time, oil breaks down and collects dirt and debris. Changing your oil on a regular schedule helps your engine last longer and run better.

Most Fusion owners change their oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on their driving habits and the type of oil they use. Check your owner's manual to see what schedule works best for your vehicle. Regular oil changes are one of the most important maintenance tasks you can do to protect your engine and keep it performing well.

Without regular oil changes, your engine can suffer serious damage. Old, dirty oil loses its ability to protect engine parts from wear and heat. This can lead to reduced fuel economy, rough running, and eventually, engine failure. By staying on top of your oil change schedule, you're investing in the long life of your Fusion.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these items:

• New oil (the right type and amount for your Fusion)
• A new oil filter
• An oil drain pan
• A wrench or socket set
• An oil filter wrench
• Jack and jack stands (if you need to lift your car)
• A rag or paper towels
• Safety glasses
• Newspaper or cardboard to protect your work surface

Your owner's manual tells you exactly which oil to buy and how much your Fusion needs. The manual will specify the oil viscosity (thickness) and any certifications the oil should have. Using the correct oil is important for engine protection and performance.

You can find most of these items at auto parts stores, hardware stores, or online retailers. If you don't have a jack and jack stands, you may be able to work on level ground without lifting your car, depending on your Fusion's clearance and your height.

Getting Ready

Park your Fusion on a flat, level surface. Let the engine cool for a few minutes if you've been driving—hot oil can burn you. Safety should always come first when working on your vehicle.

If you need more room to work underneath your car, use a jack and jack stands to lift it safely. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. A jack can fail, and you could be seriously injured. Always use jack stands as a backup.

Put on your safety glasses before you begin. Lay down newspaper or cardboard to protect your driveway or garage floor from oil spills. This also makes cleanup easier when you're done.

Drain the Old Oil

Locate the oil drain plug underneath your engine. It's usually a bolt on the bottom of the oil pan. Place your drain pan underneath it to catch the old oil.

Use your wrench to loosen the drain plug by turning it counterclockwise. Once it's loose enough, carefully unscrew it by hand. Oil will flow out—be careful, as it may still be warm. Keep your hands clear of the stream.

Let all the old oil drain completely into the pan. This may take several minutes. While you're waiting, you can prepare the new filter and other items you'll need next.

Once the oil stops dripping, you're ready to move on to the next step. The drain plug should come out completely so you can inspect it and clean it before reinstalling.

Replace the Oil Filter

Find your oil filter. It's a cylindrical canister attached to the engine. On most Fusions, it's located on the side of the engine and is easy to reach.

Position your drain pan underneath the filter to catch any remaining oil. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen it by turning counterclockwise. Once it's loose, unscrew it by hand and set it aside.

Before installing the new filter, rub a thin layer of new oil around the rubber gasket (the ring) on top of the new filter. This helps create a tight seal and makes it easier to remove the filter next time.

Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the engine. Then turn it another three-quarters of a turn. Don't over-tighten it—hand-tight plus three-quarters of a turn is the right amount. Over-tightening can damage the filter and make it hard to remove later.

Add New Oil

Wipe the drain plug clean with a rag. Screw it back in by hand, then use your wrench to tighten it snugly. Don't over-tighten—you want it secure but not stripped.

Locate the oil filler cap on top of your engine. Twist it counterclockwise to remove it. Set it aside where you won't lose it.

Slowly pour the recommended amount of new oil into the opening. Check your owner's manual for the exact amount. Most Fusions take between 4 and 6 quarts, depending on the model year and engine size. Pour slowly to avoid spilling.

Replace the oil filler cap and twist it clockwise until it's snug. Make sure it's on tight so oil doesn't leak out while the engine is running.

Check Your Work

Start your engine and let it run for a minute. This circulates the new oil through your engine and helps the new filter fill with oil.

Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle. This gives you an accurate reading on the dipstick.

Pull out the dipstick (a long metal rod under the hood), wipe it clean with a rag, reinsert it fully, then pull it out again. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the stick. Most dipsticks have notches or a crosshatch pattern showing the safe range.

If the level is low, add a little more oil and check again. It's better to add oil in small amounts than to overfill your engine.

Clean Up

Dispose of your old oil properly. Many auto parts stores and recycling centers take used oil for free. Never pour it down the drain or into the ground—used oil is a pollutant and is harmful to the environment.

Lower your car back to the ground if you lifted it. Make sure it's stable before you get out from underneath.

Keep track of when you changed your oil so you know when to do it again. You can write the date and mileage on your oil filler cap or keep a log in your vehicle's manual.

Key Takeaways

• Regular oil changes help your Fusion's engine run better and last longer
• Check your owner's manual for the correct oil type and how often to change it
• Always let the engine cool before working on it
• Use jack stands if you lift your car—never work under a car supported only by a jack
• Replace both the oil and the oil filter during each oil change
• Check the oil level after adding new oil to make sure it's in the safe range
• Dispose of old oil at a recycling center or auto parts store

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the oil in my Fusion?

Most Ford Fusions need an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. The exact interval depends on your driving habits, the type of oil you use, and your model year. Newer Fusions may have longer intervals than older ones. Always check your owner's manual for the recommended schedule for your specific vehicle. If you do a lot of short trips, towing, or driving in dusty conditions, you may need to change your oil more often.

What type of oil does my Fusion use?

The correct oil type for your Fusion is listed in your owner's manual. Different model years and engine sizes may use different oils. Common options include 0W-20, 5W-20, and 5W-30. The numbers refer to the oil's thickness at different temperatures. Using the wrong oil can affect engine performance and protection. When you buy oil, make sure the label matches what your manual recommends.

Can I change my Fusion's oil without lifting the car?

It depends on your Fusion's ground clearance and your height. Some people can reach the drain plug and filter without lifting the car, especially on newer models with higher clearance. If you do need to lift your car, always use a jack and jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. If you're not comfortable working underneath your vehicle, it's better to take your Fusion to a mechanic or service center.

What should I do with the old oil?

Never pour old oil down the drain, into the ground, or into the trash. Used oil is a pollutant and is harmful to the environment. Instead, take it to an auto parts store, recycling center, or service station that accepts used oil. Most places take it for free. You can also check Earth911.com or call your local waste management facility to find a drop-off location near you.

How tight should I make the oil filter?

Hand-tight plus three-quarters of a turn is the correct amount. Don't over-tighten the filter. Over-tightening can damage the rubber gasket and make it hard to remove the filter next time. It can also cause the filter to leak. If you over-tighten, you may need to drain the oil again to remove and replace it.