Changing the oil in a 2013 or 2014 Ford F150 is a simple job that can save money and help your truck last longer. With the right oil, filter, and a few basic tools, you can do it at home in less than an hour. This guide walks you through the full process in plain language, so you can change the oil with confidence.

How to Change 2013 2014 Ford F150 Oil

If you drive a 2013 or 2014 Ford F150, oil changes are one of the easiest ways to keep it healthy. They do not take much time. They do not need fancy tools. And they can save you a good bit of money if you do them at home.

Many truck owners put off basic service because it sounds messy or hard. But how to change 2013 2014 Ford F150 oil is really just a simple routine. Drain the old oil, swap the filter, refill with fresh oil, and check the level. That is the whole job in a nutshell.

In this guide, I will walk you through the process step by step. I will also cover the oil type, the tools you need, common mistakes, and how to reset the oil life reminder when you are done. If you want more help with oil service basics, you may also like this guide on how to reset the oil light after an oil change.

Key Takeaways

• Use the right oil: Most 2013 and 2014 Ford F150 engines need SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, but always check your owner’s manual first.
• Replace the filter every time: A fresh filter helps keep dirt out of your engine and supports clean oil flow.
• Warm the engine first: Slightly warm oil drains faster and carries away more grime.
• Reset the oil life monitor: After the oil change, reset the system so the truck can track the next service interval.
• Watch the drain plug and filter: Tighten them properly to avoid leaks, but do not overtighten.
• Check your oil level after filling: Use the dipstick and top off as needed for the safest result.
• Stay on schedule: Regular oil changes help protect the engine, improve performance, and reduce wear.

What You Need Before You Start

Basic tools and supplies

Before you begin how to change 2013 2014 Ford F150 oil, gather everything first. That makes the job faster and cleaner. You do not want to crawl under the truck and then realize you forgot the drain pan.

• New engine oil
• New oil filter
• Oil filter wrench
• Socket wrench and correct socket for the drain plug
• Drain pan
• Funnel
• Shop towels or rags
• Jack and jack stands, if needed
• Gloves

Some F150 models sit high enough that you may not need ramps. Still, make sure you can reach the drain plug and filter safely. Never work under a truck that is not supported the right way.

Check the oil type first

The right oil depends on your engine. The 2013 and 2014 Ford F150 came with several engine choices, such as the 3.7L V6, 3.5L EcoBoost, 5.0L V8, and 6.2L V8. Many of these engines use SAE 5W-20, while some may call for SAE 5W-30. Always check your owner’s manual or oil cap for the exact spec.

If you have a high-mileage truck, you may also want to read about the best oil for high mileage Ford F150. That can help if your engine burns a little oil or has a lot of miles on it.

How To Change 2013 2014 Ford F150 Oil Step by Step

1. Warm up the engine

Start the truck and let it run for about five minutes. You want the oil warm, not hot. Warm oil flows better and drains faster. It also pulls more dirt and sludge out with it.

After that, turn the engine off and let it sit for a few minutes. This gives you a safer working temperature.

2. Park on a level surface

Park on flat ground if you can. Put the truck in park and set the parking brake. If you use ramps or a jack, make sure the truck is stable before going underneath it.

Safety matters here. A rushed oil change is not worth an injury.

3. Remove the oil fill cap

Open the hood and remove the oil fill cap. This helps air move through the engine while the oil drains. It is a small step, but it can help the oil come out more smoothly.

4. Drain the old oil

Slide the drain pan under the oil pan. Find the drain plug and loosen it with the correct socket. Be ready, because the oil may come out fast once the plug is free.

Let the oil drain fully. This can take a few minutes. While it drains, look at the oil. If it is very dark, that is normal. If you see shiny metal bits, that could be a sign of engine wear.

Once the oil slows to a drip, reinstall the drain plug. Tighten it snugly, but do not force it. Stripped threads can turn a simple job into an expensive one.

5. Replace the oil filter

Move the drain pan under the oil filter area. Use the oil filter wrench if needed. Some filters come off by hand, while others can be tight.

Before installing the new filter, put a thin coat of fresh oil on the rubber gasket. This helps it seal well and makes removal easier next time. Spin the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches, then tighten it about three-quarter turn more. Do not crank it down hard.

If you want to avoid a messy job, this is a good time to wipe the filter mount clean. A clean surface helps prevent leaks.

6. Add fresh oil

Now it is time to refill. Use a funnel and pour in the amount of oil your engine needs. Do not dump it all in at once if you are not sure of the exact capacity. Add most of it, then check the dipstick and top off slowly.

For many F150 engines, the oil capacity is around 6 to 8 quarts depending on engine type. But again, check your manual. The right amount matters just as much as the right oil.

7. Start the engine and check for leaks

Put the oil cap back on. Start the engine and let it run for about 30 to 60 seconds. Watch under the truck for leaks near the drain plug and filter.

Then shut the engine off and wait a few minutes. This gives the oil time to settle back into the pan so you can get a better dipstick reading.

8. Check the oil level

Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and pull it again. The oil should sit between the low and full marks. If it is low, add a little more. If it is too full, remove some oil before driving.

This final check is one of the most important parts of how to change 2013 2014 Ford F150 oil. It tells you whether the job was done right.

How Much Oil Does a 2013 or 2014 Ford F150 Need?

Oil capacity depends on the engine

Different engines need different amounts of oil. That is why it is so important not to guess. A 3.7L V6, 5.0L V8, or 3.5L EcoBoost may each need a different fill amount. The owner’s manual is the best source for the exact number.

If you do not have the manual, you can still look it up by engine code or VIN. That is much better than overfilling the crankcase.

Why the right amount matters

Too little oil can starve the engine. Too much oil can foam up and create pressure problems. Both can hurt performance. That is why careful measuring is part of how to change 2013 2014 Ford F150 oil the right way.

A simple tip is to add about 80 to 90 percent of the total amount first. Then check the dipstick. Finish with small top-offs until the level is right.

How Often Should You Change the Oil?

Follow your driving habits

Many owners ask how often they should service their truck. The answer depends on how you drive. If you tow, idle a lot, or drive in hot or dusty conditions, your oil may need changing sooner.

For many drivers, a good rule is every 5,000 to 7,500 miles with modern synthetic oil. Some drivers go a bit longer, but that depends on the oil used and the engine’s condition.

If you want another example of oil interval planning, see this guide on how often to change oil in a 2017 Tundra. The idea is the same: the best schedule depends on how the truck is used.

Watch for warning signs

Even if the mileage is not due yet, your truck may tell you it needs service. Dirty oil, louder engine noise, lower fuel economy, or an oil change reminder can all be signs. Do not ignore them.

If your oil light stays on after the service, you may need to reset the reminder. You can also check this guide on how to reset the maintenance light after an oil change if your truck uses a service reminder system.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Using the wrong oil

One of the biggest mistakes in how to change 2013 2014 Ford F150 oil is using the wrong grade. Not all oils are the same. The wrong viscosity can affect cold starts, oil pressure, and engine protection.

Forgetting the new filter

Some people change only the oil and leave the old filter in place. That is not a full oil change. The filter traps dirt, so it should be replaced every time.

Overtightening the drain plug or filter

Too much force can damage the threads or crush the gasket. Hand-tight plus a little more is usually enough for the filter. The drain plug should be snug, not brutal.

Not checking for leaks

Always inspect the truck after the oil change. A tiny leak can become a big problem if you miss it. Look under the engine and around the filter area before you call the job done.

Skipping the final dipstick check

This is a small step, but it matters a lot. The dipstick tells you if the oil level is safe. Never assume the fill was perfect without checking it.

Resetting the Oil Life Monitor on a 2013 or 2014 Ford F150

Why the reset matters

After you finish how to change 2013 2014 Ford F150 oil, the oil life monitor may still show that service is due. Resetting it helps the truck track the next change correctly. It also keeps warning lights from distracting you later.

Basic reset approach

The exact steps can vary by trim and display type, but many Ford trucks let you reset oil life through the steering wheel controls or dash menu. Usually, you turn the ignition on without starting the engine, find the oil life screen, and hold the OK or reset button until the system clears.

If you run into a light that will not go away, this guide on how to reset check engine light after oil change may help you understand what to do next. In some cases, the issue is not the oil change itself but a separate sensor or reminder.

Double-check the display

After the reset, make sure the oil life reads 100 percent or shows the proper service interval. If it does not, try again using the correct sequence for your model.

Final Tips for a Cleaner, Easier Oil Change

Use gloves and cardboard

Oil changes are easier when you keep things simple. Gloves keep your hands clean. A piece of cardboard under the drain pan can help catch drips. Small tricks like that make the job feel much less messy.

Dispose of used oil the right way

Never pour used oil down a drain or onto the ground. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center or auto parts store that accepts used oil. The old filter should be drained and recycled too, if local rules allow it.

Keep a service note

Write down the date, mileage, oil type, and filter brand. That makes future service much easier. It also helps you remember when the next oil change is due.

If you like doing your own maintenance, you may also enjoy learning about how to turn off the change oil light after service. It is a handy skill for any DIY driver.

Conclusion

Now you know how to change 2013 2014 Ford F150 oil from start to finish. The job is simple, low-cost, and very worth doing. With the right oil, a new filter, and a careful final check, you can protect your engine and keep your truck running strong.

Take your time. Follow the steps. Do not rush the drain, the refill, or the dipstick check. Once you do it once, the process gets even easier the next time. And that is one of the best parts of basic truck maintenance: a little effort now can save a lot of trouble later.

Frequently Asked Questions

What oil does a 2013 Ford F150 use?

It depends on the engine, but many 2013 Ford F150 models use SAE 5W-20. Some engines may call for a different grade, so always check the owner’s manual or oil cap before filling.

What oil does a 2014 Ford F150 use?

Many 2014 Ford F150 engines also use SAE 5W-20, though some versions may need SAE 5W-30. The safest move is to confirm the exact spec for your engine before you start the oil change.

How long does it take to change the oil on a Ford F150?

Most people can finish the job in about 30 to 60 minutes. If it is your first time, give yourself a little extra time so you can work slowly and check everything twice.

Do I need to change the oil filter every time?

Yes, it is best to replace the oil filter with every oil change. A fresh filter helps keep dirt and metal particles out of the engine oil.

Can I change the oil on my Ford F150 myself?

Yes, you can. The job is very manageable with basic tools and a little patience. Just make sure the truck is parked safely and you use the correct oil and filter.

Why is my oil light still on after an oil change?

The oil life monitor may need to be reset after service. If the light stays on after the reset, check the oil level again and make sure there are no leaks or other warning messages.