Advice on oil/brake fluids, etc.

[PA2000Explorer]

I am a new owner of a 2000 XLT V8 with 102K. The vehicle has been well maintained, but I don't know what types of oil, etc were previously used. If synthetic fluids were not used before is there any downside to using same now and are such products worth the extra money? Also, do bug/sunroof deflectors reduce road noise? Thanks in advance. P.S. This is a very informative forum.

 

[Varsity]

Well, lots of people on here do use synthetic oils in their Explorers with no problems, but I wouldn't recommend it personally. Yes it is usually worth the money as some people see an MPG increase but I'm not keen on using synthetics on a 100k+ motor. Heck, my Explorer has 88k and I mainly use 10W-40 and sometimes 30. Sadly I have no experience with bug and sunroof deflectors, but I plan on getting a bug deflector soon.

 

[Big Z]

I use both synthetic and conventional lubricants. Doesn't make any difference to me, as long as they're used appropriately. Synthetics are generally more expensive at first, but last longer (so, they're cheaper!). I would say 'no' on the deflectors cutting noise.

 

[crunchie_frog]

Hi PA,

I love the V8 AWD 2000, I have two of them. I also bought them used one at ~100K the other at ~150K. I usually go to walmart and get the motorcraft synthetic blend 5W-20 and the motorcraft filters for the oil changes. If you are interested in reading about what others think about what types of oil and how often to change, try Bob is the Oil Guy forum. You can read more there about oil than you would ever care to read...

 

[dcdyd]

I use MObile 1 synthetic oil for my 98 EB V8. It has 106K right now. I just use shop brand DOT3 break fluid from Oreilly.

 

[jlsparky7]

Rule of thumb you usually get what you pay for. I recommend syn oil.

Check the links in my signature for some how tos.

 

[66427]

2001 5.0 purchased new, now has 140k
Mobil 1 oil since second oil change
Valvoline synthetic brake fluid
Soon will be doing a tranny flush (and transfer case) to Mobil synthetic ATF.