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How to Change the Oil on a 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape
Changing the oil and oil filter in your 2008-2012 Ford Escape is a regular maintenance task that is meant to help maintain engine performance and protection to ensure a long engine life. The oil filter helps trap contaminants in the oil before it’s recirculated throughout your Escape’s engine to cool and lubricate the internal moving parts. It’s recommended that your Ford Escape’s oil filter be replaced during each oil change, in addition to adding fresh motor oil. Most 2008-2012 Ford Escape owner’s manuals suggest you change your SUV’s oil and oil filter when you see the Oil Change light illuminated on your dashboard, since your vehicle has an oil life monitoring system that continuously evaluates oil condition. You can also check the service manual for your Ford Escape, which details the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance intervals. Avoiding oil changes can eventually lead to engine wear, damage, and failure. These detailed instructions and video can help you perform a complete oil change on your Ford Escape.
Tools and Materials
Step-by-Step Instructions to Change the Oil on Your 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape

Step 1: Raise the Front End of the Vehicle
Do It Right: Learn how to safely lift your vehicle with this How-To page: How to Safely Jack Up Your Vehicle |

Step 2: Place an Oil Drain Pan

Step 3: Remove the Drain Plug

Step 4: Wipe Any Excess Oil from Surfaces

Step 5: Replace the Drain Plug

Step 6: Locate the Oil Filter

Step 7: Loosen the Oil Filter

Step 8: Remove the Oil Filter
Do It Right: Wipe down the area where the filter was threaded and make sure the old o-ring came off with the filter. |
Install the New Oil Filter & Add New Motor Oil

Step 9: Lubricate the New O-Ring

Step 10: Install the New Oil Filter

Step 11: Locate the Oil Fill Cap

Step 12: Refill the Motor Oil

Step 13: Check the Oil Level
Do It Right: Start the engine and let it run for at least 3 minutes. Then, turn off the engine and check the oil level again. |

Step 14: Check for Leaks

Step 15: Lower the Vehicle and Close the Hood

Step 16: Reset the Oil Life Indicator
Additional Resources
These step-by-step instructions and detailed video show an oil filter replacement and oil change on a 2008 Ford Escape XLT, and will be similar for 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 Ford Escapes. Replacing the oil filter and old oil ensures there is fresh, filtered oil to properly cool and lubricate your Escape’s engine components. Low oil levels, a clogged oil filter, and dirty oil can all cause engine damage, so make sure to perform a complete oil change when the Oil Change light appears or at the interval recommended in your owner’s manual. If you notice reduced engine performance, oil pressure problems, or metallic noises from the engine, you can also perform oil changes more often to ensure the best engine performance and service life.
The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.