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How to Change Your Engine Oil & Filter: 2004-2008 Ford F-150

Routine oil and filter changes are the most effective way to protect your engine, maximize fuel efficiency, and keep your truck running smoothly. Over time, motor oil breaks down and loses its ability to lubricate, while the oil filter traps harmful debris that can cause internal engine wear.

Changing your oil is a straightforward DIY project that you can easily complete with basic tools. To help you get the job done quickly, O’Reilly Auto Parts has put together a guide to walk you through the process. Our DIY video shows the steps on a 2006 Ford F-150 equipped with a 5.4L V8 engine.

While the steps and oil specifications are similar for most 2004 to 2008 F-150 models and other Ford 5.4L engines, always check your owners manual for your specific details before getting started.


Tools & Supplies

Step-by-Step Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Product Recommendations

Additional Resources

Tools & Supplies for the Job

How to Change Your 2004-2008 Ford F-150 Engine Oil: Step-by-Step

Auto parts professional preparing to change the oil in a Ford F-150

Step 1: Prep and Safety

Park your truck on a level surface and open the hood. If you need extra ground clearance, chock the rear wheels, lift the front end with a hydraulic jack, and support it securely with jack stands. Put on your safety glasses and gloves.
Auto parts professional removing an oil fill cap and positioning a drain pan

Step 2: Remove the Oil Fill Cap & Position the Drain Pan

Locate and remove the oil fill cap on top of the engine. Removing the cap relieves pressure and helps the old oil drain more quickly. Then, slide your drain pan directly underneath the drain plug on the bottom of the engine oil pan.
Auto parts professional removing a drain plug and oil from a Ford F-150

Step 3: Remove the Drain Plug & Drain the Oil

Use a ratchet and 16mm socket to loosen the drain plug. Once it is loose, remove the plug with your fingers and allow the oil to drain completely.
Auto parts professional reinstalling a drain plug on a Ford F-150

Step 4: Reinstall the Drain Plug

Use a shop towel or rag to wipe down the oil pan and the drain plug. Reinstall the plug by hand, and then use a torque wrench to tighten it to 10 foot-pounds.
Auto parts professional removing an old oil filter from a Ford F-150

Step 5: Remove the Old Filter & Clean the Housing

Move your drain pan so it sits directly underneath the oil filter. Position an oil filter wrench around the filter to loosen it. Once any excess oil has finished draining from the housing, use a shop towel to wipe the area down.
Auto parts professional prepping a new Ford F-150 oil filter

Step 6: Prep & Install the New Filter

Lubricate the rubber O-ring seal on top of your new filter with fresh motor oil to ensure a proper seal. Thread the new filter onto the housing until it’s seated firmly. Tighten it an additional three-quarters of a turn, or use a torque wrench with a filter attachment to tighten it to 12 foot-pounds.

Auto parts professional adding 7 quarts of motor oil to a Ford F-150

Step 7: Add the New Oil & Check for Leaks

Remove the oil fill cap if you haven’t already, and place a funnel into the opening. Carefully add 7 quarts of 5W-20 full synthetic motor oil. Remove the funnel and put the oil fill cap back on. Start the engine and look underneath the truck to check both the drain plug and the new filter for any signs of leaks.
Auto parts professional checking the oil level in a Ford F-150

Step 8: Double-Check the Oil Level

Turn the engine off and let the oil settle for a few minutes. Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check the oil level. Top off if needed, then close the hood.
Auto parts professional lowering a Ford F-150 from jack stands

Step 9: Clean Up & Lower the Vehicle

Remove the drain pan from under the truck. If you raised the front end, safely lower the truck from the jack stands and remove the wheel chocks.

If you aren’t comfortable changing the oil in your Ford F-150, stop by your local O’Reilly Auto Parts. We can recommend a professional shop or a Certified Auto Repair Service Center in your area to get the job done right.

How to Reset a 2004-2008 Ford F-150 Oil Life Light

Once you’re finished changing the oil, you’ll need to clear the oil life light on the dashboard so you can track your next oil change date accurately.


1. Turn the Key to the ON Position

Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position without starting the engine.

2. Access the Setup Menu & Oil Percentage

Locate the Select/Reset button at the bottom of your speedometer. Press the button until the dashboard display reads Hold Reset for Setup Menu. Press and hold the button down for a few seconds. Release the button once the screen updates to display your current oil life percentage.

3. Reset the Oil Life Percentage

Press and hold the Select/Reset button one more time. Hold it down until the display updates to show that your oil life percentage has been reset to 100%. Then, turn the key back to the OFF position.

Frequently Asked Questions: Ford F-150 Oil Change

What should I do with my used motor oil and filter?

Never pour used motor oil down a household drain or storm sewer, and avoid tossing your used filter into the regular trash. Instead, bring your used motor oil and old filter to your nearest O’Reilly Auto Parts store. We offer free fluid and battery recycling to help you dispose of automotive fluids safely and responsibly.

What kind of oil should I put in a 2004-2008 Ford F-150?

The 2004 through 2008 Ford F-150 with a 5.4L V8 engine requires 5W-20 motor oil and holds exactly 7 quarts when changing both the oil and the filter. For these model years, Ford specifies using a premium synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.

Why should I use high-mileage oil in my Ford F-150?

If your truck has passed 75,000 miles, switching to a high-mileage motor oil helps protect aging engine seals. This type of oil features specialized conditioners that prevent seal degradation, minimize internal oil consumption, and reduce friction to extend the life of your engine.

Product Recommendations

Product Comparison Table
Item Recommended Product Purpose
Motor Oil
O’Reilly Full Synthetic High Mileage Motor Oil 5W-20 (7 Quarts) Lubricates internal engine components and protects high-mileage engines
Oil Filter
MicroGard Select Oil Filter Traps dirt, debris, and contaminants before they circulate through the engine
Wrench & Sockets
Ratchet and 16mm Socket Used to loosen and remove the drain plug
Filter Wrench
Oil Filter Wrench Used to loosen and remove the old oil filter
Oil Disposal
Drain Pan & Funnel Catches old oil and helps pour new motor oil without spilling
Safety Gear
Nitrile Gloves & Eye Protection Protects you from battery acid and debris during the installation
Optional Equipment
Jack, Jack Stands, & Wheel Chocks Provides extra under-vehicle clearance and holds the truck securely

Additional Resources

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.