Ensuring your 2008 Ford Explorer with the 4.6L 8-cylinder engine runs smoothly for years requires more than just filling up the gas tank. Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of your vehicle, protecting critical internal components from wear, heat, and corrosion. Because this engine has been in service for nearly two decades, the right oil and fluid choices become even more important to prevent sludge buildup, reduce oil consumption, and maintain performance under varying driving conditions. Whether you are tackling daily commutes, hauling cargo, or navigating extreme weather, using the correct synthetic lubricants can significantly extend the life of your drivetrain.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
The following AMSOIL products are specifically formulated to meet the demands of your 2008 Ford Explorer 4.6L engine and its various transmission and differential systems. Selecting the right combination based on your mileage and driving style ensures maximum protection and performance.
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers the highest level of engine protection available, designed to handle the rigors of extreme temperatures and heavy towing while extending drain intervals up to 25,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides an excellent balance of cleaning power and protection, ideal for drivers who want extended drain intervals up to 20,000 miles without sacrificing engine cleanliness.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective full synthetic option that fights sludge and deposits while meeting the original equipment specifications for a reliable, everyday driving experience.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specially formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles to boost detergents, reduce sludge, and help seal worn engine components to minimize oil consumption.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers superior filtration efficiency with greater capacity to capture contaminants, keeping your engine lubricated and reducing wear more effectively than standard filters.
- WIX XP Oil Filter – Features premium media that offers improvements over standard OEM filters, ensuring robust protection against wear during your oil change interval.
- WIX Oil Filter – A reliable choice for routine maintenance, offering premium filtration performance to match conventional or synthetic oil changes.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique OAT formulation that protects cooling system metals and gaskets for up to 150,000 miles, compatible with all vehicle types requiring 50/50 pre-mix.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated, low-toxicity coolant option that offers protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years for passenger cars and light trucks.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand heavy towing and elevated temperatures while providing smooth, shudder-free shifts in automatic transmissions like the 5R55S and 6R60.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – An economical full synthetic transmission fluid that resists sludge, guards against leaks, and promotes smooth shifting.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Engineered to reduce friction for improved fuel economy while maintaining the durability required for severe driving conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides a cost-effective fuel-efficient solution for transmission protection and smooth operation.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – An advanced gear lubricant for front differentials that controls thermal runaway and provides long-lasting protection for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Offers superior performance in extreme temperatures and heavy loads for front and rear differentials requiring GL-5 gear oil.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for rear differentials with higher viscosity requirements, providing exceptional protection for conventional and limited-slip rear ends.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction-control systems with a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
Engine Oil Recommendations for the 4.6L V8
The heart of your 2008 Ford Explorer is the 4.6L V8 engine, a robust powerplant known for its smooth operation and durability. However, as an older engine, it requires fluids that can handle the nuances of age and high mileage. The factory-recommended viscosity for this engine is 5W-20 across all temperatures. This thickness ensures proper flow during cold starts while maintaining a protective film at operating temperatures.
For those seeking the absolute best in protection, AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 is the top choice. It is designed to withstand severe conditions, from the heat of a highway tow to the cold of winter mornings. It offers up to 25,000 miles of protection between changes, reducing wear significantly compared to conventional oils. If your vehicle has accumulated over 75,000 miles, the AMSOIL 5W-20 High-Mileage motor oil is a specialized alternative. Its unique chemistry includes boosted detergents to clean sludge and dispersants that help engines last longer, along with additives to reduce oil consumption and seal leaks.
For drivers who prefer a balance between cost and premium synthetic performance, the AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 provides 37% more cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother, with guaranteed protection for up to 20,000 miles. Similarly, the AMSOIL OE 5W-20 offers full synthetic protection that outperforms conventional oils and fights sludge effectively, meeting OEM standards without the premium price tag.
Filtration and Oil Change Capabilities
Changing the oil is only half the equation; the filter must work in tandem with the oil to trap contaminants. A dirty filter can restrict oil flow, leading to increased engine wear regardless of the oil’s quality. For this vehicle, the recommended oil capacity is 6.3 quarts, including the filter replacement.
When performing your service, pairing your oil with a high-quality filter is essential. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO11-EA) is designed for extended service intervals. It provides a filtration efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns, meaning it captures a vast majority of wear-causing contaminants. This filter also features greater capacity for small particles and lower restriction compared to competing brands, ensuring a steady stream of oil reaches all engine components.
Alternatively, the WIX XP Oil Filter (51372XP-EA) offers premium media that improves upon original equipment manufacturer filters. It is a robust choice for those who prefer the WIX brand, providing reliable protection and filtration for the 4.6L engine. For a standard maintenance routine, the WIX Oil Filter (51372-EA) also delivers premium media performance at a competitive point of sale.
Automatic Transmission Fluid and Lubrication
The transmission in your Explorer is critical for its power delivery. Depending on your specific transmission model, the fluid requirements vary. Vehicles equipped with the 5-speed 5R55S automatic transmission require a total fill of approximately 12.4 quarts, while the 6-speed 6R60 transmission requires about 11.1 quarts for a total fill, with 5 quarts for an initial fill if applicable.
To maintain shift quality and protect the transmission internals from wear and heat, AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is an excellent choice. It is formulated to remain fluid in sub-zero temperatures and withstand the heat generated during heavy towing or challenging terrain. If you are looking for a fuel-efficient option to maximize your miles per gallon, the AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient ATF reduces internal friction without compromising durability.
The AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is another strong contender, offering excellent cold-weather performance and resistance to sludge formation. It helps guard against leaks and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts. For those specifically seeking fuel economy benefits in their transmission fluid, the AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid provides these advantages at a very accessible price point.
Differential and Transfer Case Lubricants
Proper lubrication of the differential and transfer case is vital for 4WD operation and power transfer. The front differential typically requires 2.7 pints of GL-5 gear oil. The rear differential depends on whether it is a standard or limited-slip (Traction-Lok) unit, with a capacity of 3.6 pints for both configurations.
For the front differential, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 offers advanced protection against wear and rust. It helps control thermal runaway and contains friction modifiers specifically beneficial for limited-slip applications. For those seeking broader temperature performance, the AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 is a versatile synthetic gear lube that excels in extreme cold and high-heat environments.
The rear differential often benefits from a heavier viscosity for heavy-duty loads. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 is highly recommended for both standard rear differentials and limited-slip variants. It provides superior protection against metal-to-metal contact, helping to reduce operating temperatures and extend the life of your gears and seals. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 is another option for those needing a middle-ground viscosity for specific driving needs.
Cooling, Braking, and Seasonal Maintenance
Keeping your engine at the correct temperature is crucial for longevity. The cooling system capacity varies based on the heater configuration, with approximately 15.7 quarts for vehicles with the RR Heater and 13.9 quarts with the AUX Heater. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is an ethylene glycol-based 50/50 pre-mix that protects all cooling system metals and hoses. It is free of phosphates and nitrates, ensuring compatibility with all radiator types.
For those who prefer a concentrated coolant, AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers a lower toxicity option that surpasses industry standards for corrosion protection. It is suitable for a wide range of vehicles and provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years.
Brake safety should never be overlooked. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid offers excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction-control systems. It maintains a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent pedal feel and safe stopping power in all weather conditions.
About the Vehicle
The 2008 Ford Explorer represents a significant era in the history of mid-size SUVs, blending rugged utility with a comfortable ride. Built on the rugged chassis of a pickup truck, the Explorer of this generation is renowned for its capability to handle both daily family hauling and off-road adventures. Powered by the robust 4.6L V8 engine, this model delivers a balance of torque and power that makes it a favorite for towing light trailers and navigating rough terrain.
Owners of the 2008 Explorer often appreciate its versatility. Whether used as a workhorse for outdoor enthusiasts or a reliable family hauler for suburban commutes, the vehicle’s suspension and 4WD system provide a sense of security and capability that few other SUVs of the time could match. The 4.6L engine, part of Ford’s modular V8 family, is known for its smooth operation and relatively simple maintenance requirements, though like any vehicle approaching two decades of age, regular fluid changes become even more critical to its longevity. This model year sits in a sweet spot for enthusiasts who value the classic SUV look and feel without the complexity of newer electronic systems, making it a practical and durable choice for a wide variety of drivers.