Best Oil for 7.3 Powerstroke in 2021

Your 7.3 Powerstroke diesel Ford truck engine is meant to last, but you must take care of it. With the proper care, your engine will last hundreds of thousands of miles, ensuring you are never left stranded. To accomplish this longevity, you must perform regular oil changes. But, what is the best oil for 7.3 Powerstroke models?

We review the top choices when you need 7.3 Powerstroke oil. Our selection includes budget-friendly oils and high-mileage formulations, so there’s something for every truck. You don’t have to spend a lot to ensure that your truck continues running.

What is the 7.3 Powerstroke Engine?

The 7.3 Powerstroke is recognized as one of the most reliable diesel motors that was ever produced by Ford. The first model to receive this engine was a 1997 truck, which replaced the 7.3 IDI motor. With the upgrade, the truck received a complete overhaul in performance and design.

The direct-injection, turbocharged V8 diesel motor is based on the T444E engine. With the Powerstroke lineup in the F-Series trucks, these diesel models became the best-selling option.

The 7.3 Powerstroke continued through 2004 when it was replaced with the 6.0 Powerstroke. At the time, there was a stronger demand for reduced emissions and better fuel economy, which the 6.0 Powerstroke provided. However, the new model couldn’t compare to the reliability of the 7.3.

What is the Recommended Oil for 7.3 Powerstroke?

Your 7.3 Powerstroke oil type is 15W-40, as recommended by Ford. This is the same type through every production year according to manufacturer guidelines. However, some owners choose to use a different viscosity based on their need.

Oil for 7.3 Powerstroke Buying Guide

As you decide what motor oil to use in your 7.3 Powerstroke, consider these important factors.

Viscosity

While Ford recommends using SAE15W-40 for the 7.3 Powerstroke engine, there are also some guidelines about various temperature conditions and viscosities. Both 15W-40 and 10W-30 diesel oils are preferred, but thinner options, such as 5W-30 and 0W-30, might be more suitable for some subzero conditions.

Capacity

Your 7.3 Powerstroke engine is going to use 15 quarts of oil during a change. To refill the entire engine, you will need three 5-quart bottles, so make sure you purchase enough.

Mileage

You must consider how many miles are on the odometer before choosing motor oil. Considering your engine is quite old by now, it likely has a lot of miles on it. At this point, it might start showing signs of wear. Because of this, you might prefer a high-mileage oil that includes detergents for cleaning out sludge and deposits.

If you want your truck to last beyond 300,000 miles, using these specially-formulated oils is key. You also want to make sure you are changing it often.

Additives

Oil alone isn’t going to prevent the buildup of contaminants in the engine. That’s why premium oils contain special additives, including some with detergents. Of course, there are other additives to consider as well. Look for formulations with anti-wear agents, corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants and dispersants included.

Conventional vs. Synthetic

Conventional diesel oil is natural, coming from the ground. Synthetic oils, on the other hand, are manufactured. These are chemically developed out of petrochemicals to have the molecular qualities needed for a particular application. Conventional oil needs to be changed more frequently because it breaks down faster, but it is also cheaper.

Synthetic oil is designed to remove more impurities from the oil and it handles the demands of hard-working engines better. These oils also contain specific additives to prevent against rust, reduce wear or clean out sludge, depending on what the manufacturers add.

There’s also the option to purchase a synthetic blend. These oils contain conventional oil, but are also specially formulated to add extra properties that might be beneficial. As you choose the best oil for your 7.3 Powerstroke, choose the formula that meets your needs.

Best Oil for 7.3 Powerstroke Diesel: Top 7 Options Reviewed

1. Shell Rotella T 15W-40 Review: Best 7.3 Powerstroke Synthetic Oil Blend

As a synthetic blend, the Shell Rotella provides a perfect mixture of affordability with performance. The diesel motor oil contains a synthetic blend of oil and special additives to enhance engine durability. The 15W-40 viscosity ensures decent performance at all temperatures.

While it isn’t labeled for high-mileage engines, it has plenty of use on your older Powerstroke. Not only will it control deposits, but it also provides wear protection. It also improves the oil breakdown resistance to help the liquid last longer, even while under extreme stress.

Because your 2001 7.3 Powerstroke engine will require 15 quarts of oil, you will need to purchase several gallons of Shell Rotella. However, the price is reasonable, ensuring that you get your oil change done for less.

Features:

• Type: Synthetic Blend
• Viscosity: 15W-40
• Available Sizes: 1 Gallon
• Oil Breakdown Resistance Protection

Pros	Cons
Affordable price	Not full synthetic
Highly rated
Controls deposits
Formula helps oil last longer

2. Motorcraft 15W40 Review: Best Conventional Motor Oil

This high-quality diesel oil is manufactured by Ford, ensuring that your Powerstroke engine gets precisely what it needs. While it isn’t a synthetic formula, Ford uses premium hydro-processed base oil to ensure it is on par with the higher-end brands.

There are also special additives included to protect the engine, reduce sludge buildup and increase performance. It also meets 2007 exhaust emission standards to ensure a better burn for the environment.

The only trouble with this oil is the price. You are going to spend the same price as you would on synthetic oil even though, technically, this is not. However, using genuine Ford liquids in your engine ensures it functions the way it was intended, and that is priceless.

Features:

• Type: Conventional
• Viscosity: 15W-40
• Available Sizes: 5 Quart
• Hydo-Processed Base Oils

Pros	Cons
Made by Ford	Expensive
Includes special additives	Not synthetic
Meets emission standards
Improves engine performance

3. AmazonBasics 5W40 Review: Best Synthetic Motor Oil

If you want synthetic oil at a conventional oil price, the AmazonBasics might be right for you. This 5W-40 formulation provides more fuel efficiency than the 15W-40 and reduces consumption dramatically. It also helps produce fewer exhaust emissions for a better burn.

If you wanted to push out your changing interval, this higher-mileage oil might be best for you.  It’s great for all temperatures but especially performs when trying to start your truck on a cold morning. There is also a protective film in the oil that reduces engine component wear.

The only trouble with this oil is it lacks some manufacturer endorsements. With that said, users don’t seem disappointed in the performance, as this is one of the highest-rated options on the market. It’s certainly worth a shot if you want to save some money.

Features:

• Type: Synthetic
• Viscosity: 5W-40
• Available Sizes: 1 Gallon
• Longer Changing Interval

Pros	Cons
Cheap	Not recognized by some manufacturers
Reduces emissions
Removes buildup
Highly rated

4. Delo 15W40 Review: Best Cheap Diesel Motor Oil

While some people prefer to use Delo 10W30, that’s not the recommended viscosity for your Powerstroke. Instead, we recommend the 15W-40, which comes at a bargain-basement price. It’s a premium synthetic blend of oil and additives meant for fleet engines.

The oil is specifically engineered to deliver a longer engine oil life and offer better protection against wear. In the end, you can expect your motor to last longer than it would have. Plus, the formula is certified to be clean. Among the additives included, you will receive piston deposit control, detergents and dispersants for all-around protection.

While the price of this oil is lower than most, you might need to change it a little more frequently than some. However, that doesn’t seem to stop customers from leaving plenty of five-star reviews.

Features:

• Type: Synthetic Blend
• Viscosity: 15W-40
• Available Sizes: 1 Gallon
• Premium Blend of Additives

Pros	Cons
Cheap	Might require more frequent changing
Clean burn
Controls deposits
Top choice among drivers

5. Valvoline Premium Blue Review: Most Reliable Brand

When it comes to motor oil, few companies do it as good as Valvoline. This conventional 15W40 motor oil works great in heavy-duty engines, such as your Powerstroke. In fact, this is the only motor oil that is recommended by Cummins, so you know it is going to perform.

The oil provides superior oxidation resistance to support a longer life while protecting your Ford engine. Plus, the wear protection is specifically meant for your heavy-duty truck and the stress you put it through. You can also buy this oil in bulk to make your oil change even easier.

Sadly, this isn’t synthetic oil or blend, but the typical conventional formula. Because of this, you might need to change your oil more frequently, but that doesn’t seem to deter customers who trust the name and formula.

Features:

• Type: Conventional
• Viscosity: 15W-40
• Available Sizes: 1 Gallon, 2.5 Gallon, 5 Gallon
• Meant for Heavy-Duty Trucks

Pros	Cons
Well-known brand	Not synthetic formula
Superior oxidation resistance
Available to buy in larger quantities
Cleans out deposits

6. Royal Purple 15W40 Review: Top of the Line Diesel Oil

If you want a premium option, you know you can count on Royal Purple. This company is known for increasing engine performance and protecting valuable motors. This full synthetic diesel oil provides the wear protection you need for longer engine life.

Plus, it is known to improve fuel efficiency, so you spend less at the pump. With protection of the catalytic emission system, you save yourself from costly repairs too. While we are happy that this formula comes in bulk, one purchase won’t be enough to change your Powerstroke oil. You will need to buy two and will have some leftover.

With that said, you are going to spend a lot more on Royal Purple. However, anyone that has used it knows it is worth every extra penny, especially when you save yourself from needing a new diesel engine in your Ford truck.

Features:

• Type: Synthetic
• Viscosity: 15W-40
• Available Sizes: 1 Gallon(x3)
• Premium Formula

Pros	Cons
High-end motor oil	Expensive
Improved engine performance	Can’t get the exact amount needed for an oil change
Protects against engine and exhaust repairs
Full synthetic

7. Lucas Oil 15W40 Review: Longest-Lasting Diesel Motor Oil

If you talk about engine performance, you have to think of Lucas. This premium motor oil is known for its long-lasting properties that help you extend the time between changes. Plus, the formula ensures less oil consumption and reduced engine wear.

This synthetic diesel oil is going to resist oxidation and protect against thermal breakdown, making it an ideal choice for your older Powerstroke engine. With the high detergent levels, this Lucas oil holds up to twice the contamination as typical oils while supplying superior lubrication.

To get premium oil, such as the one from Lucas, you need to be ready to pay for it. However, when you consider how many fewer oil changes you will need to do, you quickly see how it pays for itself after a few tune-ups.

Features:

• Type: Synthetic
• Viscosity: 15W-40
• Available Sizes: 1 Gallon
• Long-Lasting Formula

Pros	Cons
Made for performance	Expensive
Highly rated
Holds twice the contaminants
Full synthetic

Signs it’s Time to Change Your 7.3 Oil

The diesel engine is not cheap to replace, which is why you regularly change the oil. To ensure that you don’t need expensive vehicle repairs, change your oil at the first sign of these symptoms.

Exhaust Smoke

Most vehicles aren’t going to release an excessive amount of exhaust from the tailpipes. If you start to notice a smoke trail behind the truck, you might need to do an oil change. This symptom often occurs when the oil becomes old and broken down.

However, the exhaust smoke can also be an indication that there’s a larger problem, such as a cracked gasket. If an oil change doesn’t stop the smoke, have your diesel engine looked at.

Diminishing Oil Levels

It isn’t abnormal to top off the oil occasionally. However, if you start to notice the engine using more oil than normal, it might be that the lubrication has gotten old and isn’t as effective. It could also mean that there’s a larger engine issue brewing.

Engine Noise

Diesel oil is meant to lubricate the engine, keeping all of the parts working smoothly without friction. However, broken down oil doesn’t have the same texture, which leaves these valuable components vulnerable to rubbing and damage. Trouble with the oil can lead to a ticking or knocking sound.

Poor Oil Texture

As oil gets older, it turns a darker color. It can also pick up small contaminants that make it grittier. When you check the oil, look at more than just the level. Make sure you also examine the consistency. If there is grit included, it’s time for a change.

Decreased Fuel Economy

It’s important to monitor your fuel economy because this simple calculation can alert you to small and big troubles. When the oil gets old, the engine runs less efficiently, creating a drop in your gas mileage. A simple tune-up might be all you need when the economy seems to decrease, or you might be looking at something more severe.

Check Engine Light

Whenever the Check Engine Light comes on, you should take notice. While most people won’t see this indicator because of old oil, severe cases can flag an alert. Try to do an old change to see if the symbol goes away. Otherwise, you will need to use an OBDII scanner to read the trouble codes.

Shaking & Vibrations

A high friction level can create a change in the ride quality. When your truck idles, you might feel some shaking or vibration because the engine isn’t running efficiently. Get your oil changed for a smoother ride once again.

Changing the 7.3 Powerstroke Oil: Step-by-Step Instructions

When the time comes to change your 7.3 oil, follow these simple steps.

1. Park on a Level Spot.

You might not have a perfectly level spot to work, but you should try to park at the location where it is most level. You will find the job is easier when on level ground.

Additionally, you should set the truck’s emergency brake and use wheel chocks to keep it from moving.

2. Prevent a Mess

You don’t want to deal with an oil spill on your driveway when you are done. Lay a drop cloth or tarp down under the oil catch pan, just in case. This way, if some of the oil splashes, it won’t be difficult to clean up.

3. Gather Supplies

While you are under your Ford truck, you don’t want to start searching for your tools. Gather all the supplies you need ahead of time. Consider having these on hand:

• Shop towels
• Oil drain pan
• Oil filter wrench
• New oil filter
• New oil
• Dropcloth or tarp
• Funnel

4. Make a Note of Mileage

The only way to ensure you perform regular oil changes is by recording the current mileage. Use a black permanent marker and put the next oil change interval right on the filter housing. Or, you can change your oil every time the odometer hits a 5k milestone.

5. Loosen Oil Cap

You want to gently loosen the filler cap but not remove it. By opening it slightly, you allow the oil to flow freely when the drain plug comes out. Plus, taking it off completely means anything can get inside, which would be bad news.

6. Remove the Oil Drain Plug

With the drain pan lined up perfectly below the plug, you can remove it. Be very careful that it doesn’t drop into the oil drain pan or you will be wrist-deep in oil looking for it.

Do yourself a favor and find something else to do for a minute. Otherwise, you might be tempted to move on before all of the oil has trickled out.

7. Reinstall the Drain Plug

Once all of the oil has poured out, it’s time to put the drain plug back in. Use a new crush washer for the best seal.

8. Take off the Oil Filter

Whatever you do, don’t slam a screwdriver into the filter to drain it. Yes, it can be messy removing the filter, but it’s better than causing damage to your truck. Remove the oil filter with a wrench and clean the surface of the housing. Make sure you get off any stuck-on rubber. There must be a clean surface for the new oil filter gasket to attach to.

9. Prepare Your New Oil Filter

Put a small amount of oil in the filter and around the rubber gasket. This simple step ensures that the filter seals to the housing when you install it.

10. Spin On the New Filter

Put the new oil filter on, but don’t overtighten it. You should tighten the new filter until it makes contact and then add ¾ of a turn. Some people also look at this as hand tightened plus ¼ of a turn.

11. Fill the Oil

Take off the oil filter cap and use your funnel to fill up the engine. Make sure the funnel can handle the size of your oil container. Once you’ve poured the oil in, be sure to replace the cap.

12. Check Oil Levels

Run the engine for a few minutes and check the oil levels to be sure everything is good. You might need to add just a bit more once everything starts circulating.

If you like to learn visually, you might prefer this handy video of a 7.3 Powerstroke oil change.

7.3 Powerstroke Motor Oil FAQs

What is the 7.3 Powerstroke oil capacity?

The 2000 7.3 Powerstroke oil capacity is 15 quarts. This is the same no matter which year 7.3 Powerstroke you are driving.

How often should I change my oil in a 7.3 Powerstroke engine?

Ford recommends changing the 7.3 Powerstroke motor oil every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. However, if you are noticing any symptoms of dirty oil before this interval, you should do another oil change.

What is the 7.3 Powerstroke oil change cost?

A 7.3 Powerstroke oil change should take you about an hour to complete. If you spend about $80 on the oil, $20 on a high-quality filter and a couple of bucks on the gasket and washer, you are looking at about $100 to do it yourself. However, taking it to the dealership could cost you $200 or more for something you can do on your own.

How can I get better fuel mileage in a 7.3 Powerstroke?

Changing your oil can help you get better fuel economy, but there are some other tips if you want to improve the gas mileage. Look for ways to lower wind resistance while driving and keep the air filter cleaned. You should also check tire inflation often and keep any heavy cargo out of the bed when you don’t need it on board.

Conclusion

Now that you know what oil to use for your 7.3 Powerstroke diesel engine, it’s time to take care of that reliable motor. With regular care and proper maintenance, you can make your Ford truck last for many more years.

Here’s a summary of our top 7 picks: