2008 Ranger Extended (12k) Service Intervals?

[nobb]

Im going through my parents' service records for our 2008 Ford Ranger to make a log of what's been done by the dealer. One thing that Ive noticed is that Ford recommends a service interval of 12,000km between oil changes under normal circumstances which seems a bit long. From the records, it appears that the dealer has been telling them to come in every 5000km which, IMO I think is too often. When I called them, their reasoning was that since we live in Alberta, our harsher climate warrants a more "aggressive" service interval. I do trust Ford's numbers over the dealers...but just wondering if there is any actual science in this.

We also have a 2006 Ford Freestar and comparing the Ford recommended service intervals to what has actually been done...it seems once again that the dealer has been once again more "aggressive" on the servicing. eg, wheel alignment every 20,000km? wtf?

Can you guys provide more details on how the 2008 Ranger accomplishes an extended service interval as compared to the previous years? I'd like to start doing my own oil changes for them from now on rather than taking it to the stealership. Is there a special OEM Ford oil filter and oil that should be used to maintain this extended service manual or can standard off the shelf parts be sufficient?

 

[hopster]

you can get the same motorcraft filters used by every ford dealer at most parts stores. the extended service intervals were instituted due to better oil and filter technology according to my instrucyor at the last training i went to. i reccomend 5000 miles on new vehicles but stick with 3000 miles on the older vehicles.

 

[LearjetMinako]

There isn't really anything special that you have to use. The 5,000 KM is for heavy use, like if you tow a boat, hual a lot, live in a dusty enviroment, or exteme hot or cold climates (below 0*C or above 30*C most of the time), then you should change your oil most often. Most of the time, you can get away with changing your oil every 10,000 KM.

For my Ranger, I don't do much besides drive it work and the occusional hualing. But I do live in a hot climate where temps can hit 100*F (38*C) and it can become dusty of some days. So I change my oil every 5,000 miles, but I use synthetic oils, synthetic glass oil filter, and oiled paper air filter. And I drive about 5,000 miles a year in the Ranger. The other miles I put on my motorcycle.