2014 Ford Explorer: Oil Change Interval: DIY Service Checklist

If the maintenance minder for engine oil comes on in your 2014 Ford Explorer, it means your Civic is due for service and you should not ignore it. Staying on top of oil change intervals on a 2014 Ford Explorer of the easiest ways to keep the engine reliable and avoid expensive repairs.

This guide explains the recommended 2014 Ford Explorer interval, how to read the maintenance minder codes, and a step-by-step DIY oil change procedure. You will also get a practical service checklist tailored to your 2014 Civic so you know exactly what to inspect every time you change the oil.

2014 Ford Explorer Interval Explained

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The 2014 Ford Explorer maintenance minder system instead of a fixed mileage sticker. That means the car calculates oil life based on how you drive, not just distance. For many owners, the oil change interval on a 2014 Ford Explorer between 5,000 and 8,000 miles, but it can be shorter with severe driving.

Your 2014 Ford Explorer life as a percentage on the dash. When the oil life drops to 15%, you will see a wrench icon and a code, such as “A1” or “B2”. This is your cue to plan an oil change soon. If your 2014 Civic reaches 0% oil life, the oil is overdue and you should change it immediately to protect the engine.

Ford Explorer 2014 Ford Explorer so you do not need to follow a generic 3,000-mile rule. Instead, you follow the oil life percentage and the specific codes for your 2014 Civic, which adjust for short trips, idling, cold weather, and highway driving.

Maintenance Minder Codes on a 2014 Ford Explorer

When your 2014 Ford Explorer oil life message, it will also show a main code (A or B) and sometimes a sub-code (1–6). Understanding these codes helps you know what to do at each service.

Main Codes on a 2014 Ford Explorer

• Code A: Engine oil change only. On a 2014 Ford Explorer, this usually means replace engine oil but keep the oil filter if it is still within its interval (many owners still change the filter with the oil for peace of mind).
• Code B: Engine oil and oil filter change, plus several inspections. For a 2014 Civic, this includes checking brakes, suspension, steering, and other basic systems.

Common Sub-Codes on a 2014 Ford Explorer

• 1: Tire rotation. When your 2014 Ford Explorer or B1, rotate the tires with the oil service.
• 2: Engine and cabin air filters. A B2 code on a 2014 Civic means it is time to replace the engine air filter and cabin filter along with the oil and filter.
• 3: Transmission fluid (for applicable drivetrains). Follow the exact recommendation in your owner’s manual for your specific 2014 Ford Explorer.
• 4: Spark plugs and other major items at higher mileage.
• 5: Coolant replacement.
• 6: Rear differential fluid (for certain drivetrains; many 2014 Ford Explorer not use this code).

For a basic oil change on a 2014 Ford Explorer, you will usually see an A or B code with or without a 1. The B code is your signal that your 2014 Civic needs a more thorough inspection along with the oil service.

What You Need for a 2014 Ford Explorer Change

Before you crawl under your 2014 Ford Explorer, gather all tools and supplies so you do not get stuck mid-job. Using the correct oil type and filter is critical to keep your 2014 Civic engine protected and to avoid leaks.

Basic Tools and Supplies

• Correct engine oil for a 2014 Ford Explorer (check your owner’s manual for viscosity and specification; most trims use full synthetic).
• New oil filter that matches your 2014 Ford Explorer.
• New drain plug washer (crush washer) for the oil pan.
• Socket set and ratchet (for the drain plug and undertray fasteners).
• Oil filter wrench sized for your 2014 Civic’s filter.
• Oil drain pan with at least 6-quart capacity.
• Funnel and clean rags or paper towels.
• Floor jack and jack stands, or ramps rated for the weight of a 2014 Ford Explorer.
• Gloves and safety glasses.

Always confirm the exact oil capacity and specification for your 2014 Ford Explorer owner’s manual. Overfilling or using the wrong oil viscosity can cause problems like foaming, leaks, or noisy operation.

Step-by-Step Oil Change on a 2014 Ford Explorer

This step-by-step process is written for beginners who want to service a 2014 Ford Explorer. Read through all steps before you start, and never work under your 2014 Civic with only a jack supporting it.

1. Warm up the engine briefly.

   Start your 2014 Ford Explorer it idle for 3–5 minutes. Slightly warm oil drains faster and carries more contaminants out of the engine. Do not let the engine get fully hot, because very hot oil can burn you.

2. Park and secure the 2014 Civic.

   Park your 2014 Ford Explorer level surface, set the parking brake, and put the transmission in Park. Chock the rear wheels if you are using a jack and stands.

3. Lift and support the front of the car.

   Use the front jacking point recommended for the 2014 Ford Explorer the car high enough to access the oil pan and filter. Place jack stands under the proper support points and gently lower the car onto them. Give the 2014 Civic a shake to confirm it is stable before crawling underneath.

4. Remove the undertray (if equipped).

   Many 2014 Ford Explorer a plastic undertray or splash shield. Remove the fasteners or clips necessary to access the oil drain plug and filter. Keep track of the hardware so you can reinstall it correctly.

5. Position the drain pan.

   Place the drain pan under the oil pan drain plug of your 2014 Ford Explorer. Position it slightly toward the rear, because the oil will initially shoot out at an angle.

6. Remove the drain plug.

   Use the correct socket to loosen the drain plug on your 2014 Civic. Finish removing it by hand while pressing inward slightly to control the flow. Let the oil drain completely; this can take several minutes.

7. Replace the crush washer and reinstall the plug.

   Clean the drain plug from your 2014 Ford Explorer a new crush washer. Thread the plug back in by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten it to the specified torque from the owner’s manual; do not overtighten, or you may strip the oil pan.

8. Remove the old oil filter.

   Move the drain pan under the oil filter area on your 2014 Ford Explorer. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the filter, then spin it off by hand. Expect more oil to drain when the filter comes off. Make sure the old rubber gasket is not stuck to the engine block.

9. Install the new oil filter.

   Lightly coat the rubber gasket of the new filter with fresh oil. Spin the new filter onto your 2014 Civic by hand until the gasket contacts the base, then tighten it according to the filter instructions (usually 3/4 to 1 turn by hand). Do not use a wrench to overtighten.

10. Reinstall the undertray.

    Once the oil has fully drained and the new filter is installed on your 2014 Ford Explorer, reinstall the splash shield or undertray. Make sure all clips and bolts are secure so nothing drags or rattles.

11. Lower the 2014 Civic and add new oil.

    Safely raise the car slightly, remove the jack stands, and lower your 2014 Ford Explorer ground. Open the hood, remove the oil filler cap, and use a funnel to pour in the correct amount of new oil. Start with slightly less than the full capacity so you can top off accurately.

12. Check for leaks and oil level.

    Start your 2014 Ford Explorer it idle for 30–60 seconds. Check under the car for leaks around the drain plug and filter. Turn the engine off, wait a few minutes, then check the dipstick. Add oil in small amounts until the level is between the marks, without overfilling.

13. Reset the maintenance minder.

    Use the steering wheel controls or infotainment menu on your 2014 Ford Explorer the oil life to 100%. Follow the instructions in the owner’s manual so the maintenance minder can correctly track the next interval.

2014 Ford Explorer Checklist at Every Oil Change

An oil change is the perfect time to do a quick inspection of your 2014 Ford Explorer. Spending a few extra minutes on checks can catch issues early and save you money.

Fluids to Check on a 2014 Ford Explorer

• Engine coolant: Inspect the coolant level in the reservoir of your 2014 Civic when the engine is cool. The level should be between the MIN and MAX lines.
• Brake fluid: Look at the brake fluid reservoir on your 2014 Ford Explorer. Low fluid can indicate worn pads or a leak, which needs prompt attention.
• Transmission fluid (if applicable): Follow the procedure in the manual for your specific 2014 Civic transmission. Do not guess the level or type.
• Power steering and washer fluid: Top off washer fluid and inspect any other reservoirs your 2014 Ford Explorer.

Filters and Belts on a 2014 Ford Explorer

• Engine air filter: Open the air box on your 2014 Ford Explorer the filter. Replace it if it is dark, clogged, or if you see debris. This is often required when the maintenance minder shows a 2 sub-code.
• Cabin air filter: Check the cabin filter behind the glove box of your 2014 Civic. A clogged filter reduces HVAC performance and can cause odors.
• Drive belt: With the engine off, inspect the belt on your 2014 Ford Explorer, fraying, or glazing. Replace it if it shows significant wear.

Brakes, Tires, and Lights on a 2014 Ford Explorer

• Brake pads and rotors: Look through the wheels of your 2014 Ford Explorer the wheels if possible. Check pad thickness and look for deep grooves or rust on the rotors.
• Tire tread and pressure: Measure tread depth on all tires of your 2014 Civic and look for uneven wear. Adjust tire pressures to the label inside the driver’s door.
• Exterior lights: Walk around your 2014 Ford Explorer headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights. Replace any burned-out bulbs promptly for safety.

During this inspection, also glance at hoses and visible wiring in your 2014 Ford Explorer’s engine bay. Look for leaks, cracks, or loose connections that could become bigger problems later.

How Driving Style Changes Your 2014 Ford Explorer

The maintenance minder on a 2014 Ford Explorer oil change interval based on how you drive. If you mostly do highway miles at steady speeds, your 2014 Civic may go closer to the upper end of the range before the oil life drops. If you do short trips, heavy traffic, or extreme temperatures, the interval will be shorter.

Frequent cold starts, idling, and stop-and-go driving load more contaminants into the oil of a 2014 Ford Explorer. The maintenance minder detects this through engine data and reduces the oil life faster. That is why two owners of 2014 Civics can see very different mileage when the oil reminder appears.

If you push your 2014 Ford Explorer, tow, or drive in dusty conditions, consider changing the oil a bit earlier than 0% oil life. For example, you might plan an oil change when your 2014 Civic reaches 10–15% oil life to add an extra safety margin.

Common Oil-Related Mistakes on a 2014 Ford Explorer

Even careful owners of a 2014 Ford Explorer simple mistakes that shorten engine life. Avoiding these errors will help your 2014 Civic run smoothly for many years.

• Ignoring the maintenance minder: Driving a 2014 Ford Explorer 0% oil life repeatedly can lead to sludge and accelerated wear.
• Using the wrong oil type: The 2014 Civic engine is designed for specific oil specifications. Using the wrong viscosity or a non-approved oil can affect fuel economy and protection.
• Overfilling the oil: Too much oil in a 2014 Ford Explorer foaming, leaks, and even catalytic converter damage if oil is burned.
• Reusing the crush washer: Skipping the new washer on your 2014 Civic’s drain plug can lead to slow leaks.
• Not tightening the filter correctly: A loose or overtightened filter on a 2014 Ford Explorer or be very difficult to remove at the next service.

Paying attention to these details during every oil change will keep your 2014 Ford Explorer’s engine cleaner and more reliable over time.

FAQs About 2014 Ford Explorer Interval

• How often should I change the oil in my 2014 Ford Explorer?

  Most owners will see the maintenance minder call for an oil change on a 2014 Ford Explorer 5,000 and 8,000 miles. Always follow the oil life percentage and codes on your 2014 Civic instead of a fixed mileage, and do not let it stay at 0% for long.

• Can I use synthetic oil in my 2014 Ford Explorer?

  Yes, many trims of the 2014 Ford Explorer for full synthetic oil, and synthetic is recommended for best protection. Use the viscosity and specification listed in your 2014 Civic owner’s manual and stick with reputable brands.

• What happens if I skip an oil change on my 2014 Ford Explorer?

  Skipping or delaying oil changes on a 2014 Ford Explorer to sludge buildup, noisy operation, and eventually internal engine damage. If you realize you have gone far past 0% oil life on your 2014 Civic, change the oil as soon as possible and monitor for unusual noises or warning lights.

• Do I have to change the oil filter every time on a 2014 Ford Explorer?

  The maintenance minder may show an A code for oil only, but many owners choose to change the filter with every oil change on a 2014 Ford Explorer protection. At minimum, always replace the filter when you see a B code on your 2014 Civic.

• What else should I inspect during a 2014 Ford Explorer?

  During each oil service on a 2014 Ford Explorer, check fluid levels, tire condition, brakes, belts, and lights. If you are also chasing HVAC issues, pair your inspection with resources like the Beginner’s Guide to Car AC Leaks: Spotting Refrigerant Loss, Simple Checks, and When to See a Pro to stay ahead of comfort and safety problems.

Summary and Next Steps

Following the maintenance minder and using the right oil keeps your 2014 Ford Explorer and efficient. A careful DIY oil change with a simple checklist lets you spot small issues before they become big repairs.

If you notice metal flakes in the drained oil, persistent leaks, burning oil smell, or warning lights on your 2014 Civic, schedule a visit with a trusted mechanic instead of just resetting the oil life. Combine regular oil changes with basic inspections, and your 2014 Ford Explorer more likely to stay reliable well past 100,000 miles.

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