That deep, throaty rumble from your 4.6L V8 is a sound of pure American muscle. Keeping that iconic engine running strong and smooth for years to come isn’t complicated, but it does require some fundamental knowledge. Arguably, the most critical piece of maintenance information you need is the correct 2007 Ford Mustang GT oil type and capacity. Using the right oil isn’t just a suggestion; it’s the lifeblood of your pony car’s engine, ensuring proper lubrication, cooling, and protection against wear.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer who loves getting your hands dirty or an owner who just wants to be informed when talking to a mechanic, knowing the specifics for your 2007 GT is empowering. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the exact oil capacity and recommended viscosity to the type of oil filter and a simple step-by-step process for a successful oil change. Let’s get your Mustang running at its absolute best.
The Official 2007 Ford Mustang GT Oil Type and Capacity
For the 2007 Ford Mustang GT and its 4.6L 3V V8 engine, the official specifications are quite clear. Following these guidelines is the best way to ensure your engine receives the protection it was designed for.
Oil Capacity: With a standard oil and filter change, your Mustang GT’s engine holds 6 quarts (approximately 5.7 liters). It’s always a good practice to start with slightly less—perhaps 5.5 quarts—and then check the dipstick, adding the remaining oil gradually until you reach the full mark. This prevents the risk of overfilling, which can be just as harmful as running low on oil.
Recommended Oil Type & Viscosity: Ford officially recommended using a premium motor oil that meets their specification of 5W-20. This viscosity is ideal for the engine’s tight tolerances, providing quick lubrication on cold starts (the “5W” part) while maintaining solid film strength at high operating temperatures (the “20” part). While conventional oil was acceptable, a synthetic blend or full synthetic oil is highly recommended for its superior resistance to breakdown and better performance under the high heat generated by a performance V8.
Why Choosing the Right Oil Matters
You might wonder why something as seemingly simple as oil viscosity is so important. Think of motor oil as your engine’s circulatory system. The 5W-20 rating is specifically chosen by Ford’s engineers to flow quickly to critical components like the camshafts and timing chain tensioners the moment you start the car. A thicker oil would flow more slowly, leading to a brief period of increased wear with every cold start. Furthermore, the 4.6L 3V engine can be known for issues with its variable camshaft timing (VCT) system if the wrong oil viscosity is used, potentially triggering check engine lights and rough running. Sticking with 5W-20 helps keep this sophisticated system operating correctly.
A Simple Guide to Changing Your Mustang’s Oil
Changing the oil in your 2007 GT is a very manageable project that can save you money and give you great satisfaction. Here’s a basic overview of the process.
Gather Your Supplies: You will need 6 quarts of 5W-20 motor oil (synthetic blend or full synthetic is a great choice), a quality oil filter (a Motorcraft FL-820S is the OEM filter and a fantastic option), a socket set with a 13mm socket for the drain plug, an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, a funnel, and gloves.
The Step-by-Step Process: First, safely jack up the front of your car and support it with jack stands—never work under a car supported only by a jack. Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan and place your drain pan underneath. Using your socket, carefully loosen and remove the plug, allowing the old oil to drain completely. Once drained, reinstall the drain plug with a new washer if needed, tightening it snugly but avoiding over-torquing. Next, use the oil filter wrench to remove the old filter, which is located on the front of the engine block. Before installing the new filter, lightly coat the rubber gasket on the top of the new filter with a bit of fresh oil. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket makes contact, then give it another three-quarter turn by hand—do not use the wrench for this final step. With the new filter and drain plug in place, you can lower the car and add the fresh oil through the oil filler cap on the top of the engine.
The Final and Most Important Step: After adding approximately 5.5 quarts, wait a minute for the oil to settle into the pan, then check the dipstick. Add the remaining oil in small increments until the level is at the “Full” mark on the dipstick. Start the engine and let it run for a minute, checking for any leaks around the filter or drain plug. Turn the engine off, wait another minute, and do one final dipstick check to confirm the level is perfect.
Selecting the Best Oil and Filter for Your GT
While any API-certified 5W-20 oil will work, stepping up to a high-quality synthetic blend or full synthetic oil provides enhanced protection. Brands like Motorcraft (Ford’s own brand), Mobil 1, Pennzoil Platinum, and Castrol Edge are all excellent choices that offer better detergent properties and thermal stability. For the filter, the Motorcraft FL-820S is a reliable and affordable OEM part. If you prefer an aftermarket option, brands like Wix, PurolatorBOSS, and K&N also make high-quality filters that will do a great job of trapping contaminants and protecting your engine.
Keeping Your Mustang’s Heart Healthy
Adhering to a regular oil change interval is just as crucial as using the correct fluids. For a 2007 Mustang GT, a change every 5,000 miles or 6 months is a safe and conservative schedule, especially if you drive the car hard or take it on short trips frequently. While some modern oils and filters can last longer, 5,000-mile intervals are a sweet spot for keeping a high-performance engine clean and healthy for the long haul. Always remember to reset your oil change reminder light after each service; this usually involves turning the ignition to the “on” position without starting the engine and then fully pressing the gas and brake pedals simultaneously for about 10 seconds.
In the end, taking care of your 2007 Mustang GT’s engine is a straightforward but vital task. By using 6 quarts of the recommended 5W-20 oil, a quality filter, and sticking to a consistent maintenance schedule, you are providing the foundation for thousands of more miles of reliable, powerful driving. That iconic V8 rumble is a sound worth preserving.