How to Change Your Classic Mustang's Oil
Last Updated August 5, 2024 | Kevin BrentRegularly changing your classic Mustang's oil is vital to the health and longevity of your engine. Clean Mustang oil not only absorbs contaminants, but it also lubricates the engine and helps keep it operating at peak efficiency. Based on Ford's recommendations, you should change your 1964.5-1973 Mustang's oil every 3-4 months, or 3,000-5,000 miles, to keep your engine running its best.
Below, you'll find everything you need, including step-by-step instructions, to change your 1964.5-1973 Mustang's oil.
What Oil to Use In Your Classic Mustang
The oil you use in your Mustang is just as important as how often you change it. Using the wrong type of oil can lead to poor performance and other issues. For 1964.5-1973 Mustang models, Ford recommends 10W-30 oil.
| Classic Mustang Years | Oil Type |
|---|---|
| 1965-1973 | 10W-30 |
1965-1973 Mustang 289 Oil Capacity
The 289 Windsor V8 was commonly found in Mustangs from 1965-1973, so there's a good chance you have one in yours. The oil capacity of the 1965-1973 Windsor 289 engine is 5 quarts or around 4.8 liters. Keep that number in mind before doing your next oil change so you know how much to add after draining the old oil.
Classic Mustang Oil Change Instructions
Required Tools and Supplies:
- New Oil Filter
- 5 Quarts of Fresh Oil
- Oil Pan
- Oil Filter Plier
- Funnel
$50.43 MSRP $108.94
Step 1: Lift Your Classic Mustang
First, you'll need to raise your Mustang off the ground high enough to access the drain plug and oil filter. A lift makes this a breeze, but you can also use a jack and jack stands or ramps.
Related: Not sure where the jack points are on your first-gen Mustang? Check out our guide to learn how to jack up a classic Mustang.
Step 2: Place Drain Pan Below Drain Plug
Once you find the plug, put down an oil pan or some other container to catch the oil and some newspaper or cardboard to soak up any splashes or drips. Make sure the drain pan can hold all the oil from your Mustang.
Step 3: Remove Drain Bolt
To drain the old oil, remove the drain plug pictured below. Use a wrench or ratchet to loosen the bolt.
Step 4: Drain Oil
Once the plug is removed, the oil should start draining in a smooth stream. Let the oil drain until the stream lessens to a slow drip. Once the oil drip has stopped, reinstall the drain plug.
Step 5: Remove Old Oil Filter
The oil filter on your classic Mustang can be found on the driver's side of the engine. Make sure to keep your oil pan from the previous step handy, as the oil from the old filter may spill out when removed. You can remove the oil filter by hand, but you can use a wrench if the seal is too tight.
Pro Tip: Keep the old filter facing up as you remove it from the body. This will keep excess oil from leaking. Dump the filter in the oil pan once you're done.
Step 6: Lubricate New Filter
Dab some oil from the old filter onto the new one to lubricate it. This'll make it easier to install.
Step 7: Install New Filter
Screw the new filter in, tightening it by hand. There's no need for a wrench. Clean up the area around the new filter with a rag to get rid of any excess oil.
Step 8: Add New Oil
With your oil drained and your new filter in place, it's time to add fresh oil to your Mustang. For 1965-1973 Mustang models, Ford recommends using 10W-30 oil.
After you've selected your oil, locate the oil cap under the hood of your Mustang (pictured below) and unscrew the cap.
Use a funnel to fill the tank with fresh oil.
Step 9: Check New Oil Level
To make sure your oil has been topped off correctly, locate the oil dipstick under the hood of your Mustang, remove it, and clean it off.
Reinsert the dipstick and remove it again for an accurate reading. Check to make sure the oil level is between the x's above 'add' and below 'max'.
Step 10: Dispose of Used Oil
Take your used motor oil to a local auto parts store or garage that offers recycling, or donate it somewhere that uses a waste oil heater.
Keep Your Classic Mustang in Good Working Order
Before your next Ford Mustang oil change, be sure to check out upgrades for your Mustang oil system. Check out our Mustang oil recommendations article to learn about oil viscosity and the difference between conventional and synthetic oil. If you want deals on classic Mustang parts and more great content like this be sure to sign up for our newsletter.
Check out our other three Ford Mustang oil change guides.
