Lincoln produced the 2001 Navigator with a 5.4-liter, eight-cylinder engine. The manufacturer engineered the engine to go extended periods between oil changes with the use of synthetic SAE 0w30 motor oil. However, standard factory recommendations for maintenance include oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles using SAE 5w20 motor oil. Changing the oil yourself takes about 15 minutes, and only requires you to remove the oil filter and drain plug, both of which are located at the bottom of your engine near the firewall.
Drive the vehicle onto the ramps and engage the emergency brake.
Slide the oil bucket and tools beneath the vehicle, and position the bucket centered under the drain plug.
Loosen the oil drain plug with a socket wrench and remove with your hands. Allow oil to drain. Loosen the filter with a filter wrench, and remove. Be prepared to capture any oil that may spill out when you remove the filter.
Apply a small amount of clean oil to the gasket of the new oil filter, a WIX 51372 or other manufacturer's equivalent. Make sure the old gasket came off of the engine with the old oil filter. Install the new oil filter. Hand-tighten the filter to snug and then a quarter-turn further. Once the oil has finished draining, install the drain plug and tighten to 15 foot-pounds of torque.
Raise the hood and remove the oil fill cap. Fill the engine with 6.1 quarts of SAE 5w20. Replace the cap and start the vehicle. Monitor the drain plug and filter for leaks. Leaks will be caused by a loose filter or plug. Tighten if any leaks are identified.
Turn off the vehicle, and check the oil dipstick. The oil should be flush with the full line. Add oil as necessary.
