The Ford Escape comes with either a 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter Duratec V-6. Ford recommends checking the oil level in either engine once or twice per month, and then adding oil to correct the engine oil level, if necessary. A small amount of oil usually burns off as the engine runs. In most cases, the oil level will not be too high; however, if it is, Ford does not recommend driving the Escape. Instead, the company recommends contacting a professional and arranging for the vehicle to be towed in.
Crank the Escape's engine and let it run for about 10 minutes, unless it has recently been running. The engine should be warm when you are checking the oil. Turn the engine off and open the hood. Round up your supplies.
Locate the yellow dipstick handle in the front-center part of the engine compartment. Pull the dipstick out completely and wipe the indicator well with the towel. Insert it again and then remove it.
Inspect the oil level on the indicator. The level should be about halfway between the "Min" and "Max" mark. If the oil level is at or below the "Min" level, you'll need to add oil to correct it. If it is above the "Max" mark, shut the engine off immediately and contact a service professional.
Unscrew the "Engine Oil" cap above the dipstick handle. Insert the small end of the funnel into the engine oil port.
Pour about one-quarter of a quart of oil through the funnel. Wait a couple of minutes, and then check the oil again. If it is still a bit low, add another quarter of a quart. Repeat this until the oil level is approximately halfway between "Min" and "Max."
