What engine oil to use for a 1996 Mercury Mystique?

The best engine oil for a 1996 Mercury Mystique depends on the engine it has. The Mystique came with a few different engines. You must check your owner's manual to determine the exact engine you have (it will likely be a 2.0L, 2.3L, or 2.5L).

Once you know the engine size, look for the recommended oil viscosity and specifications in the owner's manual. It will list the recommended weight (like 5W-30 or 10W-40) and may specify API certifications (like SJ, SL, SM, etc.). Newer certifications are generally better, but staying within the manufacturer's recommendations is crucial.

In general, for a car that old, a 10W-30 or 5W-30 oil meeting at least the SL API certification is a good starting point. However, always check your owner's manual for the exact specifications recommended by Ford/Mercury. Using the wrong oil can damage your engine.

After you find the recommended oil type and weight in your owner's manual, you can then choose a brand name oil that meets those specifications. Many brands offer high-quality oils at various price points.