Does Acura require full synthetic oil?
Yes. For most current Acura models, 0W-20 full-synthetic engine oil is the recommended standard. However, some older or special-edition engines may have different specifications, so always verify in your vehicle’s owner's manual or on the engine oil cap.
What Acura's guidance means in practice
Across the modern Acura lineup, the manufacturer emphasizes using the oil specification listed for your exact model and year. While 0W-20 full synthetic is the norm for many engines, there can be exceptions depending on the engine type, climate, and production year.
Key points about oil types across most current models:
- Most modern Acura engines specify 0W-20 full-synthetic engine oil as the standard.
- Some older or specific models may list alternate viscosities (such as 5W-20 or 5W-30) or allowances for certain climates, but these are not the prevailing requirement for new models.
- Conventional or synthetic-blend oils are typically not preferred for new engines unless explicitly allowed by the manual or service bulletin.
- Always use oil that meets the vehicle’s specification and viscosity printed on the oil cap and in the owner's manual.
In short, the default for most Acura models today is full synthetic oil with 0W-20 viscosity, but check your manual to confirm for your exact model and year.
How to verify for your specific vehicle
Because there can be model-year differences and climate-related adjustments, you should confirm the exact oil requirements for your car. Use the steps below to verify the required oil type and viscosity for your particular Acura.
Checklist before referencing the oil type in your car's maintenance plan:
- Check the oil specification in the owner's manual's maintenance section, which lists the required viscosity and oil type.
- Inspect the engine oil fill cap; many Acura engines print the recommended viscosity there (for example, 0W-20).
- Review the service interval guide or the maintenance minder in the vehicle's information display for oil type notes.
- If still unsure, contact an authorized Acura dealer or service technician, especially if you drive in extreme temperatures or have a modified engine.
Confirming these details will ensure you use the correct full synthetic oil for your Acura and help maintain performance and warranty coverage.
Model-year guidance
Recent Acura models (2020s and newer)
Most 2020s models, including the TLX, MDX, RDX, and ILX, specify 0W-20 full synthetic oil as the standard. Always consult the owner's manual for the exact specification for your particular engine variant.
Older generations (pre-2020)
Earlier Acura models may have used different viscosities (such as 5W-20 or 5W-30) depending on the engine and market. The shift toward 0W-20 full synthetic has become more common in newer generations, so verify for your specific year and engine.
Summary
For today’s Acura lineup, the prevailing guidance is to use 0W-20 full synthetic oil, with exact requirements varying by model and year. The safest approach is to consult your owner’s manual or speak with an authorized Acura technician to confirm the precise oil type and viscosity for your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and warranty compliance.
Do newer cars need full synthetic oil?
Yes, most new cars require synthetic oil, and some may even have their warranties voided if conventional oil is used. While not all new cars strictly need full synthetic, modern engines are designed to run on it, and it provides superior protection and performance, especially in high-performance vehicles, those with turbochargers, or those that operate in extreme temperatures or heavy-duty conditions.
Why new cars often need synthetic oil
- Manufacturer requirements: Many modern vehicles are built with engine tolerances that necessitate synthetic oil for optimal performance and longevity.
- Superior protection: Synthetic oil provides better lubrication and protection against wear and tear, particularly under extreme conditions like high temperatures or stop-and-go traffic.
- Improved efficiency: It can help improve fuel economy due to its high viscosity.
- Longer change intervals: Synthetic oils typically last longer than conventional oils, which can lead to less frequent oil changes.
- Warranty concerns: Using the wrong type of oil can void your manufacturer's warranty, so it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommendation.
How to know what type of oil your car needs
- Check the owner's manual: This is the most important step. Your owner's manual will specify the exact type of oil, its specifications, and the recommended oil change intervals.
- Look for the API/SAE grade: The recommended grade will be listed on the oil bottle. Ensure the grade on the bottle matches your car's recommendation.
- Consider your driving conditions: Even if your car can use a different type of oil, synthetic is often the better choice if you frequently tow heavy loads, drive in extreme temperatures, or engage in heavy stop-and-go traffic.
Is it okay to not use full synthetic oil?
Yes, but you'll be losing the lubrication performance across a wide range of temperatures that comes with synthetic oils, which means your engine will wear faster and not last as long. Remember that the engine was designed for synthetic lubricants, so you're experimenting to some degree.
Does Acura use full synthetic oil?
Acura recommends using Acura Genuine Motor Oil, sold and available at Acura dealers. If Acura Genuine Motor Oil is not used, conventional motor oil of a premium-grade or an ultimate full synthetic blend may be used and must contain the specified viscosity grade indicated in your Owner's Manual.
Which engine oil is best for an Acura MDX?
What is the recommended Acura MDX oil type? The suggested Acura MDX oil type can vary depending on your specific model. However, most Acura MDX models after the 2011 model year will use 0W-20 oil, while Acura MDX models before 2011 will use 5W-20 oil.
