Does Acura TL require synthetic oil?
In most cases, the Acura TL does not strictly require synthetic oil, but synthetic is generally recommended for optimal protection and performance. You can use conventional 5W-20 oil if needed, provided it meets the manufacturer’s specifications for viscosity and service rating.
Oil requirements for the TL by year and engine
The TL has used a few different J-series V6 engines over its run, but most generations align on viscosity and API standards. Here are the key points owners should know about oil type and compatibility.
Key guidance to keep in mind before choosing your oil:
- Viscosity: Most TL models specify 5W-20 for normal operation. Some early or market-specific variants may list 5W-30; always confirm with your exact year and engine in the owner’s manual.
- Oil type: API service category should be at or above the latest specification listed for your vehicle (for example SN or newer). ILSAC ratings (GF-5, GF-6, etc.) apply as appropriate to your model year.
- Oil form: Synthetic oil, or a synthetic blend, is commonly recommended or preferred for modern TL engines to maximize protection and keep sludge and deposit levels in check. Conventional 5W-20 is not forbidden, but you may see benefits from synthetic, especially in extreme temperatures or demanding driving.
- Capacity: Oil capacity varies slightly by year and engine, but most TL engines take around 5 quarts with a filter. Always verify the exact capacity in your manual or on the under-hood sticker.
Conclusion: For most Acura TL models, 5W-20 is the standard viscosity, and while synthetic oil is strongly recommended for protection and reliability, using conventional 5W-20 is acceptable if it meets the required specifications and you adhere to appropriate drain intervals.
Drain intervals and practical considerations
Oil life is not just about the oil type, but also about driving conditions. Here is a practical overview to help plan maintenance.
Guidance on how often to change the oil depending on oil type and driving conditions:
- Conventional 5W-20: approximately every 3,000–5,000 miles (about 3–6 months), depending on climate and driving patterns.
- Synthetic 5W-20 or 0W-20: roughly every 7,500–10,000 miles or up to 12 months under normal conditions.
- Severe driving conditions (short trips, heavy traffic, towing, hot/c dusty environments): more frequent changes may be necessary, regardless of oil type.
Bottom line: Always follow the maintenance minder or the exact interval specified in your owner’s manual, and consider synthetic oil if you can afford it or if you drive under conditions that accelerate oil degradation.
What to check before you decide
When planning an oil choice for your TL, these steps help ensure you don’t miss any critical detail:
Key steps to follow before performing an oil change or switching oil types:
- Consult the owner’s manual for the exact viscosity and service ratings required for your model year.
- Check whether your vehicle has a maintenance minder that suggests specific oil change intervals.
- Assess your climate and driving style; consider synthetic oil if you frequently drive in extreme temperatures or undertake heavy-use driving.
- Use a high-quality oil that meets API and ILSAC specifications and, if possible, a compatible Honda/Acura OEM filter.
Conclusion: Your TL’s exact oil requirements come down to year-specific specifications. When in doubt, default to the manual and opt for synthetic if you want maximum protection and longer intervals, especially under demanding conditions.
Summary
The Acura TL does not strictly require synthetic oil, but synthetic oil is commonly recommended to optimize protection, efficiency, and longevity. Most TL engines call for 5W-20 oil, and you can use conventional 5W-20 if it meets the proper API rating and you observe appropriate drain intervals. Always verify your exact year’s specifications in the owner’s manual or with a Mercedes-certified Acura technician to ensure you meet the model’s specific requirements. Following the manufacturer’s guidance will help maintain engine reliability across the TL’s lifespan.
What kind of oil does a 2014 Acura TL take?
The 2014 Acura TL uses 5W-20 or 0W-20 full synthetic oil and requires 4.5 quarts with a filter change. It's important to check your owner's manual or consult a dealer for the precise specifications, especially considering the two different engine options (3.5L and 3.7L) that may exist in this model year.
Oil type and viscosity
- 5W-20 or 0W-20: Both are recommended, but 0W-20 may be preferred for better cold-weather starting and fuel economy.
- Full Synthetic: A full synthetic oil is recommended for optimal engine protection and performance.
Oil capacity
- 4.5 quarts: This is the standard capacity when replacing the oil filter. Always check the level with the dipstick after refilling to ensure it's within the correct range.
Important considerations
- Engine size: The 2014 TL came with two engine options, the 3.5L and 3.7L. While they both use similar oil, it is always best to confirm the exact specifications for your specific engine.
- Owner's manual: It is crucial to consult your owner's manual for the most accurate recommendations, especially since oil change intervals and specifications can vary slightly.
- Oil filter: Always replace the oil filter when changing the oil.
- Drain plug: Use a new crush washer on the drain plug and tighten it to the correct torque specification, which is approximately 29 ft-lbs.
Is it okay to use regular oil instead of synthetic?
Yes, you can use conventional oil instead of synthetic, as modern oils are compatible and switching between them will not harm your engine. However, it's important to ensure the new conventional oil has the correct viscosity and API/ILSAC ratings for your vehicle, and switching to conventional might mean you need to change the oil more frequently.
Why it's safe to switch
- Compatibility: Modern synthetic and conventional oils are designed to be compatible and can be mixed without needing an engine flush, even if you've used only synthetic before.
- No damage: Switching will not damage your engine. Some old myths suggested this was a risk, but it's no longer an issue with today's formulations.
What to consider
- Vehicle requirements: Check your owner's manual to confirm the recommended viscosity (e.g., 5W-30) and performance standards (API/ILSAC). Some high-performance or turbocharged engines may specifically require synthetic oil, so it's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendation.
- Maintenance frequency: Conventional oil breaks down faster than synthetic, especially in extreme temperatures, and may require more frequent oil changes.
- Engine condition: If you've used synthetic oil for a long time, especially in an older engine, switching to conventional might cause a temporary, minor leak. This can happen because synthetic oil is thinner and has additives that clean deposits, which can sometimes dislodge grime from old seals. This usually resolves itself over time.
Does the Acura TL need synthetic oil?
All the Acura TL oil type recommendations are synthetic oil, but is it safe to switch it out with conventional oil or a blend? The answer is, you can, but it may not be the best choice for your aging Acura TL.
Does Acura require 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.
