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Does the Acura TLX require synthetic oil?

Yes, the Acura TLX requires the use of synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is a high-performance lubricant that is engineered to provide superior protection and performance compared to conventional mineral-based oils.


What is Synthetic Oil?


Synthetic oil is a lubricant that is manufactured through a chemical process, rather than being refined from crude oil like conventional motor oil. Synthetic oils are designed to have a more consistent molecular structure, which provides several benefits over conventional oils, including:



  • Improved resistance to thermal breakdown and oxidation

  • Better viscosity stability across a wide temperature range

  • Enhanced lubrication and reduced friction

  • Longer service life and extended oil change intervals


These properties make synthetic oils an ideal choice for high-performance engines like the one found in the Acura TLX.


Why Does the Acura TLX Require Synthetic Oil?


The Acura TLX is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter or 3.5-liter V6 engine, both of which are designed to operate at high temperatures and under high loads. Synthetic oil is required to ensure proper lubrication and protection for these advanced engines, which can generate significant heat and stress.


Using a lower-quality conventional oil in the Acura TLX could lead to increased wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and potentially even engine damage over time. Acura specifically recommends the use of 0W-20 or 5W-20 synthetic oil to maintain the TLX's performance and reliability.


Changing the Oil in an Acura TLX


When it's time to change the oil in an Acura TLX, it's important to use the recommended synthetic oil and follow the manufacturer's recommended service intervals. Acura advises changing the oil and filter every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.


Using the correct synthetic oil and following the proper maintenance schedule will help ensure the Acura TLX's engine continues to perform at its best for years to come.

What kind of oil does a Acura TLX take?


Our experts recommend you use a fully synthetic motor oil blend at a grade of 0W-20 when getting an oil change for your Acura TLX.



What happens if you put regular oil and not synthetic?


Ordinary oil can literally burn to form sludge which will block the oil path and eventually destroy an engine. If someone has used ordinary oil when the unsuspecting owner uses the correct oil it can loosen the sludge and block oil ways. Byebye engine!



Do I actually need synthetic oil?


Any motor oil will do the job, but some types are better than others under certain conditions. “The big difference is that synthetic oil tends to last longer than conventional oil between changes—up to 10,000 miles or more,” Ibbotson says.



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.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.