How many quarts of oil does a 2012 Acura RDX take?
The 2012 Acura RDX, powered by a 3.5-liter V6, typically takes about 5 quarts of engine oil with a new filter installed. In practice, you may end up adding roughly 4.7–5.0 quarts depending on the filter and whether you top off to the full mark on the dipstick.
The question reflects a common maintenance concern for owners: ensuring the engine has the correct oil volume after a change. The official specification for the 2012 RDX places the oil capacity with a filter at 5.0 quarts (about 4.7 liters). Always verify the final level with the dipstick after running the engine and letting it settle before a final top-off.
Official oil capacity for the 2012 RDX
According to Acura service specifications, the engine oil capacity with a new filter is 5.0 quarts (approximately 4.7 liters). This figure is the standard reference for a typical oil change on the 3.5-liter V6 in the 2012 RDX.
Notes on practical use and topping off
Keep in mind that the exact amount needed can vary slightly based on oil type, filter brand, and whether the engine is hot or cold when you check. After changing the oil and running the engine briefly, recheck the level with the dipstick and add small amounts as needed to reach the full mark.
Practical tips for performing an oil change
Use the oil grade recommended by Acura for the 3.5-liter V6 (often 0W-20 or 5W-20, depending on climate and manual), install a matching filter, and replace any worn drain plug gasket if applicable. After the change, allow the engine to rest and recheck the level to confirm the correct quantity.
Summary
For a standard oil change on the 2012 Acura RDX, plan on about 5 quarts of engine oil with a filter installed. Depending on the filter brand, oil type, and whether you top off, you may use slightly less. Always verify the final level with the dipstick after completion.
How much oil does a 2012 Acura RDX take?
2012 Acura RDX Specifications
| POWERTRAIN | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Turbocharged 2.3-liter inline 4-cylinder |
| Fuel tank | 18 gallons (68.0 liters) |
| Engine Oil | Change with oil filter - 4.97 quarts (4.7 liters) |
| Total volume - 6.13 quarts (5.8 liters) |
How many quarts of oil does a 3.8 L V6 take?
A 3.8L V6 engine typically takes between 4.5 and 6 quarts of oil, depending on the specific vehicle and year. For example, a 1994-2004 Ford Mustang with a 3.8L V6 needs about 5 quarts, while a 2007-2011 Jeep Wrangler with a 3.8L V6 takes about 6 quarts. Always check your vehicle's owner's manual or consult a reliable source, like an oil capacity chart, to confirm the exact amount for your specific model, and always check the oil level with the dipstick after refilling.
Here are some examples of oil capacities for different vehicles with a 3.8L V6 engine:
- Ford Mustang (1994-2004): ~5 quarts
- Jeep Wrangler (2007-2011): ~6 quarts
- Pontiac Grand Prix (2008, 3800 V6): ~4.5 quarts
- Buick LeSabre (2000): ~7.4 quarts
How many quarts of oil for Acura RDX?
The oil capacity for a recent Acura RDX (model years 2020-2025) is approximately 5.1 quarts of SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil when replacing the filter. The 2013-2018 models with a 3.5L V6 engine use about 4.5 to 5 quarts, while the 2007 model uses 4.97 quarts. Always refer to your owner's manual for the specific amount for your model year and check the dipstick after refilling.
Acura RDX oil capacity by model year
- 2020-2025: 5.1 quarts with filter (SAE 0W-20 synthetic)
- 2013-2018 (3.5L V6): 4.5 to 5 quarts
- 2007: 4.97 quarts with filter
Important considerations
- Always consult your owner's manual for the exact oil type and capacity for your specific model year.
- After adding the recommended amount, start the engine to circulate the oil, then let it sit for a few minutes before checking the dipstick to ensure the level is correct.
- The 5.1-quart figure is for a full refill including the oil filter.
How many quarts of oil does a 3.6 L V6 take?
A 3.6L V6 engine typically takes between 5 and 6 quarts of oil, but the exact amount varies by vehicle model, so you must check your owner's manual or the oil fill cap for the precise capacity. For example, some models like a 2013 Jeep JK require 6 quarts, while newer models like a 2020 Jeep Wrangler or 2018+ Jeep Wrangler JL may only take 5 quarts.
Here are some general guidelines:
- Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle.
- Look at the oil fill cap: It may have the required viscosity and capacity printed on it.
- Consider the model year: Newer vehicles, especially certain Jeep models, have different oil capacities than older ones.
- Change the oil filter: Always include an oil filter change, as this is part of the full oil capacity.
- After refilling, check the level: After you've filled the engine with oil, use the dipstick to check the oil level and add more if needed to reach the "full" line.
