How much oil does a 3.5 VTEC hold?
The typical capacity for a 3.5L V6 i-VTEC engine is about 5 quarts (roughly 4.7 liters) of engine oil when you include a new oil filter. Exact numbers can vary by model and year, so always verify with your owner's manual or dealer data.
Understanding the figure and its implications
The 3.5-liter VTEC engines from Honda and Acura, commonly referred to as the 3.5 VTEC family, power many SUVs, sedans, and crossovers. Oil capacity figures represent the total amount of oil the engine can hold, typically noted as “with filter” in service specs. Replacing the oil filter adds about a half-quart of oil to the total, which is why some manuals show a 4.5-quart figure when the filter isn’t being changed. Variations exist across different model years and configurations, so consult the precise spec for your vehicle.
Typical oil capacity by common 3.5L V6 i-VTEC applications
Below are the figures most often cited in service data for mainstream 3.5L V6 i-VTEC engines. They assume a standard oil change with a new filter.
- 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter — for the majority of 3.5L V6 i-VTEC models (examples include MDX, Pilot, Odyssey, TLX, RLX, and related Accord variants with the 3.5L V6).
- 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) without filter — the lower figure used when a filter change isn’t performed or in some service sheets that separate filter capacity.
These values are general guidance. If your vehicle has a different configuration (for example, a unique trim or a regional specification), the exact capacity may differ by a small margin. Always confirm with the official manual for your year and model.
Notes by model family and year
Engine oil capacity can vary slightly depending on the exact engine code (for example, certain early 3.5L V6 variants vs. later i-VTEC iterations), the presence of optional equipment (like an oil cooler), and whether the vehicle uses a larger oil filter. When in doubt, consult the exact specification sheet from Honda/Acura for your specific vehicle year and model, or call a dealership service department.
How to verify the exact capacity for your car
To ensure you add the correct amount of oil, follow these steps to verify your car’s precise capacity and current oil level.
- Check the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s service data for your exact model year and trim configuration.
- If available, confirm whether the specification is listed as “with filter” or “without filter.”
- When performing an oil change, drain the oil completely and replace the filter, then add the recommended total amount (usually about 5 quarts for most 3.5L V6 i-VTEC engines).
- Start the engine, run briefly, then shut off and wait several minutes before rechecking with the dipstick to ensure an accurate reading.
- TTop up in small increments if the dipstick shows oil below the full line, rechecking after each addition.
Following these steps helps avoid underfilling or overfilling, both of which can impact engine performance and longevity.
Summary
For most Honda and Acura 3.5L V6 i‑VTEC engines, the typical oil capacity is around 5 quarts with a new filter. Some manuals show 4.5 quarts without the filter, highlighting the importance of confirming the exact spec for your specific year and model. Always rely on your vehicle’s manual or the manufacturer’s guidance, and perform regular oil checks using the dipstick after a change to ensure proper levels.
How much oil does a 3.5 V6 engine take?
6.0 qt
Capacities and Specifications - 3.5L Ecoboost
| Item | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Engine oil (with oil filter) | 5.7 L (6.0 qt) |
| Engine coolant | 12.4 L (13.1 qt) |
| Brake fluid | Between MIN/MAX on brake fluid reservoir |
| Rear axle fluid (four-wheel drive) | 2.11 pt (1.0 L) |
How much oil does a 3.5 L V6 Toyota engine take?
6.1 quarts
3.5L V6 Engine: 6.1 quarts with filter. 2.5L Hybrid Engine: 4.5 quarts with filter.
How much oil does a Honda Civic VTEC take?
The Honda Civic with a 1.8L engine typically requires about 3.9 quarts (3.7 liters) of oil. Keeping up with regular oil changes is crucial for preventing engine wear and ensuring smooth operation.
How much oil does a Honda 3.5 VTEC take?
The oil capacity for a Honda 3.5L VTEC engine varies by model year and vehicle, but most are between 4.5 and 5.7 quarts with a filter change. For example, a 2008 Accord requires 4.5 quarts, while a 2020 Pilot needs 5.7 quarts, so you must consult your owner's manual or a reliable online source for your specific vehicle.
| Vehicle/Year | Oil Capacity (with filter) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Honda Pilot | 5.7 quarts | — |
| 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline | 4.5 quarts | — |
| 2019-2024 Honda Passport | 5.7 quarts | — |
| 2009 Honda Accord | 4.5 quarts | — |
| 2008 Honda Accord | 4.5 quarts | — |
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