What brand of oil does Honda use?
There isn’t a single brand of oil that Honda uses across its lineup. Honda specifies oil grade and performance standards rather than mandating a specific brand. Factory fills are Honda Genuine Motor Oil, but service oil can be any brand that meets the required specifications.
Understanding Honda's oil specifications
Honda requires certain viscosity and standards. For most modern Honda engines, 0W-20 full synthetic is recommended to optimize fuel economy and engine protection. Some older or region-specific models may use 5W-20 or 0W-30. Always refer to the owner's manual or the label under the hood for the exact grade and specification for your vehicle.
Key specifications to look for
Before selecting oil, verify these specifications to ensure compatibility with your Honda:
- Viscosity: 0W-20 is the common default for most modern engines; some variants may require 5W-20 or 0W-30. Confirm the exact grade in your owner's manual.
- Oil type: Full synthetic is strongly preferred for most newer Honda engines; conventional oil may be allowed in older models or certain climates per the manual.
- Specifications: API service category SN or newer; ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6 depending on model year and region.
- Brand flexibility: Honda Genuine Motor Oil is the factory fill, but any brand that meets the above specs is acceptable.
In short, match the oil to the grade and specifications listed by Honda for your model, not a single brand name.
Common brands that meet Honda specs
If you prefer name-brand oils, several well-known full-synthetic 0W-20 products are formulated to meet Honda’s specs and are widely available. The list below highlights popular options people use in Honda vehicles.
- Mobil 1 Extended Performance 0W-20
- Pennzoil Ultra Platinum Full Synthetic 0W-20
- Castrol EDGE 0W-20
- Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0W-20
- Amsoil Signature Series 0W-20
Note that not every formulation in these lines is appropriate for every model; always confirm the exact viscosity and spec for your car before buying.
Factory fill vs. after-market choices
Honda ships new vehicles with Honda Genuine Motor Oil in the crankcase. For service intervals, you may reuse Honda Genuine Motor Oil or switch to another brand that meets the specified grade and API/ILSAC standards. If your vehicle is still under warranty, using oil that meets Honda’s specs is essential to ensure warranty coverage remains intact. If you’re unsure, ask your dealer or consult the owner's manual.
Regional variations and tips
Oil requirements can vary by region due to climate, emission standards, and engine variants. In some markets, Honda documentation may cite different grades or additive packages. Always reference the local owner’s manual or service bulletin for your country. If you’re buying oil at a shop, bring the manual or the oil cap label to confirm the exact grade and spec.
Summary
There is no single brand Honda requires. The key factors are the correct viscosity (commonly 0W-20), the use of full synthetic oil, and meeting API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5/GF-6 specifications. Honda Genuine Motor Oil is the factory fill, but any reputable brand that meets the specified standards is acceptable for maintenance and service. Always verify with your manual or dealer for your specific model and region.
