What engine oil brand does Honda recommend?
Honda’s guidance is straightforward: use Honda Genuine Motor Oil, or any oil that meets the car’s specifications. For most modern Honda engines, the recommended viscosity is 0W-20 synthetic. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or ask a dealer for the exact requirements for your model and climate.
Honda's official stance on brands and standards
Honda generally prefers Honda Genuine Motor Oil for guaranteed compatibility with its engines. If you choose an alternative brand, make sure the oil meets current API standards (API SP or newer) and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer), and that the viscosity matches what the manual prescribes. This helps protect engine performance and can affect warranty eligibility if specifications aren’t met.
Key criteria for approved oils
The following criteria help determine whether an alternative oil is suitable for a Honda. Use this as a quick checklist when shopping.
- Brand and compatibility: Honda Genuine Motor Oil is explicitly endorsed; other brands are acceptable only if they meet Honda’s specifications.
- Standards: Look for API SP (or newer) certification and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer).
- Viscosity: Use the grade specified in your manual (commonly 0W-20 for modern Hondas; some models require 5W-20 or 5W-30).
- Oil type: Fully synthetic is typically recommended; synthetic blends are acceptable if the manual permits; conventional oil is rarely advised for newer engines.
When evaluating an oil, verify that the bottle clearly lists API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) alongside the correct viscosity for your vehicle. This ensures proper lubrication and helps maintain warranty coverage.
How to verify the oil on the bottle
Shopping for oil can be straightforward if you follow a simple label check. Here’s how to confirm you’re choosing correctly.
- Check the packaging for API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) certification.
- Confirm the viscosity matches your model’s specification (for example, 0W-20).
- Prefer Honda Genuine Motor Oil for a guaranteed fit with Honda engines, or select a reputable brand that clearly states compatibility with Honda vehicles.
- Review the owner's manual for any model-specific notes or warranty considerations tied to oil choice.
Adhering to these checks helps ensure you’re using an oil that aligns with Honda’s requirements and minimizes risk to engine health.
Summary
Honda recommends Honda Genuine Motor Oil, but an equivalent oil that meets API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) standards, and the viscosity specified in the manual, is acceptable. For most modern Hondas, 0W-20 synthetic is the default, though some models may specify different viscosities. Always consult the owner’s manual or a dealer to confirm the exact oil brand, grade, and certification for your vehicle.
