What is the best oil for 2017 Acura RDX?

The best oil for a 2017 Acura RDX is full-synthetic 0W-20 that meets Acura/Honda specifications; 5W-20 can be an acceptable alternative in certain climates. This guidance follows the vehicle’s manual and common service recommendations to protect the 3.5L V6 engine and maintain efficiency.

Official specifications for the 2017 Acura RDX

Understanding the factory guidance helps you choose oil with the right viscosity and certifications. The 3.5L V6 in the 2017 RDX generally requires a full-synthetic oil with a 0W-20 grade as the primary specification. In some climates or locations where 0W-20 is not available, a 5W-20 grade may be used as an approved alternative, but the 0W-20 remains the default recommendation for cold-start protection and fuel efficiency. Oils should meet API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 standards, and you should use Honda/Acura Genuine Motor Oil or an equivalent that satisfies these specs. The recommended service interval for synthetic oil is typically 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first; more frequent changes are advised under severe driving conditions.

• Oil type: Full synthetic


• Viscosity: 0W-20 primary; 5W-20 acceptable as an alternative in some circumstances


• Certifications: API SN or newer; ILSAC GF-5


• OEM-approved options: Honda/Acura Genuine Motor Oil or equivalent that meets the above specs


• Oil change interval (synthetic): typically 7,500 miles or 12 months, with more frequent changes under severe driving conditions

Why the recommended 0W-20 matters

Choosing 0W-20 supports easier cold starts, better fuel economy, and reduced engine wear for the RDX’s 3.5L V6. The grade is selected to balance performance, protection, and efficiency across typical driving scenarios. If a different viscosity is used, stick to a grade the manual approves to avoid potential warranty or wear concerns.

Choosing the right oil for your climate

Climate and driving conditions influence the ideal viscosity. The following guidance helps you decide which grade to use if you cannot obtain 0W-20.

• 0W-20 is the preferred grade for most environments, delivering strong cold-start protection and efficiency.


• 5W-20 is an acceptable alternative if 0W-20 is unavailable or in warmer climates where engine temperatures are consistently higher.


• Avoid thicker grades (such as 5W-30 or 0W-30) unless explicitly allowed by the manual; using the wrong grade can affect lubrication and fuel economy.


• In extreme heat or demanding driving, stay with the grade recommended by the manufacturer and avoid mixing viscosities.


• For high-mileage engines or specialty applications, consider a high-mileage synthetic that still meets the factory spec (0W-20 or 5W-20) to support wear protection.

climate considerations emphasize using a 0W-20-compatible synthetic whenever possible, with 5W-20 as a practical substitute only when specified or necessary due to availability.

Brand and product recommendations

There are many reputable brands offering 0W-20 full synthetic oils that meet the required API and GF standards. Pick a product that clearly states 0W-20 and the necessary certifications on the label, and consider sticking with a well-known brand for reliability and availability.

• Honda/Acura Genuine Motor Oil 0W-20


• Mobil 1 0W-20 Full Synthetic


• Castrol EDGE 0W-20


• Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 0W-20


• Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0W-20


• Motul 8100 X-Flow 0W-20 (or other Motul 0W-20 options that meet API GF-5)

Note: Always verify the label for 0W-20 and confirm it meets API SN or newer and GF-5, plus meeting Honda/Acura specifications. OEM or equivalent oils are a safe guarantee of compatibility.

Maintenance tips to keep oil performing

Optimal oil performance comes from proper maintenance discipline. The following practical steps help ensure you get the most protection and efficiency from your oil choice.

• Check the oil level regularly (at least monthly) using the dipstick, and top up with the same grade if necessary.


• Use the correct viscosity and certification; avoid mixing different oil grades.


• Replace the oil filter with every oil change to maintain filtration and contamination control.


• Follow the recommended oil change interval for synthetic oil (typically 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first) and adjust for severe driving conditions.


• Keep receipts or documentation of oil changes, and monitor oil consumption; unusual consumption should be checked by a technician.

Sticking to the manufacturer’s guidance on oil grade, approval, and change intervals helps safeguard engine longevity and performance.

Summary

For the 2017 Acura RDX, the best oil choice is a full-synthetic 0W-20 that meets API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5, with 5W-20 as an acceptable alternative in certain climates or if 0W-20 is unavailable. Use Honda/Acura Genuine Motor Oil or an equivalent that satisfies these specs, and follow the standard oil-change interval for synthetic oil (typically around 7,500 miles or 12 months, with adjustments for severe driving). Choosing a reputable brand and maintaining proper oil level and filter changes will help preserve engine performance and efficiency. Always refer to the owner’s manual for the exact guidance specific to your vehicle and region.

What kind of oil does a 2017 Acura RDX take?

The 2017 Acura RDX requires 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil, with a capacity of about 4.5 quarts when changing the filter. It is highly recommended to use full synthetic oil for optimal performance and longevity. 
Recommended oil specifications

• Viscosity: 0W-20
• Composition: Full synthetic
• Capacity: Approximately 4.5 quarts with a filter change. It's important to check the dipstick after refilling. 

Why full synthetic oil is recommended

• Peak performance: Full synthetic oil is specially formulated for Acura's engines to maintain peak performance. 
• Engine protection: It provides superior lubrication and protection, especially at high temperatures, and helps keep internal engine parts clean. 
• Fuel efficiency: Full synthetic oil can help improve fuel economy. 
• Longer intervals: Using full synthetic oil can extend the time between oil changes, often to 7,500 to 10,000 miles. 

Additional tips

• Always check your owner's manual for the most accurate and specific recommendations for your vehicle. 
• You can also use high-mileage full synthetic oil if your 2017 RDX has over 75,000 miles, as it is specifically designed to reduce leaks and oil consumption in older engines, notes Advance Auto Parts. 

What oil do Acura dealers use?

Acura recommends its own Acura Genuine Motor Oil, but if you use another brand, it must be a premium-grade conventional or full synthetic oil that matches the viscosity grade specified in your owner's manual. For specific recommendations, such as for an Acura RDX, consult your owner's manual or look up information on the manufacturer's website like Mobil's oil finder. 

• Official recommendation: Acura Genuine Motor Oil is engineered specifically for Acura vehicles and is available at Acura dealers. 
• Alternatives: If not using Acura's oil, you can use a premium conventional or full synthetic oil. Ensure the oil has the correct viscosity grade (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30) as listed in your owner's manual. 
• Other brands: Some brands like Mobil provide tools on their websites to help you find the right oil for your specific Acura model. 
• Important: Do not use oil additives, as they can negatively affect your engine's performance. 

What year of Acura RDX to stay away from?

The Acura RDX years to avoid are generally the 2015, 2019, and 2021 models due to significant issues. The 2019 is often cited as the worst, especially the first model year of the third generation, with problems like engine stalling and power loss. Other years with notable problems include the 2013, 2014, and 2018. 
This video discusses common problems with the Acura RDX, including potential engine, transmission, and electrical issues: 59sHey, ask your dadYouTube · May 24, 2025
Years to be cautious about

• 2013-2015: These years can have transmission issues like rough shifting and slipping, and some models may have engine oil leaks. 
• 2015: In addition to transmission problems, this model year had issues with airbags and the soy-based wiring insulation attracted animals. 
• 2018: Reported transmission problems and potential engine issues like head gasket or timing chain problems have been noted. 
• 2019: This is widely considered the least reliable model year, particularly because it was the first year of a new generation. Owners have reported engine stalling, power loss, and issues with the rear glass shattering. 
• 2021: This year experienced issues with the transmission, brakes, and engine stalling due to a potential intercooler design flaw that could let moisture into the engine. 

What to do if buying used

• Thoroughly inspect any used model for the specific issues mentioned above. 
• If considering one of these years, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. 
• Check for service records and recall history. 

This video demonstrates how to inspect an Acura RDX for potential issues, including engine oil leaks and suspension problems: 58sBCauto_YouTube · Aug 21, 2024

Which oil is good for an Acura RDX?

For peak performance, the manufacturer and our team recommend SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil. We highly suggest Acura's specific brand of motor oil because it's specially formulated for the automaker's engines.