What kind of oil does a 1996 Acura Integra take?
The 1996 Acura Integra is typically happiest with 5W-30 engine oil, with 10W-30 acceptable in hot weather. Use oil that meets current API service standards and ILSAC specifications; you can choose conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic depending on climate and budget. Always verify with the owner's manual or the service sticker under the hood for your exact configuration.
Recommended oil viscosity
Viscosity options affect how the oil behaves during cold starts and under operating temperatures. Here are the common choices for the 1996 Integra:
- 5W-30: Standard recommendation for most climates and driving conditions.
- 10W-30: Acceptable in hotter environments or under heavier loads if 5W-30 is not available.
- 5W-20: Not typically recommended by the original manual for this engine; may be allowed only with specific factory approvals.
In most situations, sticking with 5W-30 provides good cold-start protection and lubrication throughout the operating range.
Oil types and standards
Beyond viscosity, you can choose among oil types as long as they meet API service requirements and ILSAC standards. The Integra accepts conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic oils.
- Conventional 5W-30: Budget-friendly option that meets basic protection needs.
- Synthetic blend 5W-30: Better protection and oxidation resistance at a moderate premium.
- Full synthetic 5W-30: Best protection, particularly for higher-mileage engines or extreme temperatures.
For high-mileage engines or climates with extreme heat or cold, a high-mileage formulation or a synthetic can offer extended protection and leak resistance. Ensure the oil is rated API SN or newer and ILSAC GF standards.
Oil change intervals
Oil-change intervals depend on the oil type and driving conditions. Typical guidelines are:
- Conventional oil: about every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months.
- Synthetic blend: about every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months.
- Full synthetic: up to 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, under normal conditions.
Always refer to the owner's manual and service sticker under the hood for the official interval and to check your oil level regularly.
Summary
For a 1996 Acura Integra, the typical recommendation is 5W-30 engine oil that meets API SN or newer and ILSAC specifications. You can choose conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic, with the final choice depending on climate, driving style, and budget. Regularly check the oil level and follow the manual's recommended change intervals.
