What kind of oil does a 1998 Acura CL take?
The 1998 Acura CL generally requires a 5W-30 engine oil, usable in both of its era-appropriate engines. In very hot climates or under specific conditions, a 10W-30 may be acceptable, but the standard recommendation is 5W-30, with options for conventional or synthetic oil. Always confirm with the owner's manual or a trusted mechanic for your exact engine and climate.
Oil recommendations for the 1998 CL
Below are the common oil options you’ll encounter for the model year, covering the typical grades and compatibility to help you choose the right product.
- 5W-30 conventional motor oil that meets the API standards in effect at the time (and current API SL/SM or newer equivalents).
- 5W-30 synthetic motor oil (full synthetic) that meets API SL/SM or newer equivalents for enhanced protection and cold-start performance.
- 10W-30 motor oil as an alternative in very hot climates or if recommended by a qualified technician, ensuring it still meets the vehicle’s specifications.
In practice, using 5W-30 is suitable for most climates and driving styles. Synthetic 5W-30 is a popular choice for improved protection and longevity, while 10W-30 is sometimes chosen for extreme heat or older engine tolerances.
Engine options and oil considerations
The 1998 CL was offered with more than one engine option, and each has its own capacity, though both typically use the same viscosity grade. This section breaks down the practical expectations for oil choice and capacity by engine.
Two common engines in the 1998 CL
- 2.3L inline-4 engine — commonly uses 5W-30 oil; oil capacity is typically around 4.5–4.8 quarts with a filter replaced.
- 3.0L V6 engine — commonly uses 5W-30 oil; oil capacity is typically around 5.0–5.5 quarts with a filter replaced.
Always verify the exact capacity for your specific VIN and engine by checking the owner’s manual or a dealership service bulletin, as small variations can exist between production runs or regional specifications.
Practical guidance for choosing and maintaining oil
These tips help you select the right oil and keep the engine in good shape over time. Before making changes, review the manual and consider your local climate and driving habits.
- Consult the owner’s manual for the exact grade and capacity specific to your vehicle’s engine and market region.
- Opt for a high-quality oil that meets or exceeds API specifications and is appropriate for conventional or synthetic usage.
- When using synthetic oil, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for oil change intervals, as synthetic oils can extend drain intervals in some cases.
- Always replace the oil filter with a new one at each oil change and properly dispose of used oil.
These practices help ensure proper lubrication, temperature control, and engine longevity, which are especially important for older vehicles like the 1998 CL.
Bottom line
For most 1998 Acura CL models, 5W-30 is the standard recommended oil grade, usable in both engine options with either conventional or synthetic formulations. In hot climates or under heavy load, 10W-30 can be considered if approved by your manual or a trusted mechanic. When in doubt, stick with 5W-30 and choose a high-quality oil that meets API standards, and follow the manufacturer’s change intervals for best results.
Summary
The 1998 Acura CL typically calls for 5W-30 engine oil, available in conventional or synthetic forms. A 10W-30 alternative may be used in very hot climates or under certain conditions. Confirm the exact grade and capacity for your specific engine and region via the owner’s manual, and always use a fresh oil filter during changes. Regular oil changes with the correct viscosity help preserve engine performance on this late-1990s model.
How much oil does a 1998 Acura CL 2.3 take?
1998 Acura 2.3 and 3.0CL Specifications
| Engine Type | 3.0-liter, 24-valve SOHC w/VTEC V-6 (3.0CL) |
|---|---|
| CAPACITIES | . |
| Crankcase | 4.6 U.S. quarts (4.4 liters) refill capacity, including filter (3.0CL) 4.5 U.S. quarts (4.3 liters) refill capacity, including filter (2.3CL) |
What kind of oil does a Acura CL take?
5W-30
Classified as standard with an SAE oil weight of 5W-30, providing the strength needed for maximum engine performance.
Can I use 5w30 instead of 5W20 in my Acura?
Everywhere else in the world besides the US, depending on climate, Acura/Honda suggests different viscosities in our J32/J35 engines, ranging from 5w20-10w40. These engines were designed to run on 5w30. You aren't going to hurt anything. Especially if you live somewhere hot.
What kind of oil does a 1998 Acura take?
If you own a TL between model years 2004-2014, your engine's recommended oil is 5W-20, a fully synthetic oil; if your Acura TL model is even older, from model years 1999-2003, the most versatile and safe oil to use in your engine is 5W-30 synthetic oil.
