What kind of oil does a 2006 Acura RL take?
The 2006 Acura RL typically uses synthetic engine oil with a viscosity of 5W-20, meeting ILSAC GF-4 or higher, and the oil capacity is about 5.4 quarts including a filter. Always verify the exact specification on the owner’s manual or the under-hood label for your specific vehicle.
The RL is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 and shares oil recommendations with other Acura/Honda models from its era. Choosing the right oil is important for engine protection, efficiency, and maintaining warranty coverage. The following overview covers the standard grade, capacity, and practical considerations for owners of the 2006 RL.
Recommended oil grade and type
Use a high-quality synthetic engine oil that meets the ILSAC GF-4 (or newer) standard. The baseline viscosity recommended for the 2006 RL is 5W-20; some climates may allow 0W-20, but 5W-20 is the typical baseline.
- Viscosity: 5W-20 (synthetic or synthetic blend) as the standard option.
- Specification: ILSAC GF-4 or higher, with API SM or higher certification.
- Type: Synthetic engine oil is preferred for this model.
- Capacity: Approximately 5.4 quarts (with filter), allowing a small margin for topping off.
When in doubt, check the oil filler cap and the owner’s manual for the exact specification for your vehicle, as there can be minor variations by production date or regional requirements.
Climate and driving considerations
Climate and operating conditions can influence the oil choice. For very cold climates, a 0W-20 grade may be acceptable if specified by the manual, while in temperate to hot climates 5W-20 synthetic is typically recommended. Severe service, such as frequent short trips or heavy towing, may justify more frequent changes or higher-quality synthetic oils.
- Cold climates: 0W-20 may be used if specified by the manual; confirm with documentation.
- Typical climates: 5W-20 synthetic remains the standard recommendation.
- Severe service: Consider more frequent oil changes and synthetic grade oils designed for demanding use.
Always verify with the car’s booklet or dealer to confirm the exact oil grade for your vehicle's production date and region.
Where to verify the specification
To confirm the exact specification for your RL, consult the owner’s manual, the under-hood oil sticker, or the service bulletin from Acura. If you can't locate a physical manual, Acura’s official site and authorized dealerships can provide a digital copy or guidance tailored to your VIN.
Maintenance tips
Follow the maintenance schedule for oil changes as described in the manual, typically every 5,000–7,500 miles under normal conditions or more often with severe driving. Use a new oil filter and ensure proper torque on the drain plug. Choose a high-quality filter compatible with your chosen oil type.
Summary
The 2006 Acura RL generally takes 5W-20 synthetic engine oil meeting ILSAC GF-4 or higher, with an oil capacity around 5.4 quarts including the filter. Always verify the exact specification in the owner’s manual or on the under-hood label and tailor your choice to climate and driving conditions. Regular oil changes with the correct viscosity help maintain the reliability of the 3.5L V6.
