What kind of oil does a 2011 Acura MDX take?
The 2011 Acura MDX uses 5W-20 synthetic motor oil, with an approximate capacity of 5.5 quarts when changing the filter. Always verify the exact specification on your vehicle’s owner’s manual or under-hood oil sticker.
Recommended oil and viscosity
These details summarize the primary viscosity and specification typically used for the 3.5L V6 in the 2011 MDX. The goal is to balance cold-start protection with long-term engine wear prevention.
- Viscosity: 5W-20 is the primary recommendation for normal conditions; it may be acceptable to use 0W-20 only if your owner’s manual explicitly allows it for your climate.
- Oil type: Synthetic motor oil or a high-quality synthetic-blend that meets API SN (or higher) and ILSAC GF-5 (or higher) specifications.
- Manufacturer guidance: Use oil that meets Honda/Acura specifications and carries the “Energy Conserving” label when possible.
In practice, sticking with 5W-20 synthetic oil that meets API SN and ILSAC GF-5 provides reliable protection for daily driving and highway cruising in most climates. Always reference the owner’s manual or the engine bay sticker for your exact model’s allowances.
Oil capacity and service notes
Understanding capacity helps ensure you add the right amount of oil after a change and avoid overfilling. The MDX’s 3.5L V6 holds roughly 5.5 quarts of oil when the filter is changed.
- Capacity: Approximately 5.5 quarts (about 5.2 liters) with the filter installed.
- Oil change intervals: Typically guided by the vehicle’s maintenance minder; with synthetic oil, many drivers extend to about 7,500 miles under normal conditions, but conditions like short trips, extreme temperatures, or heavy towing can require more frequent changes.
Always verify the exact capacity and interval in your owner’s manual and follow the maintenance minder prompts for the optimal schedule for your driving conditions.
Climate and operational considerations
Climate can influence the oil you choose. While 5W-20 is standard for the MDX, some colder or hotter environments may prompt different recommendations, and the manual will specify if alternatives are allowed. For severe conditions, ensure you select a high-quality synthetic that meets the listed specifications.
Where to verify and tips for buyers
To be absolutely certain you’re using the correct oil for your specific vehicle, check the owner’s manual, the engine oil cap, and the under-hood sticker. If you’re buying oil from aftermarket brands, choose products that clearly state API SN or higher and ILSAC GF-5 or higher, and that they meet Honda/Acura standards.
Summary
For a 2011 Acura MDX, the standard recommendation is 5W-20 synthetic motor oil, with an oil capacity of about 5.5 quarts when changing the filter. Use oil that meets API SN or higher and ILSAC GF-5 or higher, and follow the maintenance minder for change intervals. Always confirm exact specs on the owner’s manual or under-hood label.
