What kind of oil does a Acura Vigor take?
An Acura Vigor, produced in the early 1990s, typically calls for SAE 5W-30 motor oil, and it can be used with either conventional or synthetic formulations depending on climate and maintenance history. Always confirm the exact specification with the owner’s manual or a dealership for your specific vehicle.
Context: the Vigor’s lubrication needs
The Acura Vigor sits in Acura’s early-1990s lineup as a compact sedan, sharing technology with Honda models of the era. Its engine lubrication guidance reflects the period’s standard practices: use a light, stable oil that performs well across a range of temperatures. While synthetic oils are commonly used today for various engines, the Vigor’s requirements are straightforward: match viscosity to climate and follow the manufacturer’s API specification.
Oil specifications and options
Below is a concise guide to the oil choices commonly used in the Vigor. The list that follows summarizes the typical options; different model years or markets may have slight variations, so the manual is the authoritative source.
- 5W-30 conventional mineral oil (API SJ/SL or newer) — standard, widely available option for most climates.
- 5W-30 synthetic motor oil — offers longer drain intervals and improved high-temperature stability.
- 10W-30 conventional oil — alternative in very hot climates or if 5W-30 isn’t available, though 5W-30 is usually preferred.
- Avoid high-viscosity oils such as 20W-50 unless explicitly recommended by Honda/Acura for a particular condition.
Bottom line: 5W-30 is the typical default for the Vigor, with flexibility to 10W-30 in certain climates, and both conventional and synthetic formulations are acceptable depending on your maintenance plan.
Oil change and maintenance considerations
Understanding when and how to change the oil is as important as choosing the right viscosity. The following steps cover general practices typical of this era and align with common maintenance guidance for the Vigor.
- Warm up the engine briefly, then park on a level surface and turn off the engine before starting the oil change.
- Drain the old oil by removing the drain plug, and replace the drain washer if needed; collect the used oil in an appropriate container for recycling.
- Remove and replace the oil filter with the correct part for your model year, ensuring a clean seating surface.
- Refill with the recommended oil grade and amount from the manual, then check the level with the dipstick and top up as needed.
- Dispose of used oil and the old filter at an authorized recycling facility, and reset any maintenance reminder light if equipped.
Notes on intervals: traditional conventional oil often warranted shorter changes (approximately every 3,000 miles in older Hondas), while synthetic formulations can extend intervals. Always follow the service schedule in your owner’s manual for best results.
Where to confirm the exact specification for your vehicle
The definitive source is the owner’s manual for your specific model year and market. If you no longer have the manual, a Honda/Acura dealer or official service database can confirm the correct viscosity, API specification, and capacity for your Vigor. Variations can occur by year and region, so verify before purchase or service.
Summary
In short, an Acura Vigor typically uses 5W-30 motor oil, with both conventional and synthetic options acceptable. Some climates or maintenance histories may justify using 10W-30, but always verify with the owner’s manual. Adhere to proper change intervals and responsible disposal to keep the engine running smoothly.
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 3.7 L V6 take?
Capacities and Specifications - 3.7L
| Name | Specification |
|---|---|
| Recommended motor oil (U.S.): Motorcraft® SAE 5W-20 Premium Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W20-QSP | WSS-M2C945-A |
| Recommended motor oil (Canada): Motorcraft® SAE 5W-20 Super Premium Motor Oil CXO-5W20-LSP12 | WSS-M2C945-A |
What kind of oil does a 1992 Acura Vigor take?
SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil
5W-30 (All TEMPS) - SAE 5W-30 is preferred. Capacity: 4.5 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.
What type of oil does an Acura need?
Information
| CL | 2003: 5W-20 (S/UFS), topped off with 0W-20 (UFS) |
|---|---|
| MDX Sport Hybrid | 2017-2020: 0W-20 (UFS) |
| RDX | 2007-2012: 5W-30 HTO-06 Specification (UFS) 2013-2020: 0W-20 (UFS) |
| RL | 2003-2004: 5W-30 (S/UFS) 2005-2008: 5W-20 (S/UFS), topped off with 0W-20 (UFS) 2009-2012: 5W-20 (S/UFS) |
| RLX/RLX Sport Hybrid | 2014-2020: 0W-20 (UFS) |
