What kind of oil does a Honda Pilot 2025 take?
The 2025 Honda Pilot generally takes 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil, with a typical capacity of about 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) when changing the oil and filter. Always check your owner’s manual or with a dealer for your exact trim and region, as specifications can vary.
In practice, Honda designs the Pilot to run on 0W-20 synthetic oil under normal driving conditions, and the vehicle’s oil life monitor will prompt you when it’s time for a change. The following guide outlines the official recommendations and practical tips to ensure you use the correct oil and keep the engine in top condition.
Oil grade, type and capacity
Key specifications for the 2025 Pilot's engine oil are summarized here.
What to know about oil grade
- Grade: 0W-20 synthetic motor oil is recommended for the 3.5L V6 that powers the Pilot.
- Type: Full synthetic motor oil.
- Capacity: Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) when changing the oil and filter.
- Standards: Oil should meet ILSAC GF-6 (and be compatible with Honda’s specification); using Honda-approved oil is recommended for reliability and warranty considerations.
When selecting oil, choose a reputable brand that meets the GF-6 standard and Honda’s specification to ensure proper lubrication and performance.
Oil change intervals and maintenance reminders
Understanding how often to change the oil helps protect the engine and maintain warranty coverage.
- Normal driving: Change interval is commonly every 7,500 miles (12,000 kilometers) or 12 months, whichever comes first, as indicated by Honda’s maintenance minder system.
- Severe conditions: In frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, *towing*, or heavy payload use, the interval may be shortened to roughly 3,750–5,000 miles (6,000–8,000 kilometers) depending on driving habits and conditions.
- Oil life monitor: Rely on the vehicle’s oil life monitor for the most accurate timing and always follow dealer recommendations for your climate and usage.
- Filter and hardware: Use a new oil filter with each oil change and replace the drain plug’s washer if applicable; ensure you use the correct capacity.
These guidelines help maintain engine health and support optimal fuel efficiency and performance. If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual or contact a Honda service specialist for your region.
Practical steps for performing an oil change
Below is a straightforward outline to keep in mind if you’re planning an oil change yourself or reviewing a shop’s service procedure.
- Warm up the engine to circulate oil, then park on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Lift the vehicle safely and support it with stands if needed; locate the drain plug and oil filter.
- Place a pan underneath, remove the drain plug, and allow the old oil to drain completely.
- Remove the oil filter, install a new filter, and replace the drain plug with a new washer if required.
- Fill with 4.5 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic oil (check level with the dipstick and add gradually to reach the correct level).
- Reconnect the battery, start the engine, and check for leaks; recheck oil level after a few minutes of idle and top off if necessary.
Always dispose of used oil and filter at an approved recycling facility and follow local regulations for hazardous waste disposal.
Where to find authoritative guidance
For the most accurate and model-specific information, refer to your 2025 Honda Pilot owner’s manual or contact an authorized Honda service center. They can confirm the exact oil grade, capacity, and maintenance intervals for your regional market and trim level.
Summary
In short, the 2025 Honda Pilot uses 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil, with a typical change capacity of about 4.5 quarts when replacing the oil and filter. Use the vehicle’s oil life monitor to determine the exact change interval, and follow the manual’s guidance for your climate and usage. Choosing a reputable oil that meets ILSAC GF-6 standards and Honda’s specifications will help ensure long engine life and optimal performance.
