What kind of oil should I put in my Acura?
Most newer Acura models require synthetic 0W-20 oil that meets GF-6 specifications. Always verify the exact oil grade and standard for your vehicle in the owner's manual or on the engine oil fill cap.
Understanding the oil your Acura needs
Engine oil requirements can vary by model and year. Acura generally follows Honda’s guidelines, and in the modern lineup the default is a full-synthetic 0W-20 oil that meets ILSAC GF-6. However, some older or special-engine variants may call for a different viscosity, so it’s essential to confirm for your exact car.
Here are the common oil types you may encounter in Acura vehicles today:
- Synthetic 0W-20 (GF-6) — the standard recommendation for most current Acura models.
- Synthetic 5W-30 — used on some older or particular engine configurations; always verify with the manual.
- Conventional oil — rarely recommended for newer Acura models; typically appears only on legacy engines if at all.
In short, your Acura is most likely designed for 0W-20 synthetic oil, but always cross-check the official guidance for your exact year and model to avoid wrong specifications.
How to confirm the exact specification for your model
To ensure you use the right oil for your car, use these steps to verify the specification for your Acura:
- Consult the owner’s manual and look for the "Oil recommendations" or "Specifications" section for the correct viscosity and standard (for example, 0W-20 GF-6).
- Check the oil fill cap under the hood, which often lists the required viscosity (such as "0W-20").
- If still in doubt, sign in to the Acura Owner’s Portal or contact your local dealer service department for confirmation specific to your VIN.
Following these steps helps ensure you use the right oil, preserving performance and warranty coverage.
Choosing a brand and oil type
As long as the oil meets the specified viscosity and GF-6/ILSAC standard indicated by your vehicle, you can choose from reputable brands. The important factor is that the oil is fully synthetic and meets the required specification; avoid using oils that do not meet the listed standard or viscosity.
- Mobil 1 (synthetic 0W-20 GF-6) — widely used and trusted across many Acura models.
- Castrol EDGE (synthetic 0W-20 GF-6) — compatible with Acura specifications.
- Pennzoil Platinum (synthetic 0W-20 GF-6) — another approved option.
- Valvoline Synthetic (0W-20 GF-6) — commonly available and suitable when it meets GF-6.
Brand choice is flexible as long as the oil meets the exact viscosity and GF-6 standard required by your car.
Maintenance tips for Acura engine oil
Proper maintenance helps maximize engine life and performance. Here are practical tips to keep your oil in good shape between changes.
- Follow the oil-change interval indicated by the maintenance minder or owner’s manual, typically stressing synthetic oil for modern Acura engines.
- Use the recommended oil under all operating conditions; severe climates, frequent short trips, or heavy towing may warrant shorter change intervals.
- Avoid mixing oils with different viscosities or brands unless the manual allows it; if you must top off, use the same viscosity and brand family when possible.
- Keep receipts and service records; using the correct oil supports warranty coverage and resale value.
Adhering to the recommended oil type and change schedule helps maintain peak performance and protects engine components over time.
Summary
For most current Acura models, the default recommendation is full-synthetic 0W-20 oil that meets GF-6 standards. Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle by checking the owner’s manual, the under-hood oil cap, or your dealer resources. Choose a reputable brand that meets the required viscosity and GF-6 standard, and follow the recommended maintenance intervals to sustain performance and warranty protection.
