What oil does a 1999 Acura TL take?
The 1999 Acura TL uses 5W-30 engine oil (API SJ or higher) with an approximate capacity of 4.5 quarts, including the filter.
In this article, we break down the exact oil specification, discuss viscosity options, synthetic versus conventional choices, climate considerations, and practical maintenance tips for this classic Acura model.
Oil Type and Viscosity
Choosing the right viscosity and ensuring the oil meets the correct API/ILSAC specifications helps protect the TL’s V6 engine and keeps it running smoothly.
Choosing the right grade
The recommended default for the 1999 TL is 5W-30. You can opt for synthetic or conventional oil, provided it meets the necessary specifications. In some climates, 10W-30 is an acceptable alternative if 5W-30 is not available, but always verify compatibility with your manual.
Common options you may encounter are listed here. The TL’s spec centers on a 5W-30 grade, but you can consider alternatives based on climate and availability.
- 5W-30 conventional motor oil that meets API SJ (or higher) and ILSAC rating
- 5W-30 full-synthetic motor oil that meets API SJ (or higher) and ILSAC rating
- 10W-30 motor oil (acceptable in hot climates or when 5W-30 isn’t available; check owner's manual)
In practice, 5W-30 is the recommended default for most climates and driving conditions. Synthetic 5W-30 offers better protection and longer drain intervals, while conventional 5W-30 is typically sufficient for standard use.
Oil Capacity and Change Intervals
Understanding capacity and suggested change intervals helps you plan oil changes without confusion about how much oil your engine holds.
- Engine oil capacity (with filter) is approximately 4.5 quarts, with a small tolerance depending on the exact engine variant and whether you replace a drain plug or filter.
- Typical change intervals: about every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) for conventional oil, and about 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) for synthetic oil, assuming normal driving conditions.
Always verify the interval in your owner's manual and adjust for severe service or extreme driving conditions (towing, short trips, or hot climates can shorten the interval).
Synthetic vs Conventional and Brand Options
You can choose between conventional and synthetic oils for the 1999 TL, and you may prefer certain brands based on availability, price, and personal preferences. Ensure the oil you pick meets the required API/ILSAC specs.
- 5W-30 conventional oil (budget-friendly option that meets API SJ or higher)
- 5W-30 full-synthetic oil (offers better temperature stability and longer drain intervals)
- Brands commonly compatible with Hondas/Acuras: Castrol, Mobil 1, Valvoline, Pennzoil, Havoline, and Honda/Acura-branded formulations
For best results, choose a reputable brand and confirm the oil meets the required specifications. Synthetic is not required but can provide extended protection under demanding conditions.
Climate, Driving Habits, and Other Considerations
Climate and driving patterns influence oil choice and change frequency. In very cold climates you may benefit from a slightly thinner oil; in very hot climates stability at high temperatures matters. Always follow the manual's guidance and your mechanic's advice for severe service scenarios.
Note that some regions or model years may have minor variations; when in doubt, refer to the 1999 TL’s owner's manual or consult a dealership service department for the exact specification for your vehicle’s engine code.
Summary
The 1999 Acura TL uses 5W-30 motor oil meeting API SJ or higher, with an oil capacity of about 4.5 quarts (including the filter). You can use conventional or synthetic 5W-30, with synthetic providing extra protection and longer service intervals. In hotter climates or when 5W-30 is unavailable, 10W-30 may be used, but always verify with the owner's manual. Regular oil changes at the recommended intervals help maintain engine health for this classic Acura model.
Resources and Notes
Always confirm the exact specification for your vehicle by checking the owner's manual or contacting a Honda/Acura service advisor, especially if your TL has a non-standard engine or modifications. Regulations and oil formulations may vary by region, so local guidance is also valuable.
Conclusion
For most owners of a 1999 Acura TL, the safest and most straightforward choice is 5W-30 oil that meets API SJ or higher, with an approximate 4.5-quart capacity and standard maintenance intervals. Whether you select conventional or synthetic oil, adhering to the recommended grade and service intervals will help keep the engine performing reliably for years to come.
Summary of Key Points
- Recommended oil: 5W-30 (API SJ or higher, ILSAC rating compatible)
- Oil capacity: ~4.5 quarts with filter
- Oil types: Conventional or synthetic acceptable
- Alternate viscosity: 10W-30 in certain circumstances and climates, if allowed by manual
- Change intervals: ~3,000 miles for conventional, 5,000–7,500 miles for synthetic, with climate adjustments
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 type of oil does an Acura TL take?
The oil type for an Acura TL depends on the model year, but generally, models from 2004-2014 use 5W-20 synthetic oil, while older models (1999-2003) typically use 5W-30 synthetic oil. The 2012-2014 models specifically recommend 0W-20 oil. Always confirm the exact requirement in your owner's manual or on the oil cap before adding oil.
For different Acura TL model years
- 2004-2008: Use 5W-20 synthetic oil.
- 2009-2014 (3.7L engine): Use 5W-20 synthetic oil.
- 2012-2014 (3.5L engine): Use 0W-20 synthetic oil.
- 1999-2003: Use 5W-30 synthetic oil.
Important considerations
- Climate: For older models that have high mileage or are in very hot climates, some mechanics suggest using a slightly thicker oil like 5W-30 if you notice oil consumption with the recommended 5W-20.
- Synthetic oil: It is recommended to use synthetic oil for all these model years to help keep the engine clean and running smoothly.
- Owner's manual: The definitive source for the correct oil type is always the vehicle's owner's manual or the oil cap itself.
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 1999 Acura TL take?
If you own a TL between model years 2004-2014, your engine's recommended oil is 5W-20, a fully synthetic oil; if your Acura TL model is even older, from model years 1999-2003, the most versatile and safe oil to use in your engine is 5W-30 synthetic oil.
