What oil does a Honda Civic SI take?
The Honda Civic Si uses 0W-20 synthetic motor oil, typically Honda Genuine 0W-20 or an equivalent that meets API SN/SN Plus and ILSAC GF-6 standards. The engine capacity with a filter is about 3.4 quarts. Always verify the exact specification in your owner’s manual for your model year.
Oil grade and standards
Choosing the right oil relies on viscosity, synthetic composition, and industry certifications. For the Civic Si, a light 0W-20 grade is specified to balance cold-start protection, fuel economy, and turbocharged engine performance. Oils that meet the appropriate API and ILSAC standards ensure compatibility with Honda’s tolerances and emission controls.
Key specifications to verify before buying oil:
- Viscosity: 0W-20
- Type: Fully synthetic engine oil
- Certifications: API SN (or higher) and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer)
- Branding: Honda Genuine 0W-20 or any reputable brand that clearly meets the above specs
- Capacity: About 3.4 quarts with oil filter (check precisely for your year/model)
Conclusion: For the Civic Si, select a synthetic 0W-20 that meets API SN/SN Plus or SP and ILSAC GF-6 or newer, and pair it with a compatible oil filter. This ensures proper lubrication under the turbocharged operating conditions.
Oil brands and options
Many reputable manufacturers offer 0W-20 synthetic oils that meet Honda’s requirements. When shopping, look for the 0W-20 grade and the appropriate certifications listed above. Using a recognized brand with the correct specifications helps maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.
Common options that typically meet the spec include:
- Honda Genuine 0W-20
- Mobil 1 0W-20 Advanced Fuel Economy
- Castrol EDGE 0W-20
- Royal Purple High-Performance 0W-20
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20
Conclusion: Any 0W-20 synthetic oil that is clearly labeled to meet API SN/SN Plus or SP and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer), and is suitable for turbocharged engines, is acceptable for the Civic Si. Always confirm the label before purchasing.
Model-year specifics
Current generation Civic Si (2022–present)
For the latest-generation Civic Si, Honda continues to specify 0W-20 synthetic oil. The engine capacity with a new filter is approximately 3.4 quarts. Maintenance intervals are guided by Honda’s maintenance minder system, though many owners follow around 7,500 miles under normal conditions with synthetic oil; more frequent changes (roughly every 3,750–5,000 miles) may be recommended in severe or high-stress driving. Always refer to the owner’s manual for your exact year’s requirements.
If you’re performing an oil change yourself, here are the basics to follow:
- Warm up the engine briefly, then park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Turn off the engine and place a drain pan beneath the oil sump plug.
- Remove the drain plug and allow the used oil to drain completely.
- Remove and replace the oil filter with a new one compatible with your Civic Si.
- Reinstall the drain plug, then add the new 0W-20 synthetic oil according to the capacity (about 3.4 quarts with filter).
- Check the oil level with the dipstick, adding a little at a time until it reaches the correct mark.
- Start the engine, check for leaks, and reset any maintenance minder or oil-change indicator as needed.
Conclusion: Using the correct 0W-20 synthetic oil and a new filter keeps the turbocharged engine properly lubricated. Always ensure the level is within the recommended range after the first few minutes of idle and reset service reminders when you complete the change.
Maintenance notes and reminders
To stay aligned with Honda’s guidelines and preserve performance, consider these reminders:
- Use oil that meets API SN/ SP and GF-6 or newer, with 0W-20 viscosity.
- Prefer synthetic oil for the Civic Si due to turbocharged operation and temperature variations.
- Follow the Maintenance Minder system’s recommendations, which adapt to driving conditions and usage.
- Keep the correct oil-capacity figures in mind (approximately 3.4 quarts with filter) and avoid overfilling.
Conclusion: Adhering to the recommended oil grade, staying within capacity, and following maintenance reminders will help sustain the Civic Si’s performance and reliability over time.
Summary
The Honda Civic Si requires a 0W-20 synthetic motor oil that meets API SN/SN Plus or SP and ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) standards. The typical capacity with a filter is about 3.4 quarts. Honda Genuine 0W-20 is a safe choice, but any reputable brand that meets the listed specifications is acceptable. Always consult your owner’s manual for your exact model year and follow the recommended change intervals, which are usually guided by Honda’s maintenance minder system. Regular, properly spec’d oil changes help maintain performance, efficiency, and engine health for the Civic Si.
