What oil does a Honda Clarity take?
The Honda Clarity Plug‑In Hybrid uses 0W‑20 synthetic engine oil. The all‑electric Clarity and the hydrogen fuel‑cell Clarity do not require engine oil. Always check your specific model year and region in the owner's manual for exact specifications.
Honda Clarity Plug‑In Hybrid (PHEV) engine oil
The PHEV version uses a conventional gasoline engine alongside its electric motors, so it requires engine oil just like other Honda gasoline engines.
Before the list below, note the following oil details for the PHEV:
- Oil grade: 0W‑20 synthetic engine oil.
- Oil specification: meets API SN or higher and ILSAC GF‑5/GF‑6 standards.
- Oil usage: use the engine oil specified by Honda and follow the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual.
Bottom line: For the Clarity PHEV, use 0W‑20 synthetic engine oil and adhere to Honda’s recommended service intervals.
Honda Clarity Electric (BEV)
The all‑electric Clarity has no internal combustion engine, so there is no engine oil to change.
Before the list below, keep in mind these BEV oil notes:
- No engine oil required for the drivetrain.
- Maintenance focuses on fluids and systems unique to electric propulsion, such as coolant and brake fluid, plus periodic checks per the owner's manual.
Bottom line: There is no engine oil specification for the Clarity Electric; follow the manual for other routine fluid checks and service items.
Honda Clarity Fuel Cell (FCEV)
The hydrogen fuel‑cell Clarity does not rely on a traditional gasoline engine, so there is no engine oil to change.
Before the list below, consider these fuel‑cell specifics:
- No engine oil required for the fuel‑cell propulsion system.
- Maintenance emphasizes hydrogen‑system health, coolant, brake fluid, and other standard service items as outlined in the owner’s manual.
Bottom line: The Clarity Fuel Cell does not use engine oil; follow Honda’s guidance for the fuel‑cell system and related fluids.
Summary
In short, oil requirements vary by Clarity model. The Plug‑In Hybrid uses 0W‑20 synthetic engine oil, while both the Electric and Fuel‑Cell variants do not require engine oil. Always consult the specific owner’s manual for your year and region to confirm exact specifications and service intervals.
What kind of oil does a Honda Hybrid take?
Honda specifies SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil for both the gasoline and hybrid models. This low-viscosity oil enhances fuel efficiency by reducing internal friction within the engine while providing excellent lubrication in cold and high-temperature conditions.
Can I use 5W30 instead of 0W20 in my Honda?
You should stick with the recommended 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20 oil for your Honda, as using a thicker 5W−305 cap W minus 305𝑊−30 oil can reduce fuel economy and may cause increased wear over time. While it might not cause immediate damage, especially in warmer climates, it's not advisable to stray from the manufacturer's specification unless the owner's manual explicitly allows for it in certain conditions, like extreme heat or heavy use.
Potential impacts of using 5W−305 cap W minus 305𝑊−30
- Fuel economy: 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20 oil is designed to be more fuel-efficient. Using a thicker 5W−305 cap W minus 305𝑊−30 oil will likely decrease your miles per gallon (MPG).
- Engine wear: The recommended 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20 is selected for the specific engine design. Using a thicker oil can impede the flow of oil to crucial engine components, potentially leading to increased wear over the long term, particularly on cold starts.
- Engine efficiency: A thicker oil can reduce overall engine efficiency, and in some modern engines, it can affect the performance of parts designed for the thinner oil.
- Warranty: Using the wrong oil could potentially void your warranty, so it's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendation to avoid issues.
When using a different oil might be considered
- Owner's manual: Check your owner's manual to see if it lists 5W−305 cap W minus 305𝑊−30 as an acceptable alternative for specific conditions, such as very hot weather or if 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20 is unavailable.
- Extreme heat: In a very hot climate, some manuals might suggest a thicker oil like 5W−305 cap W minus 305𝑊−30 for heavy-duty use, such as towing. However, this is an exception, not the rule, and you should confirm it in your manual.
What kind of oil does a Honda Clarity take?
The Honda Clarity requires 0W-20 full synthetic engine oil. This is due to its 1.5L 4-cylinder engine, which benefits from the superior protection, efficiency, and stability that full synthetic oil provides, especially in a hybrid vehicle that cycles between electric and gas power.
- Oil type: 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil.
- Capacity: The Clarity typically holds about 3.53.53.5 quarts with a filter change, but always check your owner's manual to confirm the exact amount for your vehicle.
- Why full synthetic is recommended:
- Provides superior engine protection.
- Helps improve fuel efficiency.
- Supports longer intervals between oil changes.
- Handles the unique demands of a hybrid vehicle, including varied operating temperatures.
How much oil does a 2018 Honda Clarity 1.5 take?
The 2018 Honda Clarity 1.5L requires 3.5 quarts of oil with a filter change. It is essential to check the oil level after refilling to ensure it is correct. A recommended oil type is 0W-20 full synthetic.
- Capacity: 3.5 quarts (with filter)
- Type: 0W-20 full synthetic is recommended
- Important: Always check the dipstick after adding oil to confirm the correct level
