What oil does a Honda CR-V use?

The oil you should use depends on the model year and engine. In most current CR-Vs, the recommended grade is 0W-20 full synthetic; older models often call for 5W-20 or 5W-30 depending on the year and climate. Always verify the exact specification from the owner's manual or the oil filler cap on your engine.

As Honda has updated engines across generations, the right oil can vary by trim, hybrid vs. gasoline variants, and regional guidelines. This article outlines the typical grades by generation, how to confirm the correct specification for your vehicle, and best practices for maintaining the oil system.

Oil grade and capacity by generation

Here is a concise guide to the oil grades most commonly used in Honda CR-V gasoline and hybrid models across different eras.

• Current-generation CR-V (gasoline and hybrid models, 2017–present): 0W-20 full synthetic oil. Capacity is typically about 3.7 quarts with a filter; change interval usually around every 7,500 miles under normal driving, or as specified in the owner's manual. Use Honda Genuine oil or an equivalent meeting API SP and ILSAC GF-6 specifications.


• Older gasoline CR-Vs (pre-2017, various engines such as 2.0L or 2.4L): commonly use 5W-20 or 5W-30, depending on year and climate. Capacity is generally around 4.0 quarts with filter; exact grade and amount should be confirmed in the owner's manual.

In short, the correct oil grade depends on the specific model year and engine. Always rely on the official guidance for your vehicle to avoid mis-specifying the oil.

Verifying the right oil for your CR-V

To confirm the exact oil specification for your VIN, check the following sources before a change.

• Oil filler cap: often stamped with the recommended viscosity (for example, 0W-20). If it’s hard to read, rely on the manual.


• Owner's manual: the definitive source for grade, capacity, and service interval for your year and engine.


• Under-hood labels or dealer maintenance records: some models include grade recommendations on stickers or in service history.

If you’re unsure, contact a Honda dealer or a certified automotive technician who can verify the exact specification for your vehicle.

Maintenance and best practices

Practical steps help keep your CR-V’s engine lubricated and performing well across conditions.

• Use the correct oil grade and API specification to protect engine performance and fuel efficiency.


• Choose a high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil that meets ILSAC GF-6 or GF-5 requirements as applicable to your model year.


• Follow the interval recommended in your manual, typically around every 7,500 miles for normal driving; more frequent changes may be advised for severe climates, heavy pulling, or short trips.


• Use a quality oil filter and replace the drain plug washer if required; torque to the specifications in the manual.

Regular monitoring of oil level and quality, along with timely changes, helps sustain engine reliability for CR-V owners across generations.

Summary

For most modern Honda CR-Vs, 0W-20 full synthetic oil is the standard recommendation, with older generations sometimes requiring 5W-20 or 5W-30. Always verify the exact grade and capacity for your vehicle in the owner's manual or on the oil cap, and consult a Honda service professional if in doubt. Adhering to the specified oil type and change interval supports engine longevity and optimal performance.

Is it ok if I put 5W20 instead of 0W20?

You can use 5W-20 instead of 0W-20, but check your owner's manual first, as 0W-20 is often recommended for newer, high-efficiency engines or for colder climates. While they are identical at operating temperature, 0W-20 provides better and faster lubrication during cold starts, which can improve fuel economy and reduce wear, especially in sub-freezing temperatures. In warm climates, the difference is negligible, but if your vehicle requires 0W-20, using 5W-20 could potentially cause issues with the oil pump, variable valve timing, or even void your warranty. 
When to use 5W-20 instead of 0W-20

• In warmer climates: If temperatures rarely drop below freezing, the slightly thicker viscosity of 5W-20 at cold starts will likely not be a problem. 
• For a top-off in an emergency: 5W-20 is an acceptable substitute for an emergency top-off if 0W-20 is not available. 

When to stick with 0W-20

• In cold climates: 0W-20 flows much more freely at very low temperatures, providing better lubrication and reducing wear on critical engine parts during cold starts. 
• For newer engines: Many modern engines, especially those with variable valve timing (VVT) or turbochargers, require the precise oil viscosity that 0W-20 provides. 
• To maintain warranty: Your owner's manual may specify 0W-20. Using a different oil could potentially affect your warranty coverage. 

Key takeaway
While the two oils are very similar in normal operating conditions, it is always best to use the oil recommended in your owner's manual. If you are in a cold climate or have a modern engine, 0W-20 is the safer choice.

What oil does Honda recommend for CRV?

The recommended oil for a Honda CR-V is synthetic 0W-20. Some models may also use 0W-30, but it is crucial to check your owner's manual or the oil filler cap for the specific recommendation for your year and engine. Synthetic oil is the preferred type due to its durability and performance, even in a wide range of temperatures. 
Oil type recommendations

• Primary recommendation: 0W-20 synthetic engine oil. 
• Alternative: 0W-30 is also sometimes suitable, but always verify with your owner's manual or oil cap. 
• API certification: Ensure the oil meets API standards and has the API Certification Mark. 

How to confirm the correct oil for your CR-V

• Owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle's needs. 
• Oil filler cap: The correct viscosity and type are often printed directly on the oil filler cap under the hood. 

Is the Honda CR-V 0W20 or 5W20?

Information

Accord	2003-2010 L4 & V6: 5W-20 (S/UFS), topped off with 0W-20 (UFS) 2011-2020 L4 & V6: 0W-20 (UFS) 2005-2007 Hybrid: 5W-20 (S/UFS) 2014-2020 Hybrid or Plug-in: 0W-20 (UFS)
Crosstour	2010-2015: 0W-20 (UFS)
CR-V	2003-2009: 5W-20 (S/UFS), topped off with 0W-20 (UFS) 2010-2020: 0W-20 (UFS)
CR-Z	2011-2016: 0W-20 (UFS)

Can I use 5W-30 on a Honda CR-V?

Using 5W-30 oil won't automatically void your warranty, but it may complicate warranty claims if oil-related engine problems occur. Honda specifies 0W-20 oil for optimal performance, and warranty coverage depends on following manufacturer recommendations.