What oil does Acura recommend?
Most current Acura models rely on synthetic 0W-20 engine oil as the standard recommendation, but the exact grade can vary by model and year. Check your owner's manual or the engine oil fill cap to confirm the precise specification for your vehicle.
General guidance for Acura engines
Acura’s guidance centers on using synthetic oil that meets or exceeds current API standards and Honda/Acura specifications. This approach helps optimize performance, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity across its lineup.
Before listing typical guidance, it’s important to note that exact requirements can differ by engine and year. The information below reflects common practice for many modern Acuras, but always verify for your specific vehicle.
- Use a synthetic engine oil, with 0W-20 being the standard viscosity for most current Acura engines.
- Choose oil that meets current API standards and is labeled as Honda/Acura approved or meets the OEM’s specified specification.
- Prefer Acura Genuine Motor Oil or another reputable brand that matches the required viscosity and meets the required specification.
Following these guidelines helps ensure proper lubrication, cold-start protection, and optimal engine performance across typical driving conditions.
Model-specific notes and exceptions
While 0W-20 synthetic is widely recommended, some engines, trims, or climates may call for alternatives. Always refer to the manual for your exact model-year guidance.
Note: The following notes highlight common exceptions and considerations you may encounter when selecting oil for specific Acura configurations.
- Some turbocharged or performance variants and certain model-year updates may specify a different viscosity or engine oil specification. Always check the exact requirement for your powertrain.
- Extreme cold or hot climates can influence viscosity recommendations. In such cases, the manual may indicate a different grade, or you may receive guidance from your dealer.
- Older Acura models or hybrid/electric-adjacent configurations can have unique lubrication guidelines. Verify the recommended oil type and change interval for your year and trim.
These notes emphasize the importance of confirming the precise oil specification for your individual vehicle, rather than relying solely on general guidance.
How to verify the exact oil requirement for your car
To be certain you’re using the right oil, follow these steps. The goal is to locate the official grade and specification that apply to your specific vehicle.
Where to look for the official specification
Start with the most authoritative sources: the owner’s manual, the oil cap on the engine, and the Acura Owner's Portal. The manual will list the exact viscosity (for example, 0W-20) and any Honda/Acura specification that must be met. The oil cap itself often indicates the recommended grade, serving as a quick reference during a topping-off.
If you’re buying oil at a shop or dealership, ask for Acura Genuine Motor Oil or an approved brand that explicitly meets the model-year specification. When in doubt, your local Acura dealer can confirm the correct grade for your specific vehicle.
Summary
For most modern Acura vehicles, synthetic 0W-20 is the recommended engine oil, with the exact specification verified in your owner’s manual or on the engine oil cap. Always confirm the precise grade and OEM specification for your model-year, as there can be exceptions based on engine type, climate, and driving conditions. Following the official guidance helps maintain performance, efficiency, and engine health over time.
Summary: The standard Acura recommendation centers on synthetic 0W-20 oil for most current models, but the precise requirement should be confirmed via the owner’s manual or dealership to account for any model-year variations or special conditions.
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 is the best oil for an Acura TLX?
The best oil for an Acura TLX is 0W-20 full synthetic oil with the API Certification Seal. Reputable brands like Mobil 1, Castrol, and Valvoline are highly recommended, as is Genuine Acura Motor Oil. You can use synthetic oil if it meets the API Certification Seal and the specified viscosity grade.
Key recommendations
- Viscosity: Use 0W-20 full synthetic oil.
- Certification: Ensure the oil has the API Certification Seal.
- Brands: Popular and recommended brands include Mobil 1, Castrol, Valvoline, and Genuine Acura Motor Oil.
- Switching to synthetic: You can switch to synthetic oil from a conventional one, provided it meets the API Certification Seal and viscosity grade requirements.
- Oil change intervals: Your oil change interval will remain the same, even if you switch to synthetic oil.
Important considerations
- Owner's Manual: Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate and specific recommendations for your vehicle's model year and engine.
- Turbocharged engines: For turbocharged engines, synthetic oil is particularly beneficial for protection against high temperatures and deposit buildup.
- Consistent quality: Using a reputable brand and consistently changing the oil at the recommended intervals is crucial for engine longevity.
Is Mobil 1 good for Acura?
Choose Mobil 1™ motor oil for your Acura
As a bonus, it also lists automatic transmission fluid, gear oil, and other fluids if there's a match. Always consult your owner's manual for info specific to your vehicle.
What kind of oil does a 3.6 L V6 take?
A 3.6L V6 engine typically takes either 0W-20 or 5W-20 full synthetic oil, depending on the vehicle's year and manufacturer. Some older models or specific driving conditions might recommend 5W-30, but you should always consult your owner's manual for the specific viscosity and oil type recommended for your exact vehicle.
Oil type by vehicle age
- Newer vehicles: Many newer models, especially those with tighter engine tolerances, specify 0W-20 full synthetic oil.
- Older vehicles: Older models may specify 5W-20, which can also be a good option.
Choosing the right oil
- Check your owner's manual: Always check your vehicle's owner's manual for the precise oil specification. This is the most accurate source of information.
- Consider climate and driving conditions:
- 0W-20 and 5W-20: These are standard for most modern vehicles to improve fuel efficiency and provide good cold-weather protection.
- 5W-30: Some manufacturers state that 5W-30 can be used in certain situations, like hot climates or under severe duty conditions.
- Full synthetic: While conventional oil may be an option, full synthetic oil is often recommended for better protection and potentially longer change intervals.
