What oil is best for a Honda Civic?
The best oil for a Honda Civic is a high-quality synthetic motor oil that meets the manufacturer's recommended specifications. The specific oil type and viscosity grade will depend on the model year and engine of your Honda Civic.
Recommended Oil for Honda Civic
According to the Honda Civic owner's manual, the recommended oil for most Honda Civic models is a 0W-20 or 5W-20 synthetic motor oil that meets the Honda HTO-06 specification. This oil provides the optimal lubrication and protection for the engine in a Honda Civic.
- Oil Type: Synthetic motor oil
- Viscosity Grade: 0W-20 or 5W-20
- Specification: Honda HTO-06
It's important to use the recommended oil type and viscosity to ensure your Honda Civic's engine operates efficiently and to maintain the manufacturer's warranty.
Why Synthetic Oil is Recommended
Synthetic motor oils are recommended for Honda Civics because they provide several benefits over conventional mineral-based oils:
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Synthetic oils have a lower viscosity, which reduces engine drag and improves fuel economy.
- Enhanced Engine Protection: Synthetic oils maintain their lubricating properties better under high temperatures and pressures, providing superior engine protection.
- Longer Oil Change Intervals: Synthetic oils typically last longer before needing to be changed, reducing maintenance costs.
By using the recommended synthetic motor oil, you can help ensure your Honda Civic's engine runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Choosing the Right Oil Viscosity
The viscosity grade of the oil, indicated by the numbers like 0W-20 or 5W-20, is also important for Honda Civics. The viscosity refers to the oil's thickness and flow characteristics:
- 0W-20: This is a thinner, lower viscosity oil that flows more easily in cold temperatures, improving cold-weather starting and reducing engine wear.
- 5W-20: This is a slightly thicker oil that provides a good balance of flow and engine protection in a wide range of temperatures.
Honda generally recommends the 0W-20 viscosity for most Civic models, as it helps improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing engine protection.
Conclusion
In summary, the best oil for a Honda Civic is a high-quality synthetic motor oil that meets the Honda HTO-06 specification and has a viscosity grade of 0W-20 or 5W-20. Using the recommended oil will help ensure your Honda Civic's engine runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Which oil is best for a Honda Civic?
Honda says use 5W-20 viscosity oil with an API quality grade of at least SL. The newest quality grade is SN. 5W-30 oil won't hurt, nor is it likely to be better.
What engine oil goes in a Honda Civic?
Honda recommends using Genuine Honda Motor Oil 0W-20, approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and Honda.
What is the best oil for a 2017 Honda Civic?
The best oil for a 2017 Honda Civic is a 0W-20 full synthetic oil, which is what Honda recommends. You can use a high-quality full synthetic brand like Mobil 1 or Pennzoil Platinum, or the Genuine Honda Motor Oil. Regardless of the brand, ensure the oil meets the required specifications for viscosity and certification for your specific engine to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
Oil specifications
- Viscosity: 0W-20 is the recommended viscosity grade for most 2017 Honda Civic engines.
- Type: Full synthetic oil is highly recommended for its performance and efficiency benefits, and it's often what's available in the 0W-20 grade.
Why this oil is best
- Engineered for your car: Honda engineers specifically designed the 2017 Civic's engines to work best with this type of oil.
- Performance and efficiency: Using the correct oil helps ensure the engine performs at its best and maintains fuel efficiency.
- Protection: A high-quality full synthetic oil provides excellent protection against wear and tear.
Other considerations
- Check your owner's manual: Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate and model-specific information on recommended oil types and specifications.
- Brand vs. specifications: While many users trust brands like Mobil 1, Pennzoil, and Valvoline, the most crucial factor is that the oil meets the 0W-20 specification and certifications required by Honda.
- Oil dilution: If you have a 1.5T engine, driving habits can lead to fuel dilution. Regularly driving long enough for the engine to fully warm up can help burn off excess fuel that can collect in the crankcase.
Which oil does Honda recommend?
For Honda engine oil recommendations, always consult your owner's manual to find the specific type your vehicle needs, which is often a synthetic 0W-20 or 5W-20. American Honda recommends using their Genuine Honda Motor Oil when possible, and if not, using an aftermarket oil that meets specific certifications and has the correct API-certified "starburst" symbol. Using the correct oil ensures optimal engine performance, protection, and longevity.
Key recommendations
- Check your owner's manual: This is the most important step, as the required oil type can vary by model, year, and engine.
- Use Genuine Honda Motor Oil: American Honda recommends using their branded oil, which is designed, tested, and approved for their vehicles.
- Look for API certification: If using an aftermarket oil, ensure it carries the American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified "starburst" symbol. This certification guarantees superior performance in wear protection, sludge prevention, and extending the life of your emissions system.
- Follow viscosity recommendations: Common recommendations for many newer models include:
- 0W-20: A popular choice for modern Honda engines, especially in areas with variable weather.
- 5W-20: Used in some older models, often with a recommendation to top off with 0W-20 if available.
- 5W-30: Recommended for some older models, especially for use in areas where the temperature never goes below 20∘F20 raised to the composed with power cap F20∘𝐹 (-7∘Cnegative 7 raised to the composed with power cap C−7∘𝐶).
- Understand synthetic vs. conventional oil: Most newer Hondas are designed for full synthetic oil, which offers better durability, higher temperature resistance, and longer-lasting performance compared to conventional oil. Synthetic blends are also an option for some models.
