What oil is best for an Acura MDX?

The best oil for most Acura MDX models is a full synthetic 0W-20 oil that meets ILSAC GF-6 standards. Always confirm the exact specification for your year and engine in the owner's manual.

In this article, we break down the reasoning behind the recommendation, note how oil requirements can vary by engine and year, discuss how to choose a brand, and cover maintenance intervals to keep the MDX running smoothly.

Oil type by MDX model and year

Because the MDX has evolved through multiple generations and engine options, the central requirement remains synthetic 0W-20 for most current engines, with occasional exceptions noted by the manufacturer. The following guide highlights common practice, but always verify with your specific model.

• 0W-20 synthetic: standard recommendation for most current MDX engines, typically meeting ILSAC GF-6 and API SN or newer.


• 5W-20 or 5W-30: potential alternatives only if explicitly called for in your owner's manual or by a dealer for particular climates, mileage conditions, or engine variants.


• Conventional or synthetic-blend oils: generally not preferred unless the manual allows due to warranty or special conditions.

In short, for the vast majority of MDX ownership scenarios, 0W-20 synthetic is the safest, most broadly approved choice. Always check the exact specification printed in your manual or on the oil filler cap before purchase.

Special cases: MDX Type S and performance variants

Performance-oriented versions of the MDX, such as the Type S, have their own oil-spec considerations. The Type S uses a higher-performance engine and may have different viscosity requirements depending on the model year and regional specifications. Always consult the owner’s manual or a Acura dealership for the exact oil specification for your Type S, and consider a premium synthetic that meets the stated GF-6/API requirements if you routinely push the vehicle or operate it in demanding conditions.

Brand, quality and where to buy

Choosing a reputable brand that delivers true synthetic 0W-20 with GF-6 certification helps ensure your MDX protection and performance. The key is to match viscosity and certification rather than chasing a brand name alone.

• Mobil 1 0W-20 Full Synthetic


• Castrol EDGE 0W-20 (GF-6 rated)


• Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 0W-20


• Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0W-20

Regardless of brand, verify that the product is labeled as 0W-20 and clearly states GF-6 (or GF-6A/B) certification and API SN or newer. Using a trusted, up-to-date product helps maintain warranty coverage and engine cleanliness.

Oil-change intervals and maintenance tips

MDX models with synthetic oil typically follow longer intervals than older conventional oil vehicles, but driving conditions greatly influence timing. The vehicle’s Maintenance Minder system provides personalized guidance based on real-time driving data.

• Normal driving with synthetic oil: roughly 7,500–10,000 miles (12,000–16,000 km) or as indicated by the Maintenance Minder.


• Severe service or extreme climates (extremely hot, cold, tow-haul, frequent short trips): sooner changes, typically around 3,750–5,000 miles (6,000–8,000 km).


• Always reset the oil-life monitor after completing an oil change and keep service receipts for warranty purposes.

In addition to the oil itself, use an appropriate oil filter and ensure the fill level is checked when the engine is cold. Store oil in a cool, dry place and dispose of used oil responsibly at a recycling facility.

Summary

For most Acura MDX models, the recommended oil is a high-quality synthetic 0W-20 that meets ILSAC GF-6 standards, with exact specifications verified in the owner's manual. Choose a reputable brand and adhere to the maintenance Minder-driven intervals, adjusting for your climate and driving habits. When in doubt, consult your dealer to confirm the precise oil specification for your year and engine variant.

Does Acura use full synthetic oil?

Acura recommends using Acura Genuine Motor Oil, sold and available at Acura dealers. If Acura Genuine Motor Oil is not used, conventional motor oil of a premium-grade or an ultimate full synthetic blend may be used and must contain the specified viscosity grade indicated in your Owner's Manual.

What year to stay away from Acura MDX?

You should generally avoid the 2001, 2003, 2004, 2010, and 2014 Acura MDX models due to recurring issues with their transmissions and other systems. Additionally, some 2016–2020 models with the 9-speed transmission had shift issues. Years to consider for better reliability are 2007–2009 and 2017 and later. 
Years to avoid

• 2001, 2003, 2004: These years are frequently mentioned for transmission problems. 
• 2010: This year is cited for transmission issues and potential oil burning problems. 
• 2014: Cited for transmission problems and user-unfriendly infotainment systems. 
• 2016–2020: Models from this range, especially those with the 9-speed transmission, can have shifting issues. 

Years to consider

• 2007–2009: These are noted as being among the more reliable models in the second generation. 
• 2017 and later: These models are generally considered more reliable, with improved technology and performance. 
• 2022 and newer: The new generation is showing positive early reliability and has an improved 10-speed transmission. 

What is the best oil for Acura MDX?

The best oil for an Acura MDX depends on the model year, but generally, newer models (post-2011) require 0W-20 full synthetic oil, while older models (pre-2011) use 5W-20 synthetic or conventional oil. Regardless of the year, using a full synthetic oil is recommended for the best performance, and any oil used must be API certified and meet the specifications for your specific MDX. 
For modern Acura MDX models (typically 2011 and newer) 

• Oil Type: 0W-20 full synthetic 
• Why full synthetic: It provides better engine protection, is more chemically stable, and is more suitable for newer, high-performance engines, especially turbocharged ones. 
• Examples: Reputable brands like Mobil One, Castrol, and Valvoline offer 0W-20 full synthetic oils that are API certified and suitable for your MDX. 

For older Acura MDX models (typically before 2011) 

• Oil Type: 5W-20 
• Why 5W-20: This is the manufacturer's recommendation for these model years. 
• Type: A full synthetic or synthetic blend will work, but full synthetic provides better protection. 
• Examples: Look for 5W-20 synthetic oil from a trusted brand like Pennzoil or Valvoline, as long as it meets the API certification requirements. 

Important considerations for all models

• Check your owner's manual: This is the most critical step to confirm the exact oil requirements for your specific model and year, especially if you have a specific engine or trim. 
• API certification: Always ensure the oil you purchase is API certified to guarantee it meets industry quality standards for high-quality engine oil. 

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.