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What oil is recommended for a 2013 Honda Accord V6?

The 2013 Honda Accord V6 typically requires 5W-20 engine oil that meets API SN or newer (ILSAC GF-5); use Honda Genuine Motor Oil or an equivalent, and plan to replace about 5.5 quarts with the filter.


In this article, we explain the official oil guidance for the 3.5-liter V6 in the 2013 Accord, including the recommended viscosity, necessary specifications, oil capacity, and practical tips for selecting oil and performing changes. Always refer to the owner’s manual and your maintenance minder for climate-specific guidance.


Viscosity, specifications, and oil type


Key standards to follow when selecting oil for the 3.5L V6 are listed below.



  • Viscosity: 5W-20 is the standard recommendation for the 2013 Accord V6 in most climates.

  • Specifications: API SN or newer; ILSAC GF-5 or newer.

  • Oil type: Honda Genuine Motor Oil or an equivalent that meets the above viscosity and specifications.

  • Oil capacity: Approximately 5.5 quarts with a filter (varies slightly by exact engine configuration and filter type).


In short, these criteria ensure proper lubrication, fuel efficiency, and engine protection for the V6 powerplant.


Practical notes on maintenance and intervals


Follow Honda’s maintenance minder for oil-change intervals, as they can vary with driving conditions and oil type. If you choose synthetic oil, many owners experience longer intervals between changes, while conventional oil may require more frequent changes. Always replace the oil filter at each oil change and use a filter that meets OEM standards.


Oil filter and climate considerations


Use a high-quality oil filter (preferably OEM or equivalent) at every oil change, and consider climate-related adjustments—extreme heat, cold, or heavy driving conditions can influence change timing and oil selection.


Branding and additives


Stick to brands that clearly meet the API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 specifications. If you’re unsure, consult a Honda service advisor or refer to the owner’s manual for approved product lists.


Summary


For a 2013 Honda Accord V6, the recommended oil is 5W-20 engine oil that meets API SN or newer (ILSAC GF-5), with Honda Genuine Motor Oil or an equivalent, and an approximate capacity of 5.5 quarts with a filter. Always verify specifications and intervals against your owner’s manual and maintenance minder, especially for special driving conditions or climates.

What kind of oil does a Honda Accord v6 take?


The recommended Honda Accord oil is generally a synthetic 0W-20 formula.



Can I put 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 on a Honda Accord?


You can likely use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 in your Honda Accord, but you should check your owner's manual first, as the recommended oil can vary by model year and engine. Using a slightly thicker oil is sometimes done for older or high-mileage engines, but it may slightly decrease fuel economy, as the lighter 5W-20 is often specified for better efficiency. 
Potential effects of using 5W-30

  • Fuel economy: Thicker oil requires more energy to pump, which can lead to a slight reduction in gas mileage. 
  • Engine performance: Engineers design engines for specific oil viscosities. Sticking to the recommended 5W-20 ensures optimal performance and protection according to the manufacturer's specifications. 
  • Engine wear: In some cases, using a heavier oil in a high-mileage engine might be beneficial, especially if you're experiencing oil consumption issues. Some mechanics recommend a 5W-30 in older Honda engines to help with this, but it can also increase engine friction if the engine wasn't designed for it. 

What to do
  • Check your owner's manual: The most important step is to consult your car's owner's manual for the exact oil viscosity recommendation for your specific model and engine. 
  • Consult a mechanic: If you're concerned about your engine's performance or have a high-mileage vehicle, a mechanic can provide advice tailored to your car's condition. 



How many quarts does a Honda Accord V6 take?


The oil capacity for a Honda Accord V6 is typically around 4.5 quarts when replacing the filter, though this can vary slightly by model year. For example, a 2017 V6 needs 4.5 quarts with a filter change, while a 2009 V6 also uses 4.5 quarts with a filter. Always check your owner's manual for the specific recommendation for your vehicle, and verify the level with the dipstick after refilling. 

  • 2017 Accord V6: 4.5 quarts (with filter)
  • 2009 Accord V6: 4.5 quarts (with filter)
  • 2000 Accord V6: 4.6 quarts (with filter)
  • 2003 Accord V6: 4.6 quarts (with filter)



What kind of oil does my 2013 Honda Accord V6 take?


The recommended oil for a 2013 Honda Accord V6 is 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil. The engine requires approximately 4.5 quarts of oil when changing the filter, and it's best to use a full synthetic or synthetic-blend oil for optimal performance and protection.
 
Oil type and viscosity

  • Viscosity: 0W-20 is the recommended viscosity for your engine.
  • Type: Use a full synthetic or synthetic-blend oil. 

Oil capacity
  • With filter change: Approximately 4.5 quarts.
  • Without filter change: Approximately 4.2 quarts. 

What to use
  • Recommended: A full synthetic 0W-20 oil, such as Mobil 1 Extended Performance or Castrol EDGE, is a great option. 
  • For high-mileage engines: If your vehicle has over 75,000 miles, a high-mileage 0W-20 oil may provide additional benefits like enhanced cleaning and wear protection. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.