Loading

What type of oil does Acura MDX use?

The Acura MDX generally uses 0W-20 synthetic motor oil. The exact grade can vary by engine and model year, so you should confirm with the owner’s manual or the oil fill cap on your vehicle.


Oil Type Across MDX Generations


Below is a concise guide to the typical oil viscosity you’ll encounter on common MDX powertrains. Always verify with official documentation for your exact year and trim.



  • 0W-20 synthetic oil is the standard specification for most MDX engines, including recent V6 configurations, to optimize cold-start performance and fuel efficiency.

  • Some models, such as certain hybrids and high-performance variants, may require the same grade or a closely related viscosity; consult the owner’s manual or your dealer for any exceptions or climate-related adjustments.


In addition to viscosity, Acura specifies full synthetic oil for most MDX applications to ensure protection and long-term reliability. For extreme temperatures, follow the climate-specific recommendations in your manual or consult a service advisor.


Bottom line: for most MDX owners, expect 0W-20 synthetic oil as the standard grade, and always verify with the manual or the oil cap to confirm the exact specification for your engine and region.


How to Verify the Exact Oil Grade for Your MDX


To confirm the correct oil specification for your vehicle, follow these steps:



  1. Check the owner's manual page that lists engine oil specifications for your model year.

  2. Look on the engine oil fill cap, which often indicates the recommended viscosity (for example, 0W-20).

  3. Check the maintenance minder or service reminder after an oil change, which may display the required viscosity if it was recorded by the service team.

  4. If in doubt, contact an Acura dealer or a trusted technician with your vehicle identification number (VIN) for a precise specification.


Using the correct grade helps protect the engine and maintain warranty coverage.


Year-Specific Notes


Current generation (2022–present)


In the current MDX generation, Acura continues to specify 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil for the standard V6 engine across most markets; always verify via the manual or the engine cap for any regional differences.


Earlier generations


Earlier MDX models (through the 2013–2020 era) also used 0W-20 for most configurations. Some climates or older maintenance practices may have allowed 5W-20, but modern manuals strongly favor 0W-20; verify for your exact year and trim.


Summary


Across most Acura MDX models, the recommended oil is 0W-20 synthetic. The exact grade and requirements can vary by year, trim, and market, so consult your owner's manual or the fill cap to confirm before an oil change. Regularly using the specified oil helps maintain performance, efficiency, and warranty coverage.

What kind of oil does a 2018 Acura MDX take?


STP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 0W-20 5 Quart.



How much oil does a 3.0 L 6 cylinder take?


A 3.0L V6 engine typically takes between 4.5 and 6.5 quarts of oil, but the exact amount depends on the specific vehicle make and model. For example, a 2006 Ford Fusion 3.0L V6 requires 6 quarts, while a 2001 Jaguar S-Type 3.0L V6 needs 6.5 quarts. Always check your vehicle's owner's manual for the precise capacity and oil viscosity requirements. 

Vehicle Oil Capacity
2012 Ford Escape 3.0L V6 6 quarts
2006 Ford Fusion 3.0L V6 6 quarts
2003 Ford Ranger 3.0L V6 4.5 quarts
2001 Jaguar S-Type 3.0L V6 6.5 quarts
(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_ndclaYPYMNCmi-gP3Y2k6QU_186';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();



Which engine oil is best for an Acura MDX?


What is the recommended Acura MDX oil type? The suggested Acura MDX oil type can vary depending on your specific model. However, most Acura MDX models after the 2011 model year will use 0W-20 oil, while Acura MDX models before 2011 will use 5W-20 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.


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.