Choosing the right oil for your Honda Pilot can be a daunting task, especially with all the mixed recommendations and changing guidelines at different dealerships. For most Honda Pilot models, the recommended oil type is usually a synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Making sure we use the correct oil ensures the engine runs smoothly and lasts longer. It’s like giving our own car engine a nutrient-rich diet that keeps everything in top shape.
We’ve all been there – staring at the shelves filled with various oil brands and types, trying to decipher which one suits our Honda Pilot best. To make it easier, we can refer to our vehicle’s manual or trusted resources.
In our experience, switching to full synthetic oil offers better protection and performance, especially in different driving conditions. This makes synthetic oil a great choice for various Honda Pilot trims, from the early 2000s models to the latest 2024 version.
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What Oil Does A Honda Pilot Take
Choosing the right oil for our Honda Pilot is crucial. This ensures the engine runs smoothly and lasts longer. For most recent model years, including 2015, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, Honda recommends 0W-20 motor oil.
It’s essential to check that the oil has the API Certification Seal and is premium-grade.
Different trims and model years may have slight differences in oil capacity. Typically, a Honda Pilot with a 3.5L engine, like the J35Y6, has an oil capacity of around 4.5-5.1 quarts. 🛠️
Here’s a quick reference for oil types and capacities:
| Model Year | Engine | Oil Capacity |
| 2015 | 3.5L V6 | 5.1 qt (with filter) |
| 2018 | 3.5L V6 | 5.1 qt (with filter) |
| 2020 | 3.5L V6 | 5.1 qt (with filter) |
| 2021 | 3.5L V6 | 5.1 qt (with filter) |
It’s interesting to note that Honda says we can use synthetic oil with the same viscosity, 0W-20, if we prefer. This wouldn’t change the maintenance schedule, though. 🌡️
Whenever we check the oil ourselves, it’s a good idea to park on level ground and wait a few minutes after turning off the engine. This allows the oil to settle and gives an accurate reading on the dipstick. 🅿️
Factors To Consider When Choosing Oil
Choosing the right oil for your Honda Pilot is crucial. It extends the engine’s lifespan and ensures smooth operation. Let’s explore the key factors.
Climate
Climate plays a big role in oil choice. Viscosity is a measure of how thick or thin the oil is, and it changes with temperature.
In colder climates, 0W-20 oil is ideal. It flows easily in low temperatures, reducing engine wear during startup. For warmer areas, 5W-20 or 5W-30 oils are better. These maintain optimal thickness despite high heat, preventing engine damage.
Oil needs to combat the effects of extreme temperatures. For example, hot weather can thin the oil, leading to poor protection. Conversely, cold weather can make the oil too thick, making it hard for the engine to start.
Choosing the right oil based on climate ensures:
Quick startups and maximum protection.
Driving Conditions
How and where we drive affects the oil we need. Stop-and-go traffic, towing, and high-speed driving all create more stress on the engine.
For city driving with lots of stops, a high mileage oil like Valvoline Full Synthetic can be beneficial. It has seal conditioners to prevent leaks and offers superior wear protection.
For those who tow or drive long distances, oil with extra wear protection is crucial. Look for brands like Mobil 1 or Castrol that are well-regarded for their durability and ability to handle extreme conditions.
Regular maintenance is key. Changing the oil every 7,500 miles helps keep the engine running smoothly. Also, check other fluids such as transmission fluid and transfer case fluid to keep everything in top shape.
Whether we’re driving in intense heat or start-stop traffic, choosing the right oil helps protect the engine and keep our Honda Pilot running efficiently.
Types Of Oil Suitable For Honda Pilot
When choosing oil for a Honda Pilot, it’s essential to know the right types to ensure the engine runs smoothly. Let’s look at three suitable options: synthetic oil, conventional oil, and high-mileage oil.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is designed to last longer and protect better under extreme conditions. Brands like Mobil 1 offer full synthetic engine oil that provides excellent protection against wear and tear. Synthetic oils help keep the engine clean and reduce friction, making them a great fit for our Honda Pilot.
- Longer intervals between oil changes 🛠️
- Better performance in extreme temperatures 🌡️
- Enhanced engine protection 🔧
Most synthetic oils also carry the API Certification Seal, indicating they meet high standards for engine cleanliness and protection.
Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is the most common type used in cars. It’s more affordable than synthetic oil but needs to be changed more frequently. For our Honda Pilot, a premium-grade 0W-20 detergent oil is recommended.
When using conventional oil:
- Mobil 1 🅿️
- Pennzoil 🛠️
- Valvoline ⚙️
Though it might not offer the same longevity as synthetic oils, conventional oil is perfectly capable of keeping a Honda Pilot engine running smoothly with regular maintenance.
High-Mileage Oil
For older models of the Honda Pilot with over 75,000 miles, high-mileage oil is a smart choice. This type of oil includes special additives that help reduce oil burn-off and seal leaks, keeping the engine lubricated and performing well.
- Reduces oil consumption 🚗
- Prevents leaks and oil burn-off ⛽
- Improves overall engine performance 🏁
Brands such as Mobil 1 Extended Performance offer high-mileage oils that can extend the life of our older Honda Pilot.
Using the right type of oil helps in protecting the engine, enhancing performance, and ensuring the vehicle runs efficiently. Each type—synthetic, conventional, and high-mileage—has its unique benefits, making it critical to choose based on the vehicle’s specific needs.
How To Change The Oil In A Honda Pilot
Changing the oil in a Honda Pilot involves preparation, draining the old oil, and adding new oil. This ensures your engine stays in good health and runs smoothly. Let’s break it down step by step.
Preparation
First, let’s gather everything we’ll need. We need an oil filter, new oil, a 17 mm socket for the drain plug, an oil pan, and some gloves. The oil cap should be removed to allow the oil to drain more easily.
Get the Pilot on a flat surface and, ideally, on ramps or jack stands for better access underneath. Don’t forget to put on safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from spills.
Place the oil pan under the oil drain plug, ensuring it’s positioned to catch all the oil. This step minimizes the mess and makes the process smoother 🚗.
Draining The Old Oil
Loosen the oil drain plug using the 17 mm socket. Be careful, the oil can be hot! Once the plug is loose, remove it by hand and let the oil flow into the pan. This might take a few minutes.
Next, remove the old oil filter. It can be done by hand or with an oil filter wrench. Be ready for some more oil to come out. Once the flow stops, wipe the area clean with a rag.
After the old oil is fully drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely with the socket wrench. Install the new oil filter, making sure to lubricate the gasket with a bit of new oil 🛠️.
Adding New Oil
With the old oil drained and the filter replaced, it’s time to add the new oil. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and capacity. For most Honda Pilots, you’ll need about 5.8 quarts (5.5 liters).
Place a funnel in the oil fill hole to avoid spills, and pour the new oil in slowly ⛽. Once done, replace the oil cap. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
Turn off the engine and use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add more if necessary. Finally, inspect for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If everything looks good, you’re done! 🚨
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