How Many Quarts of Oil Does a V6 Honda Pilot Take?

Most V6 Honda Pilots take between 4.5 and 5.7 US quarts of oil with a new filter. In general, 2003–2015 models use about 4.5 quarts, while 2016–2025 models use about 5.7 quarts. Always verify with the owner’s manual and the dipstick after filling, as slight variations can occur by year and engine variant.

Capacities by Generation (with filter)

The oil capacity on the Honda Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 has changed over time as Honda updated the engine. The list below breaks down typical capacities by generation and model years, using the amount needed when replacing both oil and filter.

• 2003–2008 (1st gen, 3.5L V6): approximately 4.5 US qt (about 4.3 L)
• 2009–2015 (2nd gen, 3.5L V6): approximately 4.5 US qt (about 4.3 L)
• 2016–2022 (3rd gen, 3.5L V6 “Earth Dreams”): approximately 5.7 US qt (about 5.4 L)
• 2023–2025 (4th gen, 3.5L V6): approximately 5.7 US qt (about 5.4 L)

If you are not changing the filter, the engine typically takes about 0.2–0.3 quart less. After refilling, run the engine briefly, wait a few minutes, then recheck the dipstick on level ground and top off as needed to reach the upper mark.

Recommended Oil Types and Key Service Notes

Using the correct oil grade and following basic service practices helps ensure proper engine protection and longevity. The points below summarize Honda’s common recommendations for the Pilot’s V6 across generations.

• Oil viscosity: Many earlier Pilots (especially 2003–2010) originally specified 5W-20; Honda later standardized on 0W-20 full-synthetic for most V6 applications. For 2011 and newer—and all 2016+ models—0W-20 full synthetic is typically specified. When in doubt, use the viscosity listed on your oil cap and in your owner’s manual.
• Filter: Use a quality filter that meets OEM specifications. Replacing the crush washer on the drain plug at each change is recommended.
• Drain plug torque: Typically around 29 lb-ft (39 N·m) for many Honda V6 engines. Confirm in your model-year manual.
• Intervals: Follow the Maintenance Minder on newer models or the manual’s interval if your vehicle does not have a minder.

Choosing the correct viscosity and a quality filter, and tightening the drain plug to spec, will help ensure clean operation and prevent leaks or under-lubrication.

How to Confirm Your Exact Capacity

While the figures above apply broadly, the best practice is to verify on your specific vehicle. The quick steps below can help you confirm the final fill level.

1. Consult the owner’s manual for your model year for the official capacity and oil grade.
2. Add about 90% of the listed capacity after draining and replacing the filter.
3. Start the engine for 30–60 seconds to circulate oil, then shut it off and wait 2–3 minutes.
4. Check the dipstick on level ground and add oil gradually until it reaches the upper mark.

This approach accounts for small variances between engines, filters, and residual oil, ensuring you don’t overfill.

Bottom Line

Expect about 4.5 quarts for 2003–2015 Pilots and about 5.7 quarts for 2016–2025 models when changing oil and filter. Verify the specification for your exact year and confirm by dipstick after filling.

Summary

A V6 Honda Pilot typically needs 4.5–5.7 US quarts of oil with a filter change. First- and second-generation models (2003–2015) use roughly 4.5 quarts; third- and fourth-generation models (2016–2025) use roughly 5.7 quarts. Use the oil grade specified in your manual (commonly 0W-20 on newer models), replace the crush washer, torque the drain plug properly, and confirm the level with the dipstick after filling.

How much oil does a 3.5 l V6 Honda Pilot take?

The oil capacity for a Honda Pilot with a 3.5L engine varies by model year, but a general range is around 5.2 to 5.8 quarts (5.0 to 5.5 liters) with a filter change. For example, the 2009-2015 models typically use about 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for a service fill, while newer models like the 2022-2025 Pilot use more, around 5.7 or 5.8 quarts. Always check the specific owner’s manual or the oil fill cap for your exact vehicle’s capacity and recommended viscosity, typically 0W-20.
 
Steps to find the exact capacity for your vehicle:

1. Check your owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for your vehicle’s specific requirements. 
2. Look at the oil fill cap: Many Honda models have the recommended oil viscosity and sometimes the capacity listed on the oil fill cap itself. 

Example capacities by model year (for a 3.5L engine with filter): 

• 2009-2015: Around 4.5 quarts (4.3 L).
• 2016-2022: Around 5.7 quarts (5.3 L).
• 2025: Approximately 5.8 US quarts (5.5 L).

How much oil does a 4.0 L V6 take?

Engine Oil
5 quarts (with filter).

How much oil does a 3.5 liter V6 engine take?

A 3.5L V6 engine does not have a single oil capacity; it varies significantly by vehicle make and model, ranging from approximately 4 quarts for some Chevy Impalas to over 6 quarts for Ford F-150s, while some Nissan and Honda engines require about 4.5 to 5.1 quarts. To find the exact oil amount for your 3.5L V6, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or check the oil fill cap, as this is the most accurate and reliable source of information. 
Examples of Oil Capacities by Make and Model

• Chevrolet Impala (3.5L V6): Requires around 4 to 5 quarts of oil. 
• Ford F-150 (3.5L V6): Some models, particularly EcoBoost engines, can take about 6 to 6.5 quarts of oil. 
• Honda Accord (3.5L V6): Requires approximately 4.5 quarts of oil. 
• Nissan Maxima (3.5L V6): Takes about 5.1 quarts of engine oil. 

How to Find Your Vehicle’s Specific Oil Capacity

1. 1. Check your owner’s manual: This is the most accurate and definitive source of information for your specific vehicle.
2. 2. Inspect the oil fill cap: Many manufacturers include the required oil type and sometimes the capacity directly on the oil fill cap itself. 
3. 3. Check the vehicle’s maintenance schedule: For the most accurate information, review your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the specific oil capacity and oil type recommended by the manufacturer. 

How many quarts of oil goes in a Honda Pilot?

5.7 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.