How much oil does a 2008 Honda Pilot take?

A 2008 Honda Pilot takes 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) of engine oil when you replace the oil filter, or about 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) without a filter change. Honda originally specifies SAE 5W-20 oil meeting the latest API standards. After refilling, verify the level on the dipstick and top up as needed.

Official capacity and recommended oil

The 2008 Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 (J35) engine has a relatively modest sump size, so filling to the proper level is important. Honda’s factory guidance prioritizes 5W-20 for fuel economy and cold-start protection, and the capacities differ slightly depending on whether the filter is changed.

The following points summarize the key specifications you’ll need when changing or checking the oil on a 2008 Honda Pilot.

• Capacity with filter change: 4.5 US qt (4.3 L)
• Capacity without filter change: 4.2 US qt (4.0 L)
• Recommended viscosity: SAE 5W-20 (API SP or later/ILSAC equivalent)
• Drain bolt torque: 29 lb-ft (39 N·m) with a new 14 mm crush washer
• Oil filter: Genuine Honda or quality equivalent (use the latest superseding part for the J-series V6)

Sticking to these specs ensures proper lubrication, optimal fuel economy, and helps prevent overfilling or oil starvation.

How to refill correctly

Because small differences in draining and filter replacement can affect how much oil the engine actually needs, use the dipstick to confirm the level rather than relying solely on the capacity figure.

1. Warm the engine briefly, then shut it off and safely drain the oil.
2. Replace the crush washer and torque the drain bolt to 29 lb-ft.
3. Install a new oil filter; lightly oil the gasket and hand-tighten 3/4 turn after the gasket contacts the base.
4. Add about 4.3–4.4 quarts if you changed the filter (or ~4.0 quarts without a filter change).
5. Start the engine, check for leaks, then shut off and wait a couple of minutes.
6. Check the dipstick on level ground, topping up in small increments to reach the upper mark (total typically ends at 4.5 quarts with filter).

This approach accounts for real-world variation and helps you avoid overfilling, which can aerate the oil and harm the catalytic converter.

Oil type nuances and climate considerations

Honda specified 5W-20 for the 2008 model year. Many modern full-synthetic 5W-20 oils exceed the original performance requirements and are suitable year-round in most climates. Some dealers may approve 0W-20 in place of 5W-20 based on updated service guidance, but you should confirm with your owner’s manual or a Honda service advisor before switching viscosities.

Service intervals and monitoring

If your Pilot has the Maintenance Minder, follow its oil life percentage prompts, which account for driving conditions. Otherwise, a 5,000–7,500-mile interval with a quality oil and filter is typical for mixed driving, but shorter intervals are wise for frequent towing, short trips, or extreme temperatures.

Summary

The 2008 Honda Pilot holds 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) of oil with a filter change and roughly 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) without. Use API-certified 5W-20, torque the drain bolt to 29 lb-ft with a new crush washer, and verify the final level on the dipstick after refilling.

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 L V6 hold?

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 much oil do I need for a Honda Pilot?

The oil capacity for a Honda Pilot is approximately 5.7 quarts (5.4 L) with a filter change for many models. However, the specific capacity can vary by model year, so it’s essential to check your owner’s manual or the vehicle’s specific specifications. After adding the correct amount, run the engine briefly and then re-check the oil level with the dipstick to ensure it’s within the proper range. 
To Find Your Exact Capacity:

1. 1. Check your owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for the correct oil capacity and oil type for your specific Honda Pilot model. 
2. 2. Consult a parts or service advisor: A dealership or auto parts store can provide the exact specifications for your year and model. 
3. 3. Use an online lookup tool: Websites like AMSOIL can help you find the correct information by entering your vehicle’s details. 

Important Considerations:

• Engine Oil Filter: The capacity listed often assumes you are replacing the oil filter along with the oil. 
• After a short drive: Always check the dipstick after the engine has been run for a short period and then turned off to allow the oil to settle into the oil pan. 
• Overfilling: Adding too much oil can cause issues, including blue smoke from the exhaust, so it’s better to underfill slightly and add more as needed, according to the dipstick.