How much oil does a 2012 2.4-liter engine take?
Most 2012-model 2.4-liter engines take between 4.4 and 5.5 U.S. quarts (roughly 4.2–5.2 liters) of oil with a new filter, but the exact capacity depends on the vehicle make, model, and engine variant. For example, many Honda/Acura 2.4L engines use about 4.4–4.6 quarts, GM’s 2.4L Ecotec typically takes 5.0 quarts, Hyundai/Kia’s 2.4L Theta II is about 5.1 quarts, and Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep 2.4L “World” engines are commonly 4.5 quarts.
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Why the answer varies
“2.4-liter” describes engine displacement, not the oil capacity of the engine and its lubrication system. Oil capacity changes with oil pan design, filter size, whether you replace the filter, and even model-specific accessories such as oil coolers. That’s why two different 2012 vehicles with 2.4L engines can legitimately require different amounts of oil.
Typical capacities by make and model
The following list summarizes commonly cited capacities for popular 2012 vehicles with 2.4-liter engines. Figures are for oil changes with a new filter installed; always verify against your owner’s manual or service data for your exact trim and engine code.
- Honda/Acura 2.4L (e.g., 2012 Accord, CR‑V, Acura TSX): about 4.4–4.6 qt (4.2–4.4 L)
- GM 2.4L Ecotec (e.g., 2012 Chevy Equinox, Malibu; GMC Terrain; Buick Regal/LaCrosse eAssist): 5.0 qt (≈4.7 L)
- Hyundai/Kia 2.4L Theta II (e.g., 2012 Sonata, Optima; some Santa Fe/Sorento trims): about 5.1 qt (≈4.8 L)
- Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep 2.4L “World”/ED3 (e.g., 2012 Chrysler 200; Dodge Avenger/Journey; Jeep Patriot/Compass): about 4.5 qt (≈4.3 L)
These benchmarks cover the majority of 2012 2.4L applications sold in North America. Edge cases—special performance variants, unique oil coolers, or market-specific models—can differ, so confirmation for your VIN is best practice.
How to confirm the correct capacity for your vehicle
If you don’t have the exact capacity at hand, you can verify it quickly using official sources and a simple fill-and-check method. Here’s a practical approach.
- Check the owner’s manual: Look for “Engine Oil Capacity” under Maintenance/Specifications; note values for “with filter” and “without filter.”
- Use a trusted database: OEM service sites or reputable parts catalogs (dealer portals) will list the capacity by engine code and model year.
- Perform a cautious fill: Add about 80–90% of the listed capacity after draining and replacing the filter, then check the dipstick.
- Top up to the full mark: Run the engine for 30–60 seconds, wait a couple of minutes, recheck the dipstick, and add oil in small increments to reach the full mark.
- Record the final amount: Note how much you actually used for next time; small variances are normal.
This method prevents overfilling and accounts for vehicle-to-vehicle differences, stuck oil in passages, or variations in filter size.
Viscosity and specification reminders
Capacity is only part of the equation—use the viscosity and specification your manufacturer requires. Many 2012 Hondas specify 0W‑20; GM 2.4L Ecotec engines commonly call for 5W‑30 meeting GM’s dexos1 spec; Hyundai/Kia 2.4L engines typically use 5W‑20 or 5W‑30 depending on climate and market; Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep 2.4L engines commonly specify 5W‑20. Always defer to the owner’s manual or the under-hood label for your exact vehicle.
Bottom line
Expect most 2012 2.4-liter engines to take around 4.4–5.5 quarts with a new filter. Common examples: Honda/Acura ~4.4–4.6 qt, GM Ecotec 5.0 qt, Hyundai/Kia ~5.1 qt, and Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep ~4.5 qt. Verify with your manual and use the dipstick to finalize the fill.
Summary
A 2012 2.4L engine’s oil capacity depends on the specific make, model, and engine variant. Typical capacities range from about 4.4 to 5.5 quarts with a filter, with Honda/Acura near 4.5 qt, GM at 5.0 qt, Hyundai/Kia around 5.1 qt, and Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep close to 4.5 qt. Confirm with your owner’s manual and top off using the dipstick to ensure an accurate fill.
How many quarts of oil does a 2.4 L engine need?
A 2.4-liter engine generally takes between 4.5 and 6 quarts of oil, but the exact amount varies significantly by vehicle make and model, so you must check your owner’s manual or consult a professional for the specific amount required.
Why the amount varies:
- Vehicle-Specific Design: Even with the same engine displacement (2.4L), different manufacturers design their engines differently, affecting the oil capacity.
- Year, Make, and Model: The specific year, make, and model of your vehicle are critical factors in determining the correct oil capacity.
- Oil Filter: The capacity also depends on whether you are changing the oil and oil filter at the same time.
How to find the correct amount for your car:
- 1. Check Your Owner’s Manual: This is the most reliable source for specific information about your vehicle’s oil capacity.
- 2. Consult an Auto Parts Store or Dealership: An expert at a local auto parts store or dealership can look up the correct oil amount for your specific vehicle.
- 3. Use Online Resources: Websites like AMSOIL allow you to look up oil specifications by your car’s details.
What kind of oil does a Chrysler 200 take in 2012?
STP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-20 5 Quart.
How many quarts of oil does a 2012 Honda Accord 2.4 L take?
The 2012 Honda Accord with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine requires 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) of oil with a filter change, and the recommended oil viscosity is SAE 0W-20. After adding the oil, you should check the level with the dipstick to ensure it is within the normal range.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Oil Type: Use SAE 0W-20 motor oil.
- Capacity: Add 4.2 quarts of oil when changing the oil and filter.
- Check Level: After filling, wait a few minutes and then check the oil level using the dipstick to confirm it’s full.
How many quarts of oil does a 2012 Chevy Equinox 2.4 L take?
The 2012 Chevy Equinox with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine takes 5 quarts (4.7 liters) of engine oil, including the oil filter. After refilling, always check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is correct for your specific vehicle.
Steps to Check Oil Level:
- Warm up the engine: Start the car and let it run for a few minutes to warm the oil.
- Turn off the engine: Park on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Locate the dipstick: Find the engine oil dipstick, which is often a bright yellow or orange handle.
- Remove and wipe the dipstick: Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a cloth.
- Re-insert and check: Insert the dipstick fully, then pull it out again.
- Confirm level: The oil level should be between the two hash marks or dots on the dipstick, indicating the full line.
- Add oil if necessary: If the level is below the full line, add the required oil slowly, re-checking the level after each addition.