2018 Honda Pilot 3.5L Oil Capacity

The 2018 Honda Pilot with the 3.5-liter V6 typically takes 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters) of engine oil when changing the oil and filter, and about 5.4 US quarts (5.1 liters) if you’re not replacing the filter. Honda specifies 0W-20 oil. Below is what that means for routine maintenance and how to fill accurately without overfilling.

Official Capacity and Recommended Oil

Honda’s published specifications for the third-generation Pilot provide a clear baseline for how much oil to add and which type to use for proper lubrication and fuel efficiency.

• Engine: 3.5L V6 (2018 Honda Pilot, all trims)
• Oil capacity with filter: 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters)
• Oil capacity without filter: about 5.4 US quarts (5.1 liters)
• Recommended viscosity: 0W-20 (Honda Genuine or equivalent, API-certified)

These figures cover a standard oil change. Always verify on the dipstick after filling, as small variations can occur from residual oil or filter brand differences.

How to Fill and Verify the Correct Level

To avoid underfilling or overfilling, follow a simple, repeatable process that accounts for oil settling and an accurate dipstick reading.

1. Warm the engine briefly, then shut it off and park on level ground.
2. Drain the oil completely and replace the filter (recommended at each change).
3. Add about 5.5 quarts of 0W-20 to start, then wait a minute for oil to settle.
4. Start the engine for 30–60 seconds to fill the new filter, then shut it off and wait 2–3 minutes.
5. Check the dipstick, wiping and rechecking for accuracy. Top off in small increments to reach near the upper mark—usually ending at roughly 5.7 quarts total with a new filter.
6. Inspect for leaks, reinstall the dipstick and oil cap, and dispose of used oil properly.

Filling gradually and verifying on the dipstick is the best safeguard against overfilling, which can cause aeration and performance issues.

Helpful Notes and Common Questions

A few practical pointers can help you get consistent results and prolong engine health.

• Don’t overfill: Too much oil can lead to foaming, rough running, or catalyst damage over time.
• Stick with 0W-20: That’s Honda’s spec for optimal cold-start protection and efficiency.
• Replace the crush washer on the drain plug each service to ensure a proper seal.
• Use the Maintenance Minder to time changes; reset it after service so intervals remain accurate.
• If capacity seems off, rely on the dipstick reading; residual oil and different filter sizes can slightly affect how much you need.

Following these tips helps keep the Pilot’s V6 performing as intended while avoiding common service pitfalls.

Summary

The 2018 Honda Pilot 3.5L takes 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters) of 0W-20 oil with a filter change, and about 5.4 quarts (5.1 liters) without. Add most of the capacity, run and recheck, then top off to the dipstick’s upper mark to ensure an accurate, safe fill.

How many quarts of oil does a 2018 Honda Pilot 3.5 L take?

How much oil does a 2018 Honda Pilot take? A 2018 Honda Pilot takes 5.4 quarts of oil.

What oil does a 2018 Honda Pilot use?

The recommended oil for a 2018 Honda Pilot is SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil with an API Certification seal on the container. Honda recommends full synthetic, but a synthetic-blend oil of the same viscosity can also be used. You will need about 5.7 quarts (5.1 to 5.4 liters) of oil and a new oil drain plug washer when performing an oil change. 
Key Details 

• Viscosity: SAE 0W-20.
• Type: Full synthetic or synthetic blend (part-synthetic).
• Certification: Look for the API Certification seal on the container.
• Capacity: Approximately 5.7 quarts (5.1 to 5.4 liters), including the oil filter.

Important Reminders

• Always check your owner’s manual for the most accurate and specific information for your vehicle. 
• Use a new washer on the oil drain plug each time you change the oil to prevent leaks. 
• When installing the oil filter, make sure to cover any holes in the subframe to prevent leaks into the engine area. 
• You can use a quality synthetic-blend oil, but full synthetic offers the highest level of protection. 

How many quarts of oil does a Honda 3.5 engine take?

The Honda 3.5L oil capacity typically ranges from 4.5 to 5.7 quarts (with filter), depending on the specific model and year of your vehicle. To confirm the exact capacity for your vehicle, always consult the owner’s manual or the information printed on the oil filler cap. 
How to Find Your Vehicle’s Specific Oil Capacity

1. Check the owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for your vehicle’s specific requirements. 
2. Look at the oil filler cap: The correct oil type (e.g., 0W-20) is usually printed on the cap itself. 
3. Use an online lookup tool: Websites like AMSOIL or your local auto parts store’s website can provide specific capacity information for your year and model.

General Oil Change Information 

• Oil Type: Use the viscosity grade recommended on the oil cap or in your owner’s manual.
• Filter: A new oil filter should be installed with each oil change.
• Oil Level: After adding the new oil, use the dipstick to check the level and ensure it is within the hatched area.
• Reset Oil Life Monitor: Don’t forget to reset the vehicle’s oil life monitor after the oil change is complete.

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.