How much oil a 3.5L V6 Honda engine takes

Most 3.5L Honda V6 engines take either about 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) or about 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters) of oil with a new filter, depending on the engine generation and model year. Earlier J35 engines typically use around 4.5 qt, while newer “Earth Dreams” 3.5L V6s (2016-on for most trucks/vans, and 2018-on for Odyssey) take about 5.7 qt. Always confirm in your owner’s manual for your exact vehicle and year.

Why capacity varies on Honda’s 3.5L V6

Honda’s 3.5L V6 belongs to the J35 family, used across Accord V6 (select years), Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline, Passport, and related Acura models. Mid-2010s updates (the “Earth Dreams” generation) brought internal changes that increased oil capacity. Another factor is whether you replace the oil filter: capacities are typically about 0.3–0.4 qt (0.3–0.4 L) less if you do not change the filter.

Typical with/without filter amounts

To help set expectations, here are the common capacities you’ll encounter across the J35 family when performing routine maintenance.

• Most pre-2015/2016 J35 V6 (older Pilot, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Accord V6): about 4.5 qt (4.3 L) with filter; roughly 4.2 qt (4.0 L) without filter.
• Most 2016–present “Earth Dreams” J35 V6 (Pilot, Passport, Ridgeline; 2018–present Odyssey): about 5.7 qt (5.4 L) with filter; roughly 5.4 qt (5.1 L) without filter.

These figures reflect common U.S.-market specs and are accurate for most trims; however, small differences can exist by model year and market. Always verify for your specific VIN.

Quick reference by popular Honda models

The list below provides widely cited capacities for common Honda vehicles using the 3.5L V6, grouped by generation. Figures are for a change with a new filter unless noted.

• Pilot
  

  • 2009–2015 (J35Z-series): about 4.5 qt (4.3 L)
  • 2016–2022 (J35Y6) and 2023–2025 DOHC 3.5L: about 5.7 qt (5.4 L)

• Ridgeline
  

  • 2006–2014 (J35Z-series): about 4.5 qt (4.3 L)
  • 2017–2025 (J35Y6/J35Y8 family): about 5.7 qt (5.4 L)

• Odyssey
  

  • 2005–2017 (J35A/J35Z): about 4.5 qt (4.3 L)
  • 2018–2025 (J35Y6): about 5.7 qt (5.4 L)

• Accord V6
  

  • 2008–2012 (J35Z2): about 4.5 qt (4.3 L)
  • 2013–2017 (J35Y1): typically about 4.5 qt (4.3 L)

• Passport
  

  • 2019–2025 (shares 3.5L with Pilot/Ridgeline): about 5.7 qt (5.4 L)

These values align with Honda service specs for U.S. models and mirror what dealers use during routine oil changes. If you’re outside North America, capacities may be listed in liters and could vary slightly.

How to be certain for your exact vehicle

Because trim, market, and minor year-to-year updates can affect the listed capacity, follow the steps below to confirm the correct amount for your specific 3.5L Honda V6.

1. Check the owner’s manual or under-hood emissions/maintenance labels for the oil capacity specification.
2. Look up your model/year on Honda’s official service information site or a trusted service database using your VIN.
3. If the manual provides a range (with vs. without filter), start by adding slightly less than the “with filter” amount, then top off to the dipstick’s upper mark after running the engine and letting it sit a few minutes.
4. Use the recommended oil grade (most newer 3.5L Hondas specify 0W-20; older ones often 5W-20), and replace the crush washer on the drain plug.

Following this approach ensures you fill to the correct level for your exact engine, not just a general J35 specification.

Key details to remember

Oil capacity can differ by a half-quart or more between older and newer 3.5L Honda V6 engines, and the filter change matters. It’s normal to add, run, and then fine-tune the level. Overfilling is harmful, so aim for the dipstick’s upper mark, not beyond.

Summary

A 3.5L Honda V6 typically takes about 4.5 qt (4.3 L) with a new filter on older J35 engines and about 5.7 qt (5.4 L) on newer “Earth Dreams” versions used in recent Pilot, Passport, Ridgeline, and Odyssey models. Verify in your owner’s manual for your exact year and trim, and adjust based on whether you replace the filter.

What kind of oil does a 2008 Honda Accord 3.5 V6 take?

For a 2008 Honda Accord 3.5L V6, the recommended oil type is 5W-20. Both conventional and synthetic 5W-20 oil can be used, but synthetic oil is recommended, especially for drivers in colder climates as it flows better at low temperatures, according to CarParts.com.

How many quarts of oil does a Honda 3.5 V6 take?

The oil capacity for a Honda 3.5L V6 engine varies by model year, but it’s typically around 4.2 to 5.7 quarts (4.0 to 5.4 liters) when including the oil filter replacement, with specific amounts for models like the 2021 Pilot needing 5.7 quarts and older models possibly needing less. Always check the oil fill cap, your vehicle’s owner’s manual, or the AMSOIL lookup tool for your specific Honda model to confirm the correct capacity and oil type (like 0W-20).
 
How to find your exact oil capacity:

1. 1. Check the oil fill cap: The recommended oil type and viscosity are often indicated on the cap itself. 
2. 2. Consult the owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle’s oil type, viscosity, and capacity. 
3. 3. Use an online lookup tool: Websites like AMSOIL allow you to enter your vehicle’s year, make, and model to find the correct specifications. 

General guidelines for a 3.5L V6:

• Capacity: Most Honda 3.5L V6 engines require between 4.2 to 5.7 quarts of oil when replacing the oil filter, so you should always add about 4.5 quarts and check the dipstick before adding more. 
• Oil type: A 0W-20 synthetic oil is commonly recommended for newer models. 
• Filter replacement: Always replace the oil filter when changing the oil to ensure proper lubrication. 
• Check the dipstick: After filling, run the engine for a short time, then turn it off and check the oil level on the dipstick. The level should be within the hatched area on the dipstick. 

How much oil does a 3.5 L V6 need?

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 does a 2017 Honda Accord 3.5 V6 take?

The 2017 Honda Accord 3.5L engine requires 4.5 quarts of 0W-20 motor oil when changing the oil with a filter. It’s important to pour in this amount, then check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is in the proper range, and add more if needed, rather than filling it all the way to the maximum. 
For a 2017 Honda Accord 3.5L V6:

1. Oil Type: 0W-20 
2. Oil Capacity: 4.5 quarts with a filter change 
3. Procedure:
   • Drain the old oil and remove the old oil filter. 
   • Install a new oil filter. 
   • Add approximately 4.5 quarts of new 0W-20 oil. 
   • Start the engine for about 30 seconds, then turn it off. 
   • Check the dipstick and add more oil until the level is between the minimum and maximum marks. 
   • Re-check for leaks and ensure the engine is level.