How Much Oil a V6 Honda Pilot Takes

Most V6 Honda Pilots take between 4.5 and 5.7 US quarts of engine oil with a filter change, depending on the model year. Newer, 2023-and-later models use about 5.7 quarts, 2016–2022 models use about 5.4 quarts, and earlier generations generally use about 4.5 quarts. Specifics by year are detailed below, along with oil grade recommendations and quick checks to ensure the correct fill.

Why the Capacity Varies

The Honda Pilot has used several iterations of the 3.5-liter V6 (J35 series). Changes in engine design—such as switching from SOHC to DOHC architecture and updates to oil passages and filters—affect the amount of oil required. That’s why capacity differs across generations even though displacement remains 3.5 liters.

Oil Capacity by Generation and Year

The following breakdown groups V6 Pilot models by generation to make it easy to find your capacity. Always measure on the dipstick after filling, as a completely drained engine versus a routine oil change can differ slightly.

• 2003–2008 (1st gen, 3.5L J35A): Approximately 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
• 2009–2015 (2nd gen, 3.5L J35Z): Approximately 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
• 2016–2022 (3rd gen, 3.5L J35Y direct-injection): Approximately 5.4 US quarts (5.1 liters) with filter
• 2023–present (4th gen, 3.5L DOHC V6): Approximately 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters) with filter

If you’re between model years, have a trim with tow package or an oil cooler, or are replacing an empty engine, verify the level with the dipstick after filling the listed amount; you may need a small top-off to reach the upper mark.

Recommended Oil Type

Honda specifies different oil viscosities over the years to improve efficiency and protection. Using the correct oil grade helps maintain performance and fuel economy while protecting the engine.

• 2003–2010: 5W‑20 (Honda Genuine or API-certified equivalent)
• 2011–present: 0W‑20 (Honda Genuine or API/SP, ILSAC GF‑6 compliant)

If you drive in extreme climates or tow frequently, stick with the Honda recommendation unless your owner’s manual provides an approved alternative. Synthetic 0W‑20 is standard on late-model Pilots.

How to Fill Correctly

To avoid overfilling or underfilling, follow a simple, consistent process whenever you change oil. This helps ensure accurate readings and proper engine protection.

1. Warm the engine briefly, then shut it off and drain oil completely; replace the filter.
2. Add the model-appropriate initial amount (see capacities above).
3. Start the engine for 30–60 seconds to fill the filter and galleries; shut off and wait 2–3 minutes.
4. Check the dipstick on level ground; top up in small increments until it reaches the upper mark.
5. Re-check after the first drive; add a small amount if needed.

This routine minimizes guesswork. The dipstick is the final authority since minor variances in draining and filters can change the exact amount required.

Common Signs of Incorrect Oil Level

Being able to recognize symptoms of overfill or underfill can prevent damage and help you correct issues promptly.

• Underfilled: Ticking/valvetrain noise, oil pressure light flicker, higher engine temps
• Overfilled: Foamy oil on dipstick, rough idle, smoke from exhaust, oil leaks

If you observe these symptoms after an oil change, stop driving and re-check the level to prevent engine damage.

Bottom Line

Capacity depends on the year: about 4.5 quarts for 2003–2015, about 5.4 quarts for 2016–2022, and about 5.7 quarts for 2023–present, all with filter changes. Use the correct oil grade (0W‑20 for most modern Pilots) and confirm on the dipstick after filling.

Summary

A V6 Honda Pilot typically takes 4.5–5.7 US quarts of oil with a filter change, varying by generation: 4.5 quarts (2003–2015), 5.4 quarts (2016–2022), and 5.7 quarts (2023–present). Use the specified 0W‑20 for recent models, verify with the dipstick after filling, and adjust as needed for precise levels.

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 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 for a 2011 Honda Pilot?

4.5 quarts
Your 2011 Honda Pilot has an oil capacity of 4.5 quarts or 4.3 liters. When getting an oil change, Honda recommends using a premium-grade 5W-20 detergent oil for year-round protection and easy cold weather starting.

How much oil does a 4.0 L V6 take?

Engine Oil
5 quarts (with filter).