What kind of oil does a 2003 Honda CR‑V take?

The 2003 Honda CR‑V is designed for SAE 5W‑20 engine oil that meets API “SJ” or newer specifications (SL/SM/SN/SP), and it holds about 4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) with a new filter. Conventional or full‑synthetic 5W‑20 both meet the requirement; 5W‑20 remains the factory‑specified grade for this model year, with 0W‑20 acceptable only for very cold climates or temporary top‑offs.

Official recommendation and specifications

Honda engineered the 2003 CR‑V’s 2.4‑liter K24 engine around a specific viscosity and certification to balance cold‑start protection, fuel economy, and wear. The points below summarize what Honda specifies and what modern oils deliver today.

• Viscosity grade: SAE 5W‑20 (factory specification for 2003 CR‑V).
• Certification: API Service SJ or later; modern oils labeled SL/SM/SN/SP are backward compatible and suitable.
• Type: Conventional or full synthetic is acceptable as long as it meets the viscosity and API spec.
• ILSAC “starburst”/“shield”: Oils showing current ILSAC certification (e.g., GF‑6) are appropriate and backward compatible.

Using an oil that matches both the viscosity and certification is more important than brand. Full‑synthetic 5W‑20 can offer better high‑temperature stability and deposit control while fully meeting Honda’s original spec.

Capacity, related hardware, and service notes

When changing oil, capacity and torque matter for proper sealing and to avoid damage. The following figures apply to the 2003 CR‑V’s 2.4L K‑series engine.

• Oil capacity with filter change: ~4.4 US qt (4.2 L).
• Oil capacity without filter change: ~4.1 US qt (3.9 L).
• Drain plug torque: 29 lb‑ft (39 N·m).
• Oil filter: Genuine Honda filter (commonly 15400‑PLM‑A02 or current supersession) or a quality equivalent; tighten per filter maker’s instructions (typically 3/4 turn after gasket contact or ~9 lb‑ft/12 N·m).
• Crush washer: Replace the 14 mm drain plug washer at each service to prevent seepage.

Always check the dipstick after filling, then recheck for leaks and level after a short run. Minor capacity differences can occur with different filters and drain times, so use the dipstick as the final arbiter.

Climate and acceptable alternatives

Viscosity choices can be influenced by ambient temperatures. While 5W‑20 is the official grade, Honda provides limited flexibility for extreme conditions or temporary use.

• Cold climates (well below 0°F/−18°C): 0W‑20 can improve cold starts and is generally acceptable; switch back to 5W‑20 at the next change if you want to adhere strictly to the factory spec.
• If 5W‑20 is unavailable: 10W‑30 may be used temporarily; replace with 5W‑20 at the next oil change.
• High‑mileage engines: A high‑mileage 5W‑20 (with seal conditioners) can be beneficial if minor seepage or consumption is present.

These alternatives are about practicality in edge cases. For most drivers and climates, staying with 5W‑20 year‑round is the simplest and most consistent choice.

Maintenance interval guidance

While the question centers on oil type, intervals help ensure the oil actually delivers the protection it’s designed for. The 2003 CR‑V predates Honda’s Maintenance Minder and uses time/mileage schedules.

• Normal service: Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe service (frequent short trips, extreme temps, dusty roads, towing, extended idling): Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months.

If your driving fits several “severe” conditions, use the shorter interval. Always monitor oil level between changes, especially on older engines.

Bottom line

Use a quality SAE 5W‑20 oil with current API certification and change about 4.4 quarts with the filter. Full synthetic is fine, and 0W‑20 is a reasonable cold‑weather or top‑off alternative, but 5W‑20 remains the correct spec for the 2003 Honda CR‑V.

Summary

The 2003 Honda CR‑V takes SAE 5W‑20 engine oil meeting API SJ or newer standards, with an approximate capacity of 4.4 quarts when replacing the filter. Synthetic or conventional oil may be used. Stick to 5W‑20 for best adherence to Honda’s specification, consider 0W‑20 only for very cold climates or temporary top‑offs, and follow normal or severe service intervals based on your driving conditions.

Can I use 5W-30 on a Honda CR-V?

You can use 5W-30 engine oil in your Honda CR-V as long as this is the correct oil to use for your vehicle according to manufacturer instructions. Honda recommends you use the oil suggested for your model to maintain optimum performance.

What oil does a Honda CR-V 2003 need?

STP High Mileage Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-20 1 Quart.

What kind of oil is recommended for a Honda CR-V?

The experts agree that the only types of oil suitable for the Honda CR-V engine is 0W-20 and 0W-30 oil. On top of this recommended CR-V oil type, we strongly suggest that you use synthetic oil.

What kind of oil does a 2003 Honda take?

Notes: Full synthetic. 5W-20. 1 quart.