What Kind of Oil Does a 2016 Honda Take?

Most 2016 Honda passenger cars and SUVs are designed to use SAE 0W-20 full-synthetic engine oil that meets API SP (or older API SN) and ILSAC GF-6A (or older GF-5) standards. Check your oil filler cap and owner’s manual to confirm the exact requirement for your specific model and engine.

The Factory Spec, Explained

For the 2016 model year, Honda engineered nearly all of its mainstream U.S. cars and crossovers—Civic, Accord, CR-V, HR-V, Fit, Pilot, and Odyssey—to run on low-viscosity 0W-20 oil. This lightweight oil improves cold starts, maintains protection under normal operating temperatures, and helps deliver the fuel economy Honda tuned these engines for.

While API SN/GF-5 was the prevailing certification in 2016, today’s API SP and ILSAC GF-6A oils are backward compatible and add improved protection against low-speed pre-ignition and timing-chain wear. In other words, a modern 0W-20 that lists API SP and GF-6A is not just acceptable—it’s preferred.

Model-by-Model Overview

If you drive a mainstream 2016 Honda car or SUV in North America, chances are it calls for the same oil grade. Here’s a quick reference by model to help you verify the expected specification before you buy:

• Civic (2.0L and 1.5L turbo): SAE 0W-20
• Accord (2.4L I4 and 3.5L V6): SAE 0W-20
• CR-V (2.4L I4): SAE 0W-20
• HR-V (1.8L I4): SAE 0W-20
• Fit (1.5L I4): SAE 0W-20
• Pilot (3.5L V6): SAE 0W-20
• Odyssey (3.5L V6): SAE 0W-20

Engine variants and regional models can differ, so always confirm on the oil cap or in the owner’s manual. Performance variants in some markets may specify different viscosities.

What to Look For on the Oil Bottle

Beyond viscosity, the certifications printed on the bottle matter. Use this checklist to ensure the oil meets Honda’s performance standards for 2016 engines:

• Viscosity: SAE 0W-20
• API certification: API SP (or API SN/SN Plus) “Donut” on the back label
• ILSAC certification: GF-6A “Certification Mark” (backward-compatible with GF-5)
• Type: Full synthetic (most 0W-20 oils are full synthetic)

If the bottle shows 0W-20 with API SP (or SN) and ILSAC GF-6A (or GF-5), you’re choosing an oil that aligns with Honda’s requirements for 2016 models.

If You Can’t Find 0W-20

Honda recommends sticking with 0W-20. If you’re in a pinch and only topping up, 5W-20 can be used temporarily; return to 0W-20 at the next oil change. Mixing small amounts is generally acceptable for an emergency top-off, but consistent use of the specified 0W-20 provides the best protection and efficiency.

Oil Change Intervals and the Maintenance Minder

Most 2016 Hondas use the on-board Maintenance Minder to determine oil life based on driving conditions. Expect typical intervals of about 7,500–10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving. In severe conditions—short trips, extreme temperatures, heavy idling—shorter intervals are prudent. Change the oil and filter when the Maintenance Minder shows 15% oil life or sooner if advised by your driving pattern.

How to Double-Check for Your Exact Vehicle

If you want to be absolutely certain about the correct oil for your 2016 Honda, follow these quick verification steps:

• Inspect the oil filler cap: Many Honda caps are embossed with “0W-20.”
• Consult the owner’s manual: See the “Specifications” or “Maintenance” section.
• Use Honda’s online manual: Visit the Honda Owners site and select your VIN/model.
• Call a Honda dealer service department: Provide your VIN for precise guidance.

These steps remove any guesswork, especially for trims with different engines or for vehicles originally sold in other markets.

Special Cases: Motorcycles and Power Equipment

If you meant a 2016 Honda motorcycle or Honda Power Equipment (lawnmower, generator), the oil requirements differ from Honda automobiles. Many Honda motorcycles specify JASO MA/MA2-rated motorcycle oils (often 10W-30 or 10W-40), and many Honda power products call for 10W-30 meeting API SJ or later. Always refer to the specific product’s manual.

Summary

For a 2016 Honda car or SUV, use SAE 0W-20 full-synthetic oil meeting API SP (or SN) and ILSAC GF-6A (or GF-5). Verify on your oil cap or in the owner’s manual, follow the Maintenance Minder for intervals, and reserve 5W-20 only for emergency top-offs before returning to 0W-20 at your next change.

What type of oil does a 2016 Honda Accord take?

The 2016 Honda Accord requires a 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil. The specific amount of oil needed depends on the engine type, but a common guideline for a 4-cylinder engine is around 4.4 quarts, while V6 engines may require slightly more. Always check your owner’s manual for precise specifications and to confirm the correct oil type for your vehicle.
 
Key details:

• Oil Type: . Opens in new tab0W-20 synthetic oil is recommended for its performance and protection in your Accord’s engine. 
• Engine Size: . Opens in new tabA 4-cylinder engine typically uses about 4.4 quarts. A V6 engine might require a bit more, so consult your owner’s manual for the exact capacity. 
• Oil Filter: . Opens in new tabIt is recommended to replace the oil filter at the same time as you change the oil. 

Can a Honda take 5W-30 oil?

You’ll be just fine running any quality full synthetic 5w30.

Do Hondas need synthetic oil?

Most Hondas from the last decade require synthetic oil due to its high durability and engine protection properties.

What oil does a Honda 2016 take?

For a 2016 Honda, the recommended oil type is 0W-20 full synthetic. This applies to most Honda models, including the Accord, Civic, and CR-V. It’s best to verify this with your specific vehicle’s owner’s manual or by checking the oil filler cap. 
Here’s why 0W-20 is recommended:

• Fuel Efficiency: 0W-20 oil is designed to reduce friction, which can improve fuel economy. 
• Engine Protection: It provides good lubrication and protection, especially in cold temperatures, according to engine experts. 
• Honda’s Recommendation: Honda specifically recommends 0W-20 oil for many of their vehicles, including those from 2016, according to Honda dealerships. 

When selecting your oil:

• Full Synthetic: Full synthetic oil is generally preferred for its superior performance and longer lifespan compared to conventional oil. 
• Consider High Mileage Options: If your vehicle has high mileage (over 75,000 miles), you might consider a high mileage full synthetic oil, which can help with seal conditioning and reduce oil consumption. 
• Check Your Manual: Always consult your owner’s manual or the oil filler cap for the most accurate oil specifications for your specific vehicle.