What Kind of Oil a 2016 Hyundai Azera Takes

The 2016 Hyundai Azera is specified to use SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 engine oil that meets or exceeds API Service SM (or higher) and ILSAC GF-4 (or higher) standards, with most owners and dealers typically using full-synthetic oil for best performance and protection. This choice of oil supports the Azera’s 3.3‑liter V6 engine in delivering smooth power, good fuel economy and long-term reliability when changed at the recommended intervals.

Official Oil Specifications for the 2016 Hyundai Azera

For owners trying to match exactly what Hyundai engineers intended, the most important information is in the 2016 Azera owner’s manual. While brands can vary, the weight (viscosity) and service rating are non-negotiable for protecting the engine.

The key factory oil specifications for a 2016 Hyundai Azera are:

• Viscosity: SAE 5W-20 or SAE 5W-30 (both are approved, with 5W-20 commonly recommended in North America for efficiency)
• Type: High-quality engine oil, typically full-synthetic or synthetic blend
• API rating: API Service SM, SN or higher (later classifications such as SN Plus or SP are also acceptable and backwards-compatible)
• ILSAC standard: ILSAC GF-4 or higher (GF-5 and GF-6 are updated standards and are suitable replacements)
• Engine: 3.3-liter V6 (Lambda II) gasoline engine

Sticking to these specifications ensures the oil has the right flow characteristics and additive package to handle heat, deposits and wear inside the Azera’s V6 engine, regardless of which reputable brand you choose.

Understanding 5W-20 vs 5W-30 in the Azera

The 2016 Azera can use either 5W-20 or 5W-30, but the difference between them matters depending on climate and driving style. Both oils behave similarly in cold starts (the “5W” part), but differ in thickness at operating temperature.

The main contrasts between 5W-20 and 5W-30 for this vehicle are:

• 5W-20: Slightly thinner at operating temperature, favored for marginally better fuel economy and often listed as the primary recommendation in U.S. manuals.
• 5W-30: Slightly thicker when hot, which can offer a bit more protection in very high temperatures or under heavy loads, such as frequent highway driving in hot climates.
• Cold-start performance: Both are “5W” oils, meaning similar low-temperature flow and start-up protection.
• Warranty and specs: As long as the oil meets Hyundai’s API and ILSAC requirements, either viscosity is considered acceptable under normal conditions.

For most Azera owners in moderate climates, 5W-20 full synthetic is the common choice, while 5W-30 may be preferred in consistently hot regions or for drivers who regularly stress the engine with long, high-speed runs.

Conventional, Synthetic Blend, or Full Synthetic?

Although the manual historically allowed quality conventional oil, today most service departments and independent shops put the 2016 Hyundai Azera firmly in the full-synthetic category due to modern standards and long-drain intervals.

The oil type options can be broken down as follows:

• Conventional oil: Meets basic specs but offers less resistance to breakdown at high temperatures and shorter service life; fewer shops recommend it for late-model V6 engines.
• Synthetic blend: A mix of conventional and synthetic; can be a budget compromise, providing better protection than conventional while costing less than full synthetic.
• Full synthetic: Superior stability, better protection against deposits and sludge, improved performance in temperature extremes, and typically the best match for modern service intervals and driving demands.

In practice, full-synthetic 5W-20 or 5W-30 that meets Hyundai’s API and ILSAC requirements is the most future-proof and widely recommended choice for preserving the Azera’s engine over high mileage.

Recommended Oil Change Intervals

The right oil only does its job when changed at appropriate intervals. Hyundai’s schedule distinguishes between normal and severe driving conditions, and many Azera owners fall into the “severe” category without realizing it.

Typical guidelines for a 2016 Hyundai Azera are:

• Normal service: Around 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, when most driving is steady highway and moderate climate.
• Severe service: Around 3,750–5,000 miles (6,000–8,000 km), if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, short trips, dusty areas or spend long periods idling.
• Oil filter: Replace the oil filter at every oil change, regardless of interval length or oil type used.
• Monitoring: Check the oil level at least once a month and before long trips, topping off with the same oil type and viscosity if needed.

While full synthetic can technically last longer, following Hyundai’s severe-service guidelines is a conservative way to safeguard the Azera’s V6, particularly as the vehicle ages and accumulates mileage.

Oil Capacity and Practical Service Tips

Knowing how much oil the Azera takes and how to verify the right product can prevent common maintenance mistakes. This is particularly important for DIY owners topping up or changing oil at home.

Key practical details for the 2016 Hyundai Azera include:

• Oil capacity (approximate): About 5.5–6.0 quarts (5.2–5.7 liters) with filter change, depending on exact engine variant and drain time; always verify via dipstick.
• Label check: Look for “SAE 5W-20” or “SAE 5W-30,” “API SN” (or SP) and “Resource Conserving” or ILSAC starburst mark on the bottle.
• Brand choice: Major brands such as Hyundai Genuine, Mobil 1, Castrol, Valvoline, Pennzoil and others produce oils that meet or exceed the needed specifications.
• Top-offs: Whenever possible, use the same viscosity and type (e.g., full synthetic 5W-20) already in the engine to maintain consistent performance.

Because minor capacity differences can exist between trims and regional versions, the dipstick remains the final authority: after filling to the estimated capacity, start the engine briefly, then shut it off, wait a few minutes and confirm the level is between the “L” and “F” (or “Min” and “Max”) marks.

Why Following the Specification Matters

Modern V6 engines like the Azera’s Lambda II are engineered with tight tolerances and specific oil flow requirements. Using the wrong viscosity or a substandard oil rating can accelerate wear, reduce efficiency and, in extreme cases, contribute to engine damage.

The main reasons to adhere strictly to the specified oil include:

• Wear protection: Correct viscosity keeps a stable film between moving parts, especially at high temperatures and RPM.
• Fuel efficiency: Thinner, approved oils such as 5W-20 help reduce internal drag, supporting the Azera’s fuel economy ratings.
• Cleanliness: Modern API and ILSAC-rated oils contain detergents and dispersants that prevent sludge and varnish formation.
• Longevity: Regular use of quality synthetic oil paired with timely changes can significantly extend the life of timing components, valve train and bearings.

For a vehicle like the 2016 Azera, often kept for the long haul as a comfortable highway sedan, maintaining oil quality and specifications is one of the most cost-effective ways to preserve value and reliability.

Summary

The 2016 Hyundai Azera is designed to run on SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 engine oil that meets API SM/SN (or newer) and ILSAC GF-4 (or newer) standards, with full-synthetic formulations widely regarded as the best choice for protection and modern service intervals. Most owners in typical North American climates will be well served by full-synthetic 5W-20, changed every 5,000–7,500 miles depending on driving conditions and always accompanied by a new oil filter. Checking labels for the correct viscosity and ratings, verifying the level by dipstick and respecting Hyundai’s maintenance schedule together ensure the Azera’s 3.3‑liter V6 continues to deliver smooth, dependable performance for years to come.

What type of oil does a Hyundai Azera take?

The Hyundai Azera requires either 5W-20 or 5W-30 motor oil, depending on the model year. For a 2009 model, 5W-20 is preferred, while 5W-30 is recommended for models from 2012-2017. It is best to use a fully synthetic oil to ensure the best performance and protection. 
Oil type by model year

• 2006: 5W-20
• 2007: 5W-20
• 2009: 5W-20 is preferred
• 2012–2017: 5W-30 

Choosing the right oil

• Full synthetic: This is the recommended type for the best performance and protection. 
• High-mileage oil: If your car has over 75,000 miles, you can consider using a high-mileage oil, which is designed to help older engines with leaks and seals. 
• Conventional oil: While some models can use conventional oil, full synthetic is generally the better choice. 

Other considerations

• Oil capacity: The capacity varies by model. For example, the 2009 Azera takes 5.5 quarts with a filter, while the 2017 model takes 6 quarts with a filter. 
• Oil filter: Always remember to change the oil filter with the oil.
• Consult your owner’s manual: For the most accurate information, always check your specific owner’s manual. 

Can I use 5W-30 instead of 5W20 in my Hyundai?

Yes, you can likely use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20, as many Hyundai models are compatible with both, but you should always check your owner’s manual first for the definitive recommendation. Using 5W-30 may result in slightly lower fuel economy and can be better for engine longevity in older, higher-mileage engines, while 5W-20 is optimized for fuel efficiency. 
Before you make the switch

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most important step, as it will have the exact specification for your specific engine and vehicle. The engine oil cap may also have this information printed on it. 
• Consider the benefits:
  • 5W-20: Offers better fuel economy because it is a thinner oil, which reduces friction. 
  • 5W-30: Can provide better protection, especially in older or high-mileage engines where internal parts may be slightly looser. It may also run quieter. 

Potential downsides of using 5W-30

• Reduced fuel economy: The thicker oil requires the engine to work slightly harder, which can decrease your miles per gallon. 
• Slightly poorer cold starts: The oil may not flow as easily when the engine is cold, although the difference is minor with a 5W viscosity rating. 
• Engine drag: Some users report that the engine feels less responsive with the thicker oil. 

Final recommendation

• For optimal performance and fuel efficiency, stick with the manufacturer’s recommendation of 5W-20 if your manual specifies it. 
• If your manual lists both 5W-20 and 5W-30 as acceptable options, either will work, and the choice depends on whether you prioritize fuel economy or slightly more protection. 
• If you’ve accidentally put 5W-30 in a car that calls for 5W-20, it’s generally not an emergency, but you should use the correct 5W-20 oil at your next oil change. 

What oil should I use for the Hyundai 2016?

The oil type for a 2016 Hyundai depends on the model and engine, but it is most commonly 5W-20 or 5W-30. It is crucial to consult your owner’s manual to confirm the exact weight and specifications for your specific vehicle. 

• For most Sonata models: The 2.4L engine often calls for 5W-30, while the 2.0T engine requires 5W-30 full synthetic (ACEA A5 or above). The 2.4L engine has a capacity of about 4.8 quarts. 
• For most Elantra models: A 5W-20 is generally recommended for best fuel economy, though 5W-30 is also a common option for other models and conditions. 
• For the Accent: Some models may specify 5W-20, while others allow for 5W-30, 10W-30, or 15W-40 depending on the temperature. 
• General advice: Always choose an oil that meets the American Petroleum Institute (API) certification requirements, as noted in your owner’s manual. Using synthetic oil is often recommended for better performance and protection, especially in extreme temperatures. 

How much oil does a 2016 Hyundai Azera take?

The 2016 Hyundai Azera has an oil capacity of 6 quarts with a filter change. This capacity is for the 3.3L V6 engine and it is recommended to use SAE 5W-30 motor oil. 

• Oil capacity: 6 quarts (5.7 L) including the oil filter
• Recommended oil viscosity: SAE 5W-30
• Note: Always check the dipstick after refilling to ensure the correct level.