2021 Honda Pilot Oil: The Right Type, Viscosity, and Specs You Need
The 2021 Honda Pilot takes SAE 0W-20 engine oil—preferably full synthetic—that meets API SP (or SN/SN Plus) and ILSAC GF-6 standards; capacity is about 5.7 U.S. quarts (5.4 liters) with a new filter. This choice aligns with Honda’s factory recommendation for the 3.5-liter V6 and supports fuel efficiency, cold-start protection, and engine longevity.
Contents
Recommended Oil Type and Viscosity
Honda specifies 0W-20 for the 2021 Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6. Using a high-quality full-synthetic 0W-20 helps ensure optimum lubrication across temperatures, better deposit control, and improved protection under load. Honda Genuine Motor Oil 0W-20 is the OEM fill; any equivalent oil that meets the same specifications is acceptable.
Why 0W-20 Is Specified
Modern Honda V6 engines are engineered with tight tolerances and variable valve timing systems that benefit from lower-viscosity oil. A 0W-20 flows quickly at cold start (reducing wear) while maintaining sufficient film strength at operating temperature. It also contributes to the model’s EPA-rated fuel economy.
What to Look for on the Bottle
To ensure the oil you buy is compliant and safe for your 2021 Pilot, check the label for these certifications and markings. These indicators confirm the oil meets Honda’s performance baseline and current industry standards.
- Viscosity grade: SAE 0W-20
- API certification: SP (acceptable: SN Plus/SN if SP is unavailable)
- ILSAC rating: GF-6 (GF-5 is acceptable but older; GF-6 is current)
- API “Starburst” or “Shield” symbol indicating resource-conserving gasoline engine oil
- Full-synthetic formulation (strongly recommended for 0W-20)
If these items are present, the oil will meet or exceed Honda’s requirements for the Pilot. Newer API/ILSAC categories are backward compatible, so SP/GF-6 safely supersede older SN/GF-5 oils.
Capacity and Helpful Service Notes
Knowing how much oil your engine needs—and a few service basics—can help you avoid overfilling and ensure a leak-free change.
- Drain and refill with filter change: about 5.7 U.S. qt (5.4 L)
- Drain and refill without filter change: about 5.4 U.S. qt (5.1 L)
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (J35-series)
- Drain plug torque: approximately 29 lb-ft (39 N·m); replace the crush washer
- Oil filter installation: lightly oil the gasket and tighten per filter maker’s instructions (typically hand-tight plus 3/4 turn)
Always verify the final oil level on the dipstick after running the engine briefly and letting it sit a minute; top off as needed to reach the upper mark without exceeding it.
Oil Change Interval
The 2021 Pilot uses Honda’s Maintenance Minder to determine oil life based on driving conditions. Many owners see oil change prompts between roughly 7,500 and 10,000 miles or about 12 months, but your display is the final authority.
Below are common factors that can shorten oil life and trigger earlier changes. Understanding them helps you anticipate service needs.
- Frequent short trips where the engine doesn’t fully warm up
- Extreme temperatures (very hot or very cold)
- Towing or carrying heavy loads
- Prolonged idling or stop-and-go driving
- Dusty or off-road conditions
If your driving matches several of these, consider more frequent changes or follow the Maintenance Minder closely. Reset the system after each oil service.
Trusted Brands That Meet Spec
While brand is less important than meeting the correct specs, the following oils are widely available and compliant with Honda’s requirements when purchased in 0W-20 and the appropriate API/ILSAC categories.
- Honda Genuine Motor Oil 0W-20
- Mobil 1 Full Synthetic 0W-20 (e.g., Extended Performance)
- Castrol EDGE or GTX Full Synthetic 0W-20
- Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 0W-20
- Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0W-20
- Quaker State Full Synthetic 0W-20
Choose the product that meets API SP and ILSAC GF-6 in 0W-20. Mixing brands in a pinch is acceptable, but it’s best to stick with one product line between changes for consistency.
Common Owner Questions
Can I use 5W-20 or 5W-30 instead?
Honda specifies 0W-20; using thicker grades can affect cold-start protection and fuel economy. Stick with 0W-20 unless a Honda service bulletin or your dealer advises otherwise for a specific circumstance.
Do I have to use Honda Genuine oil?
No. Any full-synthetic 0W-20 that meets API SP and ILSAC GF-6 is acceptable. Honda Genuine is simply the OEM-branded option.
Is conventional oil okay?
Most 0W-20 oils are full synthetic by design. Using a full-synthetic 0W-20 is strongly recommended for performance and durability.
Summary
The 2021 Honda Pilot requires SAE 0W-20 engine oil—ideally full synthetic—meeting API SP and ILSAC GF-6 standards. Expect about 5.7 U.S. quarts with a new filter. Follow the Maintenance Minder for intervals, and use any reputable brand that meets these specifications to keep your V6 protected and efficient.
What oil does a 2021 Honda take?
STP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 0W-20 5 Quart.
How much is an oil change for a 2021 Honda Pilot?
between $127 and $154
The average cost for a Honda Pilot Oil Change is between $127 and $154. Labor costs are estimated between $53 and $77 while parts are priced between $74 and $76. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.
What oil to use for a 2021 Honda Pilot?
Mobil 1 ESP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 0W-20 1 Quart.
What kind of oil should I put in my Honda Pilot?
The correct Honda Pilot oil type is generally a 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil with an API Certification seal, although some older models (like 2009-2011) may require 5W-20. Always refer to your specific owner’s manual or the oil fill cap for the exact recommended viscosity and type to ensure proper engine protection and performance.
Here’s how to find the exact oil type for your Honda Pilot:
- Check your owner’s manual: This is the most accurate source for your vehicle’s specific requirements.
- Look at the oil fill cap: The recommended oil viscosity is often printed directly on the cap.
- Use a commercial oil finder: Many online retailers and oil manufacturers offer tools to look up the correct oil based on your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
Key points about Honda Pilot oil:
- 0W-20 is common for newer models: Most modern Honda Pilots use 0W-20 oil for better fuel efficiency and cold-weather performance, as specified in their owner’s manuals.
- 5W-20 may be used in older models: If you have an older Honda Pilot, particularly from the 2009-2011 model years, you may need 5W-20 oil instead.
- API Certification is important: Look for the API Certification seal (“Starburst” symbol) on the oil container to ensure it meets industry standards.
- Genuine Honda oil is an option: While not mandatory, using genuine Honda motor oil is a reliable choice.
- Full synthetic is often recommended: Full synthetic oil provides better protection and performance in demanding conditions compared to conventional oils.
