What kind of oil does a 2021 Honda take?

For most 2021 Honda passenger cars and SUVs, the recommended engine oil is 0W-20 full-synthetic that meets API SP and ILSAC GF-6A specifications; the key exception is the 2021 Civic Type R, which specifies 0W-30. This guidance applies to U.S./Canada market Honda automobiles; always confirm on your oil filler cap and in your owner’s manual.

The standard Honda recommendation

Honda specifies a premium-grade 0W-20 detergent oil for the vast majority of its 2021 gasoline engines, including the Accord, Civic (non-Type R), CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Passport, Odyssey, Ridgeline, Insight, and Clarity PHEV. The oil should carry the API SP rating and ILSAC GF-6A fuel-economy standard. Honda Genuine Motor Oil 0W-20 meets these requirements, but any reputable brand that lists API SP and ILSAC GF-6A on the label is acceptable.

Model-by-model overview

The following list summarizes typical 2021 Honda automobile models and the oil viscosity Honda specifies for each in North America. Always double-check the filler cap and owner’s manual for your exact trim and engine.

• Accord (1.5T and 2.0T): 0W-20, API SP, ILSAC GF-6A
• Civic (2.0L and 1.5T, non-Type R): 0W-20, API SP, ILSAC GF-6A
• Civic Type R (2.0L turbo): 0W-30, API SP (Honda specifies 0W-30; many owners use full synthetic)
• CR-V (1.5T): 0W-20, API SP, ILSAC GF-6A
• HR-V (1.8L): 0W-20, API SP, ILSAC GF-6A
• Pilot / Passport / Odyssey / Ridgeline (3.5L V6): 0W-20, API SP, ILSAC GF-6A
• Insight hybrid: 0W-20, API SP, ILSAC GF-6A
• Clarity Plug-in Hybrid: 0W-20, API SP, ILSAC GF-6A

In short, 0W-20 full synthetic with API SP and ILSAC GF-6A will be correct for nearly all 2021 Hondas, with the Civic Type R’s 0W-30 as the main outlier.

How to verify for your specific vehicle

Check three places: the oil filler cap (which often lists viscosity), the owner’s manual (engine oil section), and any under-hood labels. If there’s a conflict, follow the owner’s manual. Regional specs may vary slightly outside North America.

Oil change intervals and warranty notes

Most 2021 Hondas use the Maintenance Minder system to determine oil change timing; follow the percentage indicator and accompanying service codes rather than a fixed mileage. Using oil that meets Honda’s specified viscosity and API/ILSAC standards helps ensure proper protection, fuel economy, and warranty compliance. Keep receipts if you change oil yourself.

Buying and using the right oil

When you’re on the shelf or shopping online, labels can be confusing. Use the checklist below to make sure you’re getting the correct oil and supporting parts.

1. Confirm viscosity: 0W-20 for most models; 0W-30 for the 2021 Civic Type R.
2. Look for API SP on the “donut” mark and ILSAC GF-6A (the “Starburst” certification for 0W-20 grades).
3. Choose full-synthetic oil for best performance and durability.
4. Use a quality oil filter that meets OEM specs (Honda Genuine or a reputable equivalent).
5. If 0W-20 is temporarily unavailable, many manuals allow a one-time use of 5W-20 until the next change—verify in your manual.

Following these steps ensures you match Honda’s specifications and maintain engine efficiency and protection over a wide temperature range.

Summary

Most 2021 Honda automobiles are designed for 0W-20 full-synthetic oil meeting API SP and ILSAC GF-6A; the notable exception is the 2021 Civic Type R, which specifies 0W-30. Verify on the oil cap and in the owner’s manual, and follow the Maintenance Minder for change intervals.

Can I put 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 on a Honda Accord?

You can typically use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 for a short period, but it’s best to stick to the manufacturer’s recommendation, which is usually found on the oil cap or in the owner’s manual, as the engine was designed for a specific oil viscosity. Using a thicker 5W-30 oil may slightly reduce fuel economy and increase engine friction, though it could offer better lubrication or help if the engine is consuming too much 5W-20 oil. 
Why it matters

• Viscosity: . Opens in new tabThe “W” number in 5W-20 and 5W-30 indicates the oil’s flow in cold temperatures, while the second number shows its thickness at operating temperature. 
• Engine Design: . Opens in new tabHonda designs its engines with specific oil viscosities in mind for optimal performance, which includes fuel efficiency and proper lubrication. 

Potential Impacts of Using 5W-30

• Fuel Economy: . Opens in new tabYou may notice a slight decrease in fuel economy because the 5W-30 oil is thicker, requiring more energy to circulate through the engine. 
• Engine Friction and Wear: . Opens in new tabA heavier oil can increase engine friction and may affect the oil pump’s performance. 
• Engine Wear: . Opens in new tabWhile 5W-30 might provide better lubrication in some cases, the overall impact on wear depends on how the engine was originally designed. 

When to Consider 5W-30

• Temporary Solution: If you need to use 5W-30 because 5W-20 is not available, it’s generally not a major concern for a short-term situation. 
• High-Mileage Engines: Some drivers of older, high-mileage Honda engines switch to 5W-30 to help manage oil consumption issues caused by wear on engine components like piston rings. 

What to Do Next

1. 1. Check Your Owner’s Manual: Always refer to your Honda Accord’s owner’s manual to confirm the recommended oil viscosity for your specific model year. 
2. 2. Use the Recommended Oil: For long-term use, it’s best to use the oil viscosity that the engine was designed for to maintain optimal performance, fuel economy, and engine health. 

What kind of oil does a 2021 Honda Accord Sport 1.5 T take?

The recommended Honda Accord oil is generally a synthetic 0W-20 formula.

What oil does a 2021 Honda take?

STP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 0W-20 5 Quart.

Do Hondas need full synthetic oil?

Typically, your owner’s manual will provide details on which oil works best for your engine. If you’ve misplaced your manual, don’t worry. Our service experts are happy to help you select the right oil. Most Hondas from the last decade require synthetic oil due to its high durability and engine protection properties.