What kind of oil does a Honda that takes 0W-20 use?

A Honda that specifies 0W‑20 uses SAE 0W‑20 full‑synthetic engine oil meeting API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF‑6A (or newer) standards. Honda Genuine 0W‑20 is the OEM recommendation, but any reputable brand that meets these certifications is acceptable. In short, buy a full‑synthetic 0W‑20 with the API certification marks and you’re good to go.

What 0W‑20 means—and why Honda specifies it

SAE 0W‑20 is a low‑viscosity oil designed to flow quickly at cold start (“0W”) while maintaining adequate protection at operating temperature (“20”). Honda engineers specify 0W‑20 for most modern gasoline engines to reduce internal friction, improve fuel economy, and ensure reliable lubrication across a wide temperature range.

The official spec to follow

Across recent Honda owner’s manuals, the guidance is consistent: use premium‑grade detergent oil with the API Certification Mark and the appropriate service category. For today’s vehicles, that means API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF‑6A (or newer) in the 0W‑20 viscosity. Honda Genuine Motor Oil 0W‑20 meets these requirements, but equivalent third‑party oils are fine if they carry the same certifications.

How to verify you’re buying the right oil

When you’re standing in front of the shelf, labels can be confusing. Here’s how to quickly confirm you have the correct product before you pour it into your Honda.

• Viscosity: The front label must say SAE 0W‑20.
• API Certification: Look for the API “Donut” (service category line should show API SP or newer) and the Certification Mark (Starburst/Shield for gasoline engines).
• ILSAC Standard: The label should mention ILSAC GF‑6A (or newer). GF‑6A is the typical spec for 0W‑20.
• Full synthetic wording: Most 0W‑20 oils are full synthetic; confirm the bottle says “Full Synthetic.”
• Owner’s manual match: If your oil cap or manual lists any additional requirements, ensure the bottle claims compliance.

If a bottle meets the viscosity and these certification marks, it’s suitable for a Honda that calls for 0W‑20, regardless of brand or price point.

Trusted 0W‑20 options that meet Honda’s needs

While Honda Genuine Motor Oil is the factory choice, many widely available oils meet Honda’s requirements and perform well.

• Honda Genuine Full Synthetic 0W‑20
• Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy 0W‑20
• Castrol EDGE 0W‑20
• Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0W‑20
• Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 0W‑20
• Quaker State Full Synthetic 0W‑20

Choose any of the above as long as the bottle lists API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF‑6A (or newer). Availability and price may vary, but the certifications are what matter most.

When a different grade may be specified

Most modern Hondas require 0W‑20, but there are exceptions and special cases. Always confirm your specific model’s requirement on the oil cap and in the owner’s manual.

• Performance models: Some, like the Civic Type R, may specify 0W‑30. Do not substitute 0W‑20 if your cap/manual calls for 0W‑30.
• Older models: Pre‑2011 vehicles might specify 5W‑20 or 5W‑30.
• Emergency top‑off: Many Honda manuals allow temporary use of 5W‑20 if 0W‑20 isn’t available; return to 0W‑20 at the next change.
• Severe service or extreme climate: Follow the manual—Honda typically keeps 0W‑20 even in a wide temperature range, but defer to official guidance.

If your vehicle is new to you or has been modified, double‑check the manual or consult a Honda dealer to avoid using the wrong viscosity.

Oil change intervals and capacity

Honda’s Maintenance Minder system sets change intervals based on real‑world use, which often lands between 6,000 and 10,000 miles (roughly 10,000–16,000 km) or about 12 months for many drivers. Turbocharged or short‑trip driving can shorten intervals. Typical oil capacities range roughly from 3.7 to 5.7 US quarts (3.5–5.4 L) depending on engine and model—verify in the manual for your exact engine and whether you’re changing the filter.

Quick checklist before you pour

To make sure you’re set for a clean, compliant oil change, run through this brief checklist.

• Confirm your engine’s required viscosity on the oil cap and in the owner’s manual.
• Buy SAE 0W‑20 full‑synthetic oil with API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF‑6A (or newer) certifications.
• Use an OEM‑quality oil filter (Honda or equivalent) compatible with your model.
• Note the correct fill capacity for your exact engine and whether the filter is being replaced.
• Reset the Maintenance Minder after the change.

Following this checklist helps ensure proper lubrication, warranty compliance, and fewer headaches later on.

Bottom line

If your Honda calls for 0W‑20, use a full‑synthetic SAE 0W‑20 that carries the API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF‑6A (or newer) marks. Honda Genuine 0W‑20 is ideal, but any major brand meeting these specs is acceptable. Always confirm your specific model’s requirement in the owner’s manual.

Summary

Answer: A Honda that specifies 0W‑20 takes full‑synthetic SAE 0W‑20 motor oil meeting API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF‑6A (or newer) standards; Honda Genuine 0W‑20 or any equivalent certified brand is suitable. Verify on the oil cap/manual, follow the Maintenance Minder for intervals, and use an OEM‑quality filter.

Do I have to use Honda oil in my Honda?

Honda generally recommends using their own brand of motor oil, which is Honda Genuine Oil. For many models, they specify using oils that meet the API (American Petroleum Institute) certification and the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) viscosity ratings suitable for the specific model and climate.

Can I use 5w20 full synthetic instead of 0w20 full synthetic oil?

If SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, SAE 5W-20 conventional oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change. Was this article helpful?

What oil can I use for 0w20?

Some top recommendations for 0W-20 engine oils suitable for turbocharged engines include Mobil 1 0W-20, Castrol Edge 0W-20, and Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0W-20. These oils have been formulated to provide excellent protection and performance in turbocharged applications.

How long does 0W-20 synthetic oil last on a Honda?

We recommend vehicles using synthetic oil have their oil changed every 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first.