What oil should I use for a 2013 Honda Accord?

Use SAE 0W-20 full-synthetic motor oil that meets API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF-6A standards. This is recommended for all 2013 Accord gasoline engines (2.4L I4 and 3.5L V6), year-round. Typical fill with a new filter is about 4.4 qt (4.2 L) for the 2.4L and about 4.5 qt (4.3 L) for the V6—always verify on the dipstick after filling.

Recommended oil specification

Honda specifies 0W-20 for the 2013 Accord to ensure reliable cold starts, efficient lubrication, and fuel economy. Modern API/ILSAC standards have since advanced, so choosing oil that meets current specs gives you equal or better protection than originally required.

• Viscosity: SAE 0W-20
• Type: Full synthetic
• Standards: API SP (supersedes SN) and ILSAC GF-6A
• Gasoline engines covered: 2.4L I4 (Earth Dreams) and 3.5L V6

Any brand that clearly lists these specs on the label is suitable and will meet or exceed Honda’s original requirements.

Oil capacity by engine

The exact quantity can vary slightly with drain time and residual oil. Start below the listed amount, run the engine briefly, then top up to the upper dipstick mark.

• 2.4L inline-4: Approximately 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) with filter
• 3.5L V6: Approximately 4.5 US qt (4.3 L) with filter

Always confirm using the dipstick on level ground after the engine has idled and rested a few minutes, topping up as needed.

Oil change interval

The Accord’s Maintenance Minder system tracks oil life based on driving conditions. Follow it for the most accurate interval. As a rule of thumb, many owners see 7,500–10,000 miles (12,000–16,000 km) or 12 months between changes under normal driving; severe use (short trips, extreme temperatures, frequent idling) may require 5,000-mile (8,000-km) intervals.

Filters and key service notes

Using quality filters and proper installation torque helps ensure long engine life and prevents leaks.

• OEM oil filter: Honda 15400-PLM-A02 (or superseding Honda part)
• Drain plug washer: Honda 94109-14000 (replace at every oil change)
• Drain plug torque: 29 lb-ft (39 N·m)
• Oil filter install: Lightly oil gasket; hand-tighten until gasket contacts, then turn an additional 3/4 turn (roughly 12–14 lb-ft)

After service, start the engine, check for leaks, verify the level on the dipstick, and reset the Maintenance Minder in the instrument cluster.

Trusted brands that meet the spec

These widely available oils meet SAE 0W-20, API SP, and ILSAC GF-6A. Choose any you prefer; consistency matters more than brand.

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

Stick with a reputable brand and keep receipts/logs if you’re maintaining the vehicle yourself.

Exceptions and climate considerations

Honda’s recommendation is 0W-20 year-round, including hot climates. If 0W-20 isn’t available in a pinch, you may use 5W-20 temporarily and switch back to 0W-20 at the next change. For higher-mileage engines with minor seepage, a high-mileage 0W-20 formula is acceptable; avoid moving to thicker viscosities unless a professional specifically advises it for a known issue.

Verifying for your exact car

All 2013 U.S.-market gasoline Accords (I4 and V6) call for 0W-20. To be certain, check your owner’s manual and the under-hood oil spec label. If your car was imported or has non-standard modifications, confirm the spec with a trusted technician.

Summary

Use full-synthetic SAE 0W-20 meeting API SP and ILSAC GF-6A for any 2013 Honda Accord gasoline model. Expect about 4.4 qt for the 2.4L and 4.5 qt for the V6 with a new filter, but always set the final level by the dipstick. Follow the Maintenance Minder, use a quality filter with a new crush washer, and torque the drain plug to 29 lb-ft for a clean, reliable oil service.

Is my 2013 Honda Accord a 4 or 6 cylinder?

Your 2013 Honda Accord is either a 4-cylinder or a V6, depending on the specific trim and engine option you have. The base engine for most sedan trims is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder, while higher trims like the Touring and EX-L V6 feature a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine.
 
To determine which engine you have:

1. Check the trim level: The 4-cylinder was standard on base models (LX, EX, EX-L) and the Sport trim, while the V6 was reserved for higher trims like the Touring and EX-L V6. 
2. Look under the hood: If you have a V6, you’ll see the engine has six cylinders. A 4-cylinder engine will have four cylinders. 
3. Consult your owner’s manual: It will specify the exact engine configuration for your vehicle. 

How many quarts of oil does a 2.4 l Honda Accord take?

A 2.4L Honda Accord generally takes 4.2 to 4.4 quarts of oil with a filter change, though the exact amount can vary by model year. To be certain, you should check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the oil viscosity cap under the hood for the precise amount. 
How to Determine the Exact Amount

1. Check the Owner’s Manual: The most accurate information will always be in your car’s owner’s manual. 
2. Look at the Oil Cap: The recommended oil viscosity, and sometimes the capacity, is printed on the oil fill cap under the hood. 
3. Consult an Online Tool: Websites like AMSOIL allow you to look up your specific year and model for accurate oil capacities. 

Important Considerations

• Fill Slowly and Check Often: When adding oil, pour it in slowly and check the dipstick frequently to avoid overfilling. 
• New vs. Used Cars: Older vehicles may sometimes be spec’d for slightly different oil weights or require more oil than the standard amount to reach the full mark on the dipstick. 
• Oil Filter: Always replace the oil filter when you change the oil. 

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 type of oil is best for a Honda Accord?

Honda recommends using 5W-20 motor oil. While synthetic oil is not mandatory, opting for it can enhance engine longevity, and the choice is entirely yours. I would suggest considering synthetic oil if you’re willing to invest a bit more initially.