What synthetic oil does Honda use?

Honda typically uses its own Honda Genuine Motor Oil—most commonly a full-synthetic 0W‑20—for late‑model gasoline engines serviced at Honda dealerships. In North America, this oil is primarily blended and supplied by Idemitsu Lubricants America; in Europe, Honda’s long-standing aftersales oil partner is Castrol. Always match the viscosity and certification listed in your owner’s manual (often 0W‑20 meeting API SP and ILSAC GF‑6).

Factory fill and dealer service: what’s in your Honda?

New Hondas leave the factory with Honda Genuine Motor Oil engineered for fuel efficiency and engine protection, and dealers generally service vehicles with the same line. For most current gasoline models—Civic, Accord, CR‑V, HR‑V, Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline, and many Acura counterparts—the default specification is full‑synthetic 0W‑20. This oil meets modern standards for turbocharged, direct‑injected engines and is backward compatible with many earlier models that originally specified 5W‑20.

Regional supply and branding

While the bottle says “Honda Genuine,” the blender varies by market. In the U.S. and Canada, Idemitsu Lubricants America produces much of Honda Genuine Motor Oil sold through dealers. In Europe, Honda and Castrol have an established service-fill partnership, and dealers commonly use Castrol formulations labeled or approved for Honda. In Japan and some Asian markets, Honda’s “Ultra” series (e.g., Ultra LEO 0W‑20) serves as the Genuine line. Regardless of supplier, the key is meeting Honda’s specified grade and industry certifications.

Recommended viscosities by model and market

While 0W‑20 full synthetic is the default for most recent Hondas, there are legitimate variations based on engine design, climate, and market. The following summarizes what owners typically encounter; always defer to the viscosity chart and notes in your specific owner’s manual.

• 0W‑20 full synthetic: The standard fill for most 2011–present Honda gasoline engines, including turbo and hybrid variants in North America and many other regions.
• 5W‑30: May be specified for some older models or permitted for severe-duty use in certain engines; some regional manuals allow it in hotter climates.
• 0W‑30: Allowed in some markets for cold climates or sustained high-load operation; check the manual for alternates.
• 0W‑16: Specified for select models in certain markets (more common in Japan). Only use if your manual explicitly lists 0W‑16 (ILSAC GF‑6B).
• Diesel i‑DTEC models (outside North America): Typically require low‑SAPS ACEA C2/C3 0W‑30/5W‑30 oils suitable for DPF-equipped engines.

Using the correct viscosity ensures proper lubrication, fuel economy, and emissions performance. If multiple grades are listed, choose based on climate and driving severity as directed by the manual.

If you’re not buying from a Honda dealer: what specs must the oil meet?

You can safely use equivalent oils from reputable brands as long as they meet Honda’s required certifications for your engine and market. Here’s what to look for on the label.

• API SP (or newer) for gasoline engines, with “Resource Conserving” designation where applicable.
• ILSAC GF‑6A for 0W‑20, 5W‑20, and 5W‑30 grades; ILSAC GF‑6B for 0W‑16 grades.
• For turbocharged direct‑injection engines, API SP/GF‑6 oils provide LSPI protection and timing‑chain wear control.
• For Honda diesels (markets where sold), ACEA C2 or C3 low‑SAPS oils as specified by the vehicle manual.

Matching these specifications preserves engine protection and fuel economy and keeps you within warranty requirements in markets where Magnuson‑Moss–type rules apply.

Frequently asked points

Can I use another brand or mix oils?

Yes—brand is less important than meeting Honda’s viscosity and certification. Mixing small amounts of different brands for top‑offs is generally acceptable if the grade and specs match. For full changes, stick to one product where possible.

Can I switch viscosities?

Only if your owner’s manual lists alternates. Some performance or severe‑duty notes allow 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 in specific conditions. Otherwise, use the primary grade (commonly 0W‑20).

How often should I change Honda synthetic oil?

Follow the Maintenance Minder. Typical intervals range from about 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000–16,000 km) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. Honda advises against early drain intervals on new engines; the factory fill is designed to remain until the first Minder service.

What does the bottle look like?

Dealer bottles are labeled “Honda Genuine Motor Oil” (or “Acura Genuine Motor Oil”) with the viscosity (e.g., 0W‑20) and the API/ILSAC marks. Bulk drums are common at dealers; consumer bottles are typically 1‑quart/1‑liter and larger.

Bottom line

For most modern Hondas, the intended synthetic oil is Honda Genuine Motor Oil full‑synthetic 0W‑20 that meets API SP and ILSAC GF‑6. In North America it’s commonly supplied by Idemitsu; in Europe, Castrol serves as Honda’s partner. If buying outside the dealer network, choose an equivalent oil that matches Honda’s specified viscosity and certifications for your exact model and climate.

Summary

Honda uses its own Honda Genuine full‑synthetic oil—most often 0W‑20—meeting API SP/ILSAC GF‑6. Idemitsu supplies much of the North American dealer oil, while Castrol is Honda’s European partner. Some engines and markets allow alternate viscosities, so always follow your owner’s manual and certification requirements.

Why does Honda use 0W-20?

0W-20 synthetic oil is thinner and more fluid than higher weight motor oil, which means that it can flow more easily through your engine. This allows for better lubrication and reduces friction between moving parts, which can help prolong the life of your engine.

Which brand of oil does Honda use?

Honda Genuine Motor Oil
American Honda recommends using Honda Genuine Motor Oil, sold and available at Honda dealers . If Honda Genuine Motor Oil is not used, conventional motor oil of a premium-grade or an ultimate full synthetic blend may be used and must contain the specified viscosity grade indicated in your Owner’s Manual.

Is Mobil 1 ok for Honda?

Choose Mobil 1™ motor oil for your Honda
We offer a full range of synthetic and synthetic blend motor oils to keep your engine in peak condition throughout its lifetime.

Does Honda recommend full synthetic oil?

Understanding Honda’s Oil Recommendations
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.