2014 Honda Accord Oil Requirements: What You Need to Know

The 2014 Honda Accord takes SAE 0W-20 engine oil—preferably full synthetic—that meets API SP (or SN/SN Plus) and ILSAC GF-5/GF-6 standards; this applies to both the 2.4L inline-four and the 3.5L V6. With a filter change, expect about 4.2 quarts for the 2.4L and about 4.5 quarts for the V6. Here’s how that recommendation fits with Honda’s official guidance, how much you’ll need, and tips to keep the engine healthy.

Factory Recommendation and Specifications

Honda’s owner’s manual specifies 0W-20 as the factory fill and the ongoing recommendation for the 2014 Accord across engine options. The automaker notes that later API/ILSAC categories are acceptable and backward-compatible, so choosing a modern, widely available oil is straightforward.

The key specifications below summarize what to look for on the bottle when purchasing oil for a 2014 Accord.

• Viscosity: SAE 0W-20 (all 2014 Accord gasoline engines)
• Type: Full synthetic is recommended; synthetic blend is acceptable if it meets specs
• Standards: API SP (or SN/SN Plus) with the API “Starburst”/“Shield”; ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6
• Equivalent wording: “For Gasoline Engines,” “Resource Conserving,” or “Fuel-Efficient” indicators are common on compliant bottles
• Oil filter: Genuine Honda or a high-quality equivalent meeting OEM specifications

Choosing oil with these labels ensures proper protection, fuel economy, and compatibility with Honda’s emissions and variable valve timing systems.

Oil Capacity by Engine

How much oil you need depends on the engine in your Accord and whether you’re changing the filter. Always confirm the final level on the dipstick after filling.

• 2.4L inline-four (K24W): approximately 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change
• 3.5L V6 (J35Y): approximately 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
• Without filter change: typically about 0.2–0.3 quarts less

Variations can occur due to drain time and vehicle level. Add most of the capacity, run the engine briefly, then recheck and top up to the upper dipstick mark.

Maintenance Minder and Change Intervals

The 2014 Accord uses Honda’s Maintenance Minder to determine oil change timing based on actual driving conditions. Many owners see intervals around 7,500–10,000 miles or roughly 12 months under normal driving, but always service when the Minder instructs.

Certain conditions can shorten oil life; if these apply frequently, expect the Minder to call for earlier changes.

• Repeated short trips where the engine doesn’t fully warm up
• Stop-and-go city driving and extended idling
• Very hot or very cold climates
• Dusty or dirty environments
• Frequent high-load operation (steep grades, heavy cargo)

Adhering to the Minder helps maintain efficiency and longevity while avoiding unnecessary oil changes.

Choosing a Brand and Product

Any reputable 0W-20 that meets API SP (or SN/SN Plus) and ILSAC GF-5/GF-6 will work. If your Accord has higher mileage, high-mileage formulations can help condition seals, provided they still meet the required specs.

• Genuine Honda 0W-20 (factory-spec)
• Major-brand full synthetics labeled 0W-20, API SP, ILSAC GF-6
• High-mileage 0W-20 options for engines with seepage or consumption, still meeting API/ILSAC standards

Prioritize the correct viscosity and certifications over brand; consistency and quality matter most.

How to Check and Top Off Correctly

Accurate oil level checks protect the engine and keep the Maintenance Minder reliable. Follow these basic steps between services.

1. Park on level ground and let the engine sit for a few minutes after shutdown.
2. Pull the dipstick, wipe clean, reinsert fully, then pull again to read.
3. Aim for the level near the upper mark; add oil in small increments (2–4 ounces) if needed.
4. Use the same 0W-20 spec; avoid mixing viscosities.

Recheck after topping off. If consumption increases suddenly, inspect for leaks or have a technician evaluate.

DIY Notes and Torque Specs

For owners performing their own service, a few OEM-oriented details can prevent problems.

• Drain plug washer: replace the crush washer each service (14 mm).
• Drain plug torque: 29 lb-ft (39 N·m).
• Oil filter: lightly oil the gasket; hand-tighten per filter instructions (typically 3/4 turn after gasket contact).
• Dispose of used oil and filters at a recycling center or auto parts store.

Using the proper torque and a new washer helps prevent leaks and stripped threads.

Why 0W-20 Matters for the 2014 Accord

Honda calibrated the 2014 Accord’s engines for 0W-20 to balance cold-start protection, fuel economy, and timing system performance. Thicker oils can reduce efficiency and may affect variable valve timing behavior, while thinner-than-specified grades risk inadequate protection under load.

Sources and Standards

Honda’s 2014 Accord owner’s manual is the authoritative source for viscosity and capacity. Modern oil standards—API SP (backward compatible with SN/SN Plus) and ILSAC GF-6 (successor to GF-5)—reflect current additive technology and protection for timing chains, low-speed pre-ignition, and emissions systems.

Summary

The 2014 Honda Accord uses SAE 0W-20 engine oil meeting API SP (or SN/SN Plus) and ILSAC GF-5/GF-6, with both the 2.4L and 3.5L engines sharing this spec. Expect about 4.2 quarts for the 2.4L and about 4.5 quarts for the V6 with a new filter. Follow the Maintenance Minder for change timing, check levels regularly, and choose any reputable full-synthetic 0W-20 that carries the correct certifications.

How many quarts of oil does a 2014 Honda Accord hold?

The 2014 Honda Accord requires a different oil capacity depending on the engine. The 2.4L 4-cylinder engine typically takes 4.4 to 4.5 quarts with a filter, while the 3.5L V6 engine takes 4.5 quarts with a filter. Always confirm the capacity for your specific engine and check the dipstick to ensure the correct oil level after refilling. 
Engine Oil Capacities by Engine Type 

• 2.4L 4-Cylinder: Approximately 4.4 to 4.5 quarts (including filter).
• 3.5L V6: Approximately 4.5 quarts (including filter).

Before You Refill

1. Identify your engine: Determine if your 2014 Accord has the 4-cylinder or V6 engine. 
2. Locate the dipstick: The dipstick is used to check the oil level. 
3. Check the oil level: After adding oil, start the engine for about 30 seconds, then shut it off. 
4. Verify the fill level: Use the dipstick to confirm the oil level is within the “full” range. 

What oil is recommended for a Honda Accord?

The Honda Accord oil type depends on the model year; 2011 and newer models generally require 0W-20 synthetic oil, while older models, such as those from 2000-2010, use 5W-20. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the specific viscosity grade and use a full synthetic oil for modern engines to ensure proper performance and protection.
 
Here’s a breakdown by model year: 

• 2011 and newer: Use a 0W-20 synthetic oil. This is a common recommendation for newer models, especially those with turbocharged engines.
• 2000-2010: Use a 5W-20 oil. Older models also had a history of using 5W-20 or even 5W-30 or 15W-40 for very old models.

Important tips for choosing oil:

• Consult your owner’s manual: This is the most crucial step to confirm the specific requirements for your Accord model. 
• Choose synthetic oil: For most modern Accords, a full synthetic oil is the recommended choice, offering better protection in a wide range of temperatures. 
• Match the manufacturer’s recommendation: Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended viscosity grade to avoid using oil that is too thin or too thick for your engine. 

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 filter does a 2014 Honda Accord take?

The OEM (original equipment manufacturer) oil filter number for a 2014 Honda Accord is 15400-PLM-A02. This filter is a genuine Honda part and is also cross-referenced with other brands like FRAM. 
Other compatible oil filters:

• FRAM: PH7317, S7317
• STP: S7317, S7317XL
• Wix: XP
• Mahle Tennex: 15400-RTA-003 

When choosing a replacement filter, it’s always a good idea to double-check compatibility with your specific vehicle (engine type, etc.) using the retailer’s fitment tool or by consulting your owner’s manual.