The 2021 Honda Pilot's 3.5-liter V6 engine requires 5.7 quarts of engine oil when performing a standard oil change, including the filter. The recommended viscosity is 0W-20 synthetic oil. This capacity applies to the typical configurations for this model year.
Oil capacity and specifications
The Pilot’s 3.5L V6 (engine code J35Y1) uses a factory-listed oil capacity of 5.7 quarts with the filter installed. When you perform an oil change, you should plan to replace about 5.7 quarts of oil to bring the engine back to the proper level. Honda generally specifies 0W-20 synthetic oil for this engine in most climates.
Engine and oil basics
Understanding the capacity and specification helps drivers schedule maintenance, avoid overfilling and ensure optimal engine protection.
Key facts to keep in mind when planning an oil change:
- Engine oil capacity: 5.7 quarts (with filter)
- Recommended oil: 0W-20 synthetic
- Typical oil-change interval under normal driving: about 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (conditions may require more frequent changes)
In general, plan around 5.7 quarts of oil for a full change, and be sure to replace the filter as part of the service.
Do-it-yourself oil-change steps
If you plan to perform the oil change yourself, follow these basic steps. The list provides a high-level guide; consult the service manual for full torque specs and procedures.
- Warm up the engine briefly, then park on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Place a drain pan under the oil pan and remove the drain plug to drain the old oil.
- Remove the old oil filter and install a new one with the new gasket.
- Reinstall and tighten the drain plug to the specified torque.
- Pour in approximately 5.7 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil, then start the engine and check for leaks.
- Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and check the oil level with the dipstick; add more if needed to reach the proper level.
Following these steps gives you a complete oil change, but always verify the final level with the dipstick and keep an eye out for leaks after running the engine.
Maintenance intervals and reminders
Honda's maintenance minder tailors service intervals to your driving conditions. For most drivers using synthetic 0W-20 oil, a typical interval is about 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Severe operating conditions—such as frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, or heavy towing—may require more frequent changes.
Always refer to the 2021 Honda Pilot owner's manual or your dealer for precise guidance based on your vehicle and locale.
Summary
The 2021 Honda Pilot with the 3.5L V6 engine requires 5.7 quarts of engine oil when performing an oil change, including the filter, and it uses 0W-20 synthetic oil. Plan for roughly 5.7 quarts during service and follow the manufacturer’s interval recommendations, which can be refined by the maintenance minder system and driving conditions.