The answer depends on which transmission your Civic has. For the automatic 5‑speed, plan on about 9 quarts for a full fill (roughly 5–6 quarts if you’re doing a drain-and-fill). For the manual 5‑speed, the capacity is about 2.6–3.0 quarts. Note that hybrids or CVT-equipped Civics use different fluids and capacities, so always check the owner's manual or with a dealer for your exact VIN.
In 2008, the Civic offered two main transmissions: a 5‑speed automatic and a 5‑speed manual. The fluid type and total capacity differ between these configurations, and service method (pan drain, pan/filter replacement, or a full flush) also affects how much fluid you actually add. The sections below summarize typical capacities and the correct fluids for each configuration.
Automatic transmission capacity
This section covers the typical total capacity and common service amounts for the automatic 5‑speed transmission used in the 2008 Civic.
Before listing typical values, note that these figures assume a standard factory fill and that you are not performing a full transmission flush. A simple drain-and-fill will typically replace less fluid than the total capacity because some fluid remains in the torque converter and cooler lines.
- Total capacity (including torque converter and cooler lines): about 9.0–9.5 quarts (roughly 8.5–9.0 liters).
- Drain-and-fill replacement commonly achieved: about 5–6 quarts during a single service.
- Recommended fluid: Honda ATF DW-1 (or an equivalent that meets Honda’s specification for the 5‑speed automatic).
- Notes: After filling, level should be checked with the transmission warm and in the proper gear/condition as specified in the manual; some vehicles may require an additional top-up after a warm-up check.
These values reflect typical service guidelines; actual amounts can vary by production date or VIN. Always verify with the owner’s manual or a Honda service bulletin for your exact vehicle.
Manual transmission capacity
This section covers the typical capacity for the manual 5‑speed transmission used in the 2008 Civic.
Before listing, understand that manual transmissions use gear oil rather than ATF, and the drain-and-fill amount may differ slightly from the total capacity depending on the service performed.
- Total capacity: approximately 2.6–3.0 quarts (about 2.5–2.8 liters).
- Drain-and-fill replacement: about 2.5–3 quarts with a standard pan drain and fill.
- Recommended fluid: Honda MTF (manual transmission fluid) or GL-4 75W-90 gear oil, as specified for your model year; do not use ATF unless explicitly approved in the manual.
- Notes: Follow the exact service procedure from the owner’s manual or service guide for correct level checking and any required steps (gaskets, seal checks, etc.).
As with automatics, the actual amount can vary based on whether you replace the filter, perform a full fluid flush, or replace additional components during service. Verify the final level using the manual’s guidance after the vehicle reaches the proper temperature.
Summary
For a 2008 Honda Civic, transmission fluid capacity depends on the transmission type. Automatics generally require about 9 quarts for a full fill, with roughly 5–6 quarts replaced during a typical drain-and-fill. Manuals carry a smaller capacity, about 2.6–3.0 quarts total, with around 2.5–3 quarts replaced in a drain-and-fill. Use the correct fluid type for each transmission (ATF DW-1 for automatics; MTF or GL-4 75W-90 for manuals) and consult the owner’s manual or a dealer for VIN-specific figures. Always recheck fluid level after warming up and following the specified procedure.