The 2021 Ridgeline with its 3.5-liter V6 engine requires 5.7 quarts of engine oil when performing a full change with a new filter (about 5.4 liters). The factory-recommended oil is 0W-20 synthetic.
Understanding the exact capacity matters for planning purchases and ensuring a proper fill. The official figure accounts for the filter change; if you skip replacing the filter, the engine's oil capacity is slightly less, and you should reference the owner's manual for precise guidance. This specification is consistent with Honda’s 3.5L family in the Ridgeline, Pilot, and similar models from around the same era.
Official capacity details for the 2021 Ridgeline
Below is the standard breakdown you’ll encounter in service guides and the owner’s manual:
- With the oil filter installed: 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters)
- Without the oil filter: 5.4 quarts (5.1 liters)
When performing an oil change, use the appropriate capacity for your configuration (with or without a new filter), then recheck the level with the dipstick and top off as needed to reach the full mark.
Oil type and maintenance notes
Honda specifies 0W-20 synthetic oil for the 3.5L V6 in the Ridgeline. Typical change intervals under normal driving are about every 7,500 miles (12 months), with more frequent changes advised under severe driving conditions (extreme temperatures, heavy towing, or frequent short trips).
- Oil grade: 0W-20 synthetic
- Capacity reference: 5.7 quarts with filter; 5.4 quarts without filter
- Change interval: ~7,500 miles under normal conditions; more often under severe conditions
Keep a spare quart on hand if you’re performing the change yourself, and always verify the final oil level with the dipstick after adding oil.
Summary
The 2021 Honda Ridgeline’s 3.5L V6 takes about 5.7 quarts of engine oil when changing the oil with a new filter, using 0W-20 synthetic oil. If you don’t replace the filter, the capacity is slightly lower (around 5.4 quarts). Use this as your baseline for purchases and fills, and always confirm with the owner’s manual for your specific situation.


