The 2012 Honda Civic Si with its 6-speed manual transmission typically requires about 2.4 quarts (roughly 2.3 liters) of transmission fluid for a complete drain and refill. Exact amounts can vary slightly depending on whether you also drain the differential and the specific fluid you use. Always consult the owner’s or service manual for the precise specification for your car.
Fluid type and capacity
The Civic Si’s 6-speed manual transmission uses Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) or a high-quality GL-4 75W-90 gear oil approved for manual transmissions. Do not use automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in a manual transmission. The typical total capacity for a full drain-and-refill is about 2.4 quarts (2.3 liters). If you only partially drain or if the front differential is serviced separately, the amount you refill may be less and some fluid will remain in the gearbox.
Tools and materials
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials to ensure a smooth drain-and-refill:
- Approximately 2.4 quarts (2.3 liters) of transmission fluid (Honda MTF or GL-4 75W-90)
- New drain plug washer(s) and an appropriate fill plug washer
- Drain pan large enough to hold the old fluid
- Socket or wrench set (sizes vary by vehicle; typically metric) and a ratchet
- Funnel and rags for cleanup
- Jack stands or ramps and wheel chocks for safe under-car access
- Optional torque wrench for precise plug re-tightening
Having these items on hand helps ensure a clean, successful change and proper sealing of the plugs.
Drain-and-fill procedure
Follow these steps to perform a full drain and refill of the transmission fluid on a 2012 Civic Si. The list below is a practical guide; refer to the factory service manual for exact torque specs and procedures.
- Warm up the vehicle briefly, then park on a level surface and secure it with the parking brake and wheel chocks. Raise the car if needed to access the transmission drain and fill plugs.
- Locate and remove the fill plug first, then place a drain pan under the transmission and remove the drain plug to allow the old fluid to drain completely.
- Once the fluid has drained, reinstall the drain plug with a new washer and torque to the manufacturer’s specification.
- Pry open the fill hole and attach a funnel. Refill the transmission slowly with the new fluid until it begins to trickle out of the fill hole (the level should be at the bottom edge of the fill hole).
- Reinstall the fill plug and wipe away any spills. Lower the car and run the engine. With the transmission in neutral, gently shift through gears to circulate the new fluid, then return to neutral.
- With the engine off, recheck the fill level after the fluid has cooled to ensure it’s still at the correct level. Add a small amount if necessary to reach the proper level.
- Dispose of the used transmission fluid according to local guidelines and recycle any used washers appropriately.
Properly refilled transmissions should not leak and should shift smoothly. If you notice leaks or rough shifting after a refill, consult a qualified technician.
Tips and cautions
Important reminders to avoid common mistakes during a swap:
- Use the recommended fluid — Honda MTF or a GL-4 75W-90 gear oil suitable for manual transmissions. Do not use ATF.
- Aim to fill to the bottom edge of the fill hole; temperature and age of fluid can affect the level, so re-check after it cools.
- Do not overfill the transmission; excess fluid can foam, leak, or cause shifting issues.
- Always replace worn washers when re-installing plugs, and ensure plugs are torqued to spec.
- Recycle the old fluid and avoid spills on the driveway or environment.
Following these precautions helps ensure you maintain smooth shifting and protect the transmission’s internal components.
Summary
For a 2012 Civic Si with a 6-speed manual transmission, plan on about 2.4 quarts (2.3 liters) of transmission fluid for a full drain and refill, using Honda MTF or GL-4 75W-90 gear oil. The exact amount can vary slightly depending on whether the differential is serviced and the fluid used. Gather the right tools, follow a careful drain-and-fill procedure, and check the level after the fluid cools to ensure proper operation. Always defer to the factory service manual for precise specifications and torque values.
How much transmission fluid for a 2012 Civic SI?
Okay then it's just as simple as adding your transmission. Fluid. This is going to take just under three quarts. It's about 2.9 quarts if you add all three quarts. It's not going to hurt. Anything.
How many liters of ATF for Honda Civic 2012?
Transmission Fluid Change
| Manual Transmission Fluid Type | Honda MTF-3 |
|---|---|
| Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity | 1.4 litres at fluid change (petrol models) |
| 2.2 litres at fluid change (diesel models) | |
| Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity | 2.4 litres at fluid change |
| Manual Transmission Fluid Drain Plug Torque | 39 Nm |
What are signs of low ATF in a Honda?
Pay Attention to Your Car
- Delayed response. Whether you drive automatic or manual, if you notice a delay in gear shift changes, the issue may be with the transmission fluid.
- Burning smell.
- Noticeable leakage.
- Check engine light.
How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need for a drain and fill?
Procedure. That's 2 and 1/2 quarts. So at this point let's measure it i'm going to remove my funnel. And before I install the dipstick. I just wanted to show you how to check it. So on the dipstick.