Honda's official guidance centers on Honda Genuine Motor Oil as the preferred brand for Honda and Acura engines, but you may use other brands that meet Honda's specifications and the required viscosity listed in your owner's manual. In practice, many owners rely on aftermarket oils that meet the same standards.
Official guidance and brand options
Honda explains that you can use Honda Genuine Motor Oil, which is specifically formulated for Honda engines, or you can opt for other brands as long as they meet the required specifications and viscosity for your vehicle. The critical factors are the oil's API certification, ILSAC rating, and the correct viscosity as prescribed by the manual.
Two main options to consider when selecting oil are:
- Honda Genuine Motor Oil — the brand designed for Honda engines and guaranteed to meet Honda specifications.
- Other brands that meet Honda's specifications — any reputable brand that provides the correct viscosity and passes API/ILSAC ratings required by your vehicle.
In practice, using Honda Genuine Motor Oil is the simplest path to guaranteed compatibility, but many aftermarket brands are acceptable when they meet the same standards.
Choosing the right viscosity and specification
To ensure proper protection and performance, follow the viscosity and certification levels shown in your owner's manual. For most newer Honda engines, the common requirement is 0W-20, but some models may require 0W-16, 0W-20, or 5W-30 depending on year and engine design. Oil that does not meet the specified rating may impact performance and warranty coverage.
What to look for when buying oil:
- Viscosity: follow the manual (e.g., 0W-20, 0W-16, or 5W-30).
- Certification: API service category (e.g., SN, SP) and ILSAC rating (GF-5, GF-6 or newer).
- Brand reliability: choose a brand that clearly meets Honda’s specification.
Using oil that meets these specifications helps ensure proper engine protection and warranty compliance.
Summary
The official recommendation centers on Honda Genuine Motor Oil as the primary brand, though other brands are permissible if they meet Honda's required viscosity and certification standards. Always verify the oil you choose aligns with the specifications listed in your vehicle’s manual for optimal performance and warranty protection.
Is pro Honda oil worth the extra cost?
Yes. We tested Pro Honda 10W-30 in multiple weather conditions. In hot weather it provides higher torque, lower motor heat, greater component protection, easier flow on cold starts and less mechanical resistance. These all lead to higher horsepower, performance, fuel efficiency and lower evaporation rates.
What brand does Honda recommend for oil?
American Honda recommends using Honda Genuine Motor Oil, sold and available at Honda dealers . If Honda Genuine Motor Oil is not used, conventional motor oil of a premium-grade or an ultimate full synthetic blend may be used and must contain the specified viscosity grade indicated in your Owner's Manual.
Does Honda use Castrol oil?
Castrol manufactures a range of Honda engine oils and Honda brake fluids for all models of Honda cars.
Does Honda use Mobil 1?
It is important to use the right oil in your car to comply with the Honda manufacturer specifications. Using the right Mobil 1™ product during routine servicing and according to your vehicle's handbook will not affect the Honda manufacturer's warranty.