The 2016 Honda Civic uses a cartridge-style oil filter that sits in a housing and must be replaced as a cartridge (not a traditional spin-on canister). Both the 2.0L i-VTEC and the 1.5L turbo engines use this cartridge design, and you should use 0W-20 engine oil. Always check your specific engine code and VIN to confirm the exact filter kit.
Engine options and filter type
In 2016, Civics were offered with two main engines. Both use a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a small cap rather than a conventional spin-on filter.
How cartridge filters differ from spin-on
A cartridge filter is a replaceable element inside a housing; you replace just the filter body and seals, while the housing remains in place. This setup is common in newer Honda engines.
To ensure you buy the right part, verify your engine code (2.0L i-VTEC or 1.5L Turbo) in the owner's manual or Honda's parts database.
Before purchasing parts, confirm your exact engine and filter kit using your VIN or the parts catalog for your model year. The following guidelines summarize typical cartridge-kit considerations for a 2016 Civic.
- 2.0L i-VTEC engine (LX/EX) – cartridge-style oil filter kit including the filter element and the housing O-ring.
- 1.5L Turbo engine – cartridge-style oil filter kit including the filter element and the housing O-ring.
Regardless of engine, the Civic in 2016 uses a cartridge oil filter; always verify the exact part numbers for your specific engine code.
What to buy for a DIY oil change
When planning a DIY oil change, gather the items below so you can complete the job cleanly and correctly.
- 0W-20 synthetic engine oil (check capacity for your exact engine; typically around 4.2–4.5 quarts with filter change).
- Cartridge-style oil filter kit compatible with your 2016 Civic engine (2.0L or 1.5L turbo) – includes the filter element and housing O-ring.
- New drain plug gasket/washer and a replacement O-ring for the filter housing cap.
- Tools: drain pan, ratchet/socket set, funnel, jack or ramps, gloves; optional torque wrench.
Using the correct cartridge kit and new seals helps prevent leaks and ensures proper filtration during the next interval.
Installation tips
Follow these guidelines to install the new cartridge and oil safely and effectively.
- Warm up the engine briefly, then safely raise the vehicle and place a drain pan underneath the oil pan.
- Drain the old oil by removing the drain plug, allowing it to fully drain, then reinstall the plug with a new washer if needed.
- Remove the filter housing cap, pull out the old cartridge, and install the new cartridge along with a fresh O-ring for the housing cap.
- Reinstall the housing cap, tighten to the manufacturer’s specification, and refill with the recommended 0W-20 oil until the correct dipstick level is reached.
- Run the engine for a short period, check for leaks, recheck oil level, and top up if necessary.
Note: Always dispose of used oil and the old filter cartridge according to local regulations.
Summary
The 2016 Honda Civic uses a cartridge-type oil filter that sits inside a housing, for both the 2.0L i-VTEC and the 1.5L turbo engines. Replace the cartridge and the housing O-ring during oil changes, and use 0W-20 oil. Confirm the exact part numbers for your VIN by consulting the owner's manual or Honda's parts database to ensure you buy the correct cartridge kit.