The standard 2009 Honda Civic with the 1.8-liter engine uses SAE 5W-20 synthetic motor oil. The sportier 2.0-liter engine in the Civic Si uses SAE 5W-30 synthetic motor oil.
In 2009, Civics were offered with two four-cylinder engines, so the exact oil depends on your trim. The following breakdown covers the two common engines and the recommended oil specs, including the certifications to look for.
Engine-specific oil requirements
Oil type by engine to ensure proper lubrication and warranty compliance.
- 1.8L engine (R18A1) — Recommended viscosity: 5W-20 synthetic oil. Use API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer. Honda Genuine Motor Oil or an equivalent meeting these specifications is recommended.
- 2.0L engine (K20Z3) — Civic Si — Recommended viscosity: 5W-30 synthetic oil. Use API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer. Use Honda Genuine Motor Oil or an equivalent meeting these specs.
Note: Verify using the owner's manual, under-hood oil cap, or the vehicle’s maintenance minder sticker, since official recommendations can vary by market and model year within the same generation.
Additional considerations for oil selection
This section covers common questions around synthetic vs conventional and climate considerations.
- Synthetic oil is generally preferred for better protection and longer drain intervals, particularly in older Civics or extreme temperatures.
- Always choose an oil that explicitly meets API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer specifications to ensure compatibility with modern engines and emissions systems.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended oil-change interval, typically around 5,000 miles (8,000 km) with conventional oil, and potentially longer with synthetic oil, depending on driving conditions.
Concluding note: Always check your manual for the exact specification for your Civic’s trim, and confirm the oil capacity if you plan to perform an oil change yourself.
Summary
For the 2009 Honda Civic, oil type depends on the engine: 5W-20 synthetic for the 1.8L engine; 5W-30 synthetic for the 2.0L Si. Use oil that meets API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer, and consult the owner’s manual or under-hood sticker to confirm the exact specification for your vehicle.
What oil goes in a 2009 Honda Civic?
Oil Grade: API*
| Viscosity: | 5W-20 (All TEMPS) |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 3.9 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Capacity: | 3.7 quarts. w/of. After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 29 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
What type of oil is best for a Honda Civic?
full synthetic 0W-20 engine oil
Modern Honda Civics require full synthetic 0W-20 engine oil, a specific viscosity grade providing optimal protection for Civic engine components while contributing to improved fuel efficiency.
What is the weakness of the Honda Civic?
Common Issues to Watch For in a Used Honda Civic
Suspension Wear. Rust Around Wheel Wells. CVT Transmission Hesitation. Worn Ignition Coils.
What are the most common civic repairs?
In a nutshell: The Honda Civic is generally a very reliable family car, with newer models performing especially well in owner surveys. Common problems include brake wear, minor electrical faults and, on some 2017-2022 1.0 VTEC Turbo models, wet belt-related engine issues that can become expensive if ignored.