Honda recommends 0w 20 engine oil

  • Context: Automotive 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Greg Bernhardt
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Engine Oil
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Honda recommends using 0W-20 engine oil for the Civic to meet fuel economy standards. While some users suggest that 5W-20 may suffice in certain conditions, such as warmer climates or infrequent short trips, it is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's specifications, especially during the warranty period. The higher cost of 0W-20 is attributed to its superior base stock quality. Following outdated oil change intervals, such as 3 months or 3,000 miles, is unnecessary for vehicles manufactured after 1996.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of engine oil viscosity ratings (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-20)
  • Knowledge of vehicle warranty implications
  • Familiarity with oil change intervals and maintenance practices
  • Awareness of fuel economy standards and regulations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the benefits of using 0W-20 engine oil in modern vehicles
  • Investigate the differences in base stock quality between 0W-20 and 5W-20 oils
  • Learn about the impact of oil viscosity on engine performance
  • Explore manufacturer recommendations for oil change intervals for various vehicle models
USEFUL FOR

Car owners, automotive enthusiasts, mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding engine oil specifications and maintenance best practices.

Greg Bernhardt
Admin
Insights Author
Messages
19,881
Reaction score
10,890
My new Civic recommends 0w 20, however it is a bit more expensive, especially if done at a dealership. Is there much difference between 0w 20 and 5w 20? I heard the only reason Honda uses 0w 20 is to meet the MPG guidelines.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
In reality you'll be fine with 5W-20. Unless you live in a very cold place or do a lot of short journeys. You really are unlikely to see a difference.

If you are still in a warranty period, just go with the manual.
 
The reason the 0W20 is more expensive is that the base stocks it's made out of are of a substantially higher quality. Use the 0W20 and do NOT pay attention to anyone telling you to use the 3 month, 3,000 mile oil change interval- it's bunk on any car built after 1996.
 

Similar threads

Automotive How long does engine oil really stay good?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Automotive Topology optimization of an engine's cylinder block
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
A practical way to vaporize fuel for high MPG?
  • · Replies 39 ·
2
Replies
39
Views
4K
Why are con rods failing in modified Honda CRF450 engines?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
14K
Automotive Ozone Enhanced Combustion of Water/Diesel Emulsion in CI Engines
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Top Recommended Machine Design Books for Mechanical Engineering Students
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
6K
Can you help me calculate the required torque and power of this motor?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Auto/Motor Where to best increase car engine oil pressure if intervention is needed?
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
Auto/Motor Honda NT700V Deauville motorcycle maintenence: Drive shaft
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
5K
Automotive Heat/energy balance for a high power petrol engine
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
9K