If your Honda Civic is due for an oil change, you might be wondering how much oil it takes to properly fill the engine. This article will provide you with the exact oil capacity for both the 1.5L and 2.0L engines, as well as step-by-step instructions on how to change the oil yourself.
Oil Capacity for Honda Civics
The oil capacity for a Honda Civic varies depending on the engine size:
- 1.5L engine: 3.7 US quarts of 0W-20 oil
- 2.0L engine: 4.4 US quarts of 0W-20 oil
It is crucial to use the correct type and amount of oil specified by Honda to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your engine. Using the wrong oil or overfilling the engine can cause serious problems.
Why is Using the Correct Oil Amount Important?
Using the correct oil capacity is essential for several reasons:
- Lubrication: Oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction and wear. The correct oil level ensures that all components are adequately lubricated.
- Cooling: Oil also helps cool the engine by absorbing heat from the moving parts.
- Seals and gaskets: The proper oil level helps maintain the integrity of seals and gaskets, preventing leaks.
- Oil pressure: Too much oil can increase oil pressure, which can damage seals and gaskets.
How to Change the Oil in a Honda Civic
Materials Required:
-
3 Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- 17mm wrench or socket
- New crush washer
- 4.4 US quarts of 0W-20 oil (2.0L)
- 3.7 US quarts of 0W-20 oil (1.5L)
Instructions:
1. Remove Splash Shield:
- Locate the splash shield under the front of the vehicle.
- Use the 3 Phillips screwdriver and flathead screwdriver to remove the screws and bolts holding it in place.
2. Drain Oil:
- Place an oil pan under the drain plug.
- Use the 17mm wrench or socket to loosen the drain plug. Allow the oil to drain completely.
- Replace the drain plug with a new crush washer and torque it to 30 foot pounds.
3. Refill Oil:
- For the 2.0L engine, add 4.4 US quarts of 0W-20 oil.
- For the 1.5L engine, add 3.7 US quarts of 0W-20 oil.
4. Clean and Reset:
- Clean up any spilled oil.
- Reset the maintenance minder by turning the ignition switch to the “ON” position and holding down the trip odometer reset button for 10 seconds.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Honda Civic’s Oil
- Check your oil level regularly and top up as needed.
- Change your oil and filter according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
- Use high-quality oil and genuine Honda parts to ensure optimal performance.
FAQ on Honda Civic Oil Capacity
How much oil does a 2.0L Honda Civic take?
A 2.0L Honda Civic requires 4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) of 0W-20 oil during an oil change.
How much oil does a 1.5L Honda Civic take?
A 1.5L Honda Civic requires 3.7 US quarts (3.5 liters) of 0W-20 oil during an oil change.
Why is it important to use the correct oil capacity?
Using the incorrect oil capacity can lead to engine damage, reduced efficiency, and potential oil leaks. Overfilling the engine with oil can cause increased oil pressure, foaming, and reduced lubrication effectiveness.
| Step | Characteristics | Advice |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Remove Splash Shield | Use a #3 Phillips screwdriver and flathead screwdriver to remove the screws and bolts holding the splash shield in place. |
| 2 | Drain Oil | Place an oil pan under the drain plug. Use a 17mm wrench or socket to loosen the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely. Replace the drain plug with a new crush washer and torque it to 30 foot pounds. |
| 3 | Refill Oil | For the 2.0L engine, add 4.4 US quarts of 0W-20 oil. For the 1.5L engine, add 3.7 US quarts of 0W-20 oil. |
| 4 | Clean and Reset | Clean up any spilled oil. Reset the maintenance minder by turning the ignition switch to the “ON” position and holding down the trip odometer reset button for 10 seconds. |
| Additional Tips | ||
| Check your oil level regularly and top up as needed. | ||
| Change your oil and filter according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. | ||
| Use high-quality oil and genuine Honda parts to ensure optimal performance. | ||
| Key Points on Engine Oil Quantity | ||
| Avoid overfilling the engine with oil. | ||
| Optimal oil capacity is between 3.5 and 4 liters. | ||
| Adjust oil change frequency based on driving conditions and vehicle usage. | ||
| Overfilling can lead to increased oil pressure, reduced engine efficiency, potential for oil leaks, and foaming of the oil. |








