Oil changes are an essential maintenance task to keep your car in a healthy, running condition. However, the cost of getting this task done in the shop adds up quickly. That’s why one of the best ways to keep costs low without sacrificing your car’s quality is to do your own oil change!

Since a DIY oil change looks a little different for every car,

Jerry

, the

car insurance

expert, has created this guide that covers everything you need to know about oil changes for your Honda Pilot. We've got the 2017 Honda Pilot oil capacity, the type of oil required, steps to follow for a successful oil change, and even how to save money on your

Honda Pilot insurance costs

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2017 Honda Pilot engine oil capacity

If you’re due for an

oil and filter change

, one of the first things you need to know is the 2017 Honda Pilot oil capacity. This model has a 3.5L V6 engine with an oil capacity of 5.7 quarts (5.39 liters) or 1.43 gallons. So, what exactly does this mean?

Engine oil capacity is the amount of oil your car needs for each oil change. You will likely also encounter another number—

engine displacement

, which is listed in the engine type code (3.5L V6 engine). This number indicates the volume taken up by the engine’s cylinder, which is 3.5 liters for a 2017 Honda Pilot.

What kind of oil does a 2017 Honda Pilot need?

When it comes to engine oils, each differs by manufacturer, type, and special additives. So, it’s important to buy the oil that is compatible with your vehicle and has the unique detergents and additives you need.

As a general rule of thumb, always go with your manufacturer’s recommendation, which is Genuine Honda motor oil 0w-20 for a 2017 Honda Pilot. It's up to you whether you use a synthetic or conventional oil.

But why does the oil type matter? Each oil uses a naming convention to indicate the temperature range that allows the oil to retain its viscosity (thickness). Buying the oil that fits your car’s recommended oil type is important in reducing unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle, no matter the conditions.

In a 0W-20 oil type, “0” means that the oil is stable at freezing temperatures. Similarly, “W” stands for winter, communicating that the oil remains thin enough to work in winter weather.

The “20” represents how the oil will flow at high, normal operating temperatures (typically of 212 degrees Fahrenheit).

MORE:

Ultimate FRAM oil filter guide

How often to change the oil on a 2017 Honda Pilot

So, when should you change your 2017 Honda Pilot’s motor oil? The manufacturer recommends changing your motor oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles as part of your

basic car maintenance schedule

. However, there is a significant difference in this recommended range.

To land on the perfect moment for an oil change, check your oil levels regularly so that you know what condition the oil is in. Some drivers check the oil every other refuel, whereas others check the oil every month. No matter what works best for you, this is one of the most foolproof ways to stay on top of your Honda Pilot’s oil maintenance.

However, being on top of oil changes is often easier said than done. If you notice any of these signs, you are likely overdue for oil maintenance:

The oil’s color is dark brown or black (A sign of clean oil is its light brown or amber color, like a cup of tea. Dirty oil is like a cup of soda.)

Coarse or gritty feeling to the oil

Engine starts making strange noises (“Clattering,” ticking, or tapping sounds are some common signs of dirty oil)

Strange smells, especially of oil, smoke, or burning

Worsening performance

MORE:

What does the check engine light mean?

How to change your oil and oil filter

Now, it’s time to change your oil! This maintenance task can cost between $50 and $125 at the shop, but it’s also a cheap and easy DIY project.

Before starting, gather your supplies. You’ll need a socket wrench, drain pan, filter wrench (this unique tool specifically helps remove the old oil filter), replacement oil filter, and 5.7 quarts of SAE 0W-20 premium motor oil.

Kick-off the project by turning the vehicle on to warm up the engine to normal operating temperature. In average weather conditions, this will take 5 minutes or so. Once you’ve reached this optimal temperature, turn the engine off and

open the hood of your car

Then, here’s the step-by-step for changing the engine oil:

Unscrew and remove the oil fill cap

Get underneath the engine and position the oil drain pan beneath the oil drain

Use the socket wrench to remove the oil drain bolt and washer, draining the old oil into the drain pan

Remove the old oil filter with the filter wrench and allow the oil to continue draining into the pan

Install the new oil filter

Return the oil drain bolt to its spot and use a new washer to tighten the bolt to 29 lb-ft

Add the new oil from the top of the engine—check the oil level as you go by using the dipstick to fill the engine to the full Honda Pilot oil capacity.

Screw and tighten the fill cap back into place

Before you’re done, double-check your work to make sure the oil filter and drain bolt are installed correctly! To do this, close the hood and turn the engine on, letting it run for a few minutes. The dashboard’s

oil pressure light

should turn off and there should be no oil leaks. If you spot one, the leak may be a sign that the oil filter or drain bolt was installed incorrectly.

Finally: clean-up! Never pour dirty oil on the ground or in a garbage bin. Instead, pour it into a sealable container and bring it to your local recycling center. The center will make sure the oil is safely disposed of as hazardous waste.

MORE:

What happens if you put the wrong fuel in your car?

Don’t forget regular insurance policy maintenance

Oil maintenance is essential to keep your car in clean and running condition for years to come! However, regular oil changes are just a piece of the puzzle—staying on top of other routine maintenance tasks is just as important for extending your car’s life.

Regular insurance policy maintenance is one of these tasks yet often goes forgotten. That’s why

Jerry

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With Jerry’s help, you can automate your insurance policy maintenance so you don’t have to worry about it yourself!