Plenty of drivers gravitate toward the Honda Odyssey for more seating capacity or added cargo space—which has probably helped it remain on Honda’s lineup for 20-plus years. If you’re a Honda Odyssey owner who wants to extend the life of your vehicle, it helps to know your oil capacity.
One of the most crucial things you can do to keep your vehicle operating smoothly is to perform routine maintenance—and oil changes are a big part of that. But if you’re going to change the oil on your Honda Odyssey yourself, you’re going to need to know its oil capacity and what kind of engine oil to look for.
In the interest of saving you some time, Jerry
, the car insurance
app, has put together this guide for Honda Odyssey oil requirements—plus tips for how to lower your Honda Odyssey insurance cost
. Honda Odyssey engine oil capacity
What’s the Honda Odyssey’s engine oil capacity?
A vehicle’s oil capacity depends on the type of engine it uses, which can vary depending on factors like the vehicle’s make, model year or generation, and trim level.
For the 2015 Honda Odyssey’s engine, for example, the engine oil capacity is 4.5 quarts or about 4.3 liters. On a 2021 Honda Odyssey, however, the oil capacity is 5.7 quarts or about 5.4 liters.
What kind of oil does a Honda Odyssey need?
When it comes to picking engine oil, it’s important to follow your manufacturer’s requirements. Using the wrong type of engine oil could cause serious and expensive damage to your engine.
You can find your Honda Odyssey’s oil specifications in your owner’s manual.
For newer Honda Odysseys, Honda typically recommends using 0W-20 detergent oil with an API certification seal on the label. The “0” here refers to the oil’s viscosity (thickness) before the vehicle has started and while the engine is still “cold.”
The “20” refers to the engine oil’s viscosity during engine operating temperatures. “Detergent oil” implies there are certain additives in the oil to help reduce things like sludge buildup, rusting, and general wear and tear on your engine.
That said, Honda Odyssey required oil types can vary depending on the generation or model year. The 2002 Honda Odyssey, for example, requires 5W-20 motor oil.
As for brand options, Honda recommends using Genuine Honda Motor Oil, but other commercial options will do, as long as they meet your Honda Odyssey’s viscosity requirements.
Synthetic oil is generally okay to use, too, as long as it has the right viscosity grade and is API certified.
Honda doesn’t recommend any extra additives and warns that using the wrong one could affect your engine’s performance or cause damage.
Wondering what engine oil to pick for your Honda Odyssey? Here are just a few options you could consider:
For high-mileage Honda Odysseys: If your Honda Odyssey has gone the distance, high-mileage options like this one from STP
can help break up sludge build-up and improve efficiency, as well as help reduce leaks. A fully synthetic option: If you’d prefer to drive longer before you’ll need another oil change, consider using a synthetic option like this one from Valvoline
.
How often to change oil on a Honda Odyssey
How often you should change your Honda Odyssey’s engine oil might vary depending on the model year, what kind of oil you’re using, and what kind of driving conditions have been typical for you.
Honda typically recommends replacing a Honda Odyssey’s engine oil every 7,500 miles.
If you’re using synthetic engine oil, you might be able to drive longer distances before you’ll need an oil change, while driving conditions like dusty environments or frequent stop-and-go traffic could require you to get an oil change sooner.
Since when you’ll need an oil change can vary so widely, it’s a good idea to regularly check your oil and see how it’s doing. Experts recommend doing so about once a month or whenever you refuel your vehicle.
The following are some signs to watch for that show your Honda Odyssey might be ready for an oil change:
Engine oil has taken on a dark brown or black color
Engine oil has a gritty texture
Engine oil level is too low
Strange new noises are coming from the engine
Worsened engine performance
Burning, smoke, or oil smells coming from the engine
Check engine, oil pressure, and/or oil change indicator lights illuminate on your dashboard
How to change your oil and oil filter
Once you know what kind of oil you need, how much, and when to replace it, it’s time to get your oil change underway!
Before getting started, you’ll want to know where you can safely dispose of your old engine oil since it’s a hazardous material—don’t just dump it down your drain! Some cities offer drop-off locations for used engine oil, and so do some repair shops and car dealerships.
Once you’ve figured that out, here are some of the supplies you’ll need for your oil change:
Filter wrench (tool designed to remove old oil filters)
New washer for the drain bolt
After gathering everything you need, the first thing you’ll want to do is start your engine and have it run for a few minutes. This allows the oil to warm up a bit, which will make it easier to drain. Next, it’s time to lift your hood and get started:
Underneath your Honda Odyssey, remove the drain bolt and washer
Let the oil empty into your drain pan
As the oil continues to drain, remove the old oil filter
Install the new oil filter according to package instructions
When the oil stops draining, replace the drain bolt and use a new washer, tightening it to your owner’s manual’s specification (likely 29 lb-ft for newer Odysseys)
Return to the hood of your vehicle to refill the engine with fresh motor oil to the proper level
After changing your oil, it’s a good idea to turn on your car and let your engine run for about 30 seconds before you check the oil level. This will give you a more accurate measurement, and you’ll be able to top it off if necessary.
Once your oil is at the right level, you’re finished!
Don’t forget regular insurance policy maintenance
If you’re looking for ways to make more room in your monthly budget, taking care of routine maintenance like oil changes yourself is a great option, as long as you’re comfortable doing so.
If you’re looking for even more savings, try using the Jerry
app to shop around for car insurance. It only takes about 45 seconds to answer a few quick questions and start comparing customized quotes from up to 50+ top car insurance providers. As a licensed broker
, Jerry can even help you with switching to your new policy and canceling your old one.And unlike routine oil changes, using Jerry means you don’t have to waste time periodically searching for car insurance deals yourself. As your renewal period approaches, Jerry can automatically send you new quotes to help you make sure you’re still getting a good deal.
The best part? Drivers who make a switch with Jerry have saved an average of $800+ per year on their car insurance!
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