How to Change the Oil on Your Honda

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these items to make the job go smoothly. Having everything ready means you won't have to stop halfway through to find a tool or supply.

• New oil (check your Honda's manual for the right type and amount)
• New oil filter
• Oil drain pan
• Wrench or socket set
• Oil filter wrench
• Jack and jack stands (if you need to lift your car)
• Rags or paper towels
• Funnel
• Work gloves (optional, but helpful)
• Safety glasses (optional, but recommended)

Most of these items are inexpensive and available at any auto parts store. If you don't own some of these tools, you may want to borrow them from a friend or rent them from an auto parts store. Having the right tools makes the job safer and easier.

Step 1: Warm Up Your Engine

Run your Honda for a few minutes so the oil becomes warm. Warm oil flows better and drains more completely than cold oil. This step is important because it helps you get all the old oil out of the engine, which is the whole point of an oil change.

After the engine has run for a few minutes, turn it off and wait a minute or two before you start work. This gives the oil time to drain back into the pan while still being warm enough to flow freely. Don't skip this step—it really does make a difference in how much old oil you can remove.

Step 2: Locate and Remove the Drain Plug

Find the oil drain plug underneath your Honda. Your owner's manual shows exactly where it is located. If you're not sure, look at the manual or search online for your specific Honda model year. Once you find it, place the drain pan directly underneath the plug to catch the old oil.

Use your wrench to loosen the plug by turning it counterclockwise. Once it's loose enough, finish unscrewing it by hand—but be careful, as the oil may still be warm. Let all the old oil drain into the pan completely. This process takes several minutes, so be patient and let gravity do the work. The more old oil you drain now, the cleaner your engine will be.

Step 3: Replace the Drain Plug

Once the oil has stopped dripping, wipe the drain plug clean with a rag or paper towel. Make sure there's no old oil or debris stuck to it. A clean plug helps create a good seal when you put it back in.

Screw the drain plug back in by hand first to avoid cross-threading it. Once it's hand-tight, use your wrench to tighten it the rest of the way. Don't over-tighten it—you just want it snug enough that it won't leak. If you tighten it too much, you can damage the threads or the plug itself.

Step 4: Change the Oil Filter

Find the oil filter on your Honda. Your owner's manual shows its location. Place the drain pan underneath the filter before you remove it, because some old oil will spill out when you take it off. It's better to catch that oil than to have it drip on your driveway.

Use an oil filter wrench to turn the filter counterclockwise until it comes off. Be careful—there may still be warm oil inside the filter. Once the old filter is off, wipe the filter mounting surface clean with a rag. Any dirt or debris left behind can prevent the new filter from sealing properly.

Take your new filter and coat the rubber gasket (the ring on top) lightly with new oil from the can. This helps create a good seal. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the mounting surface, then turn it another three-quarter turn. Don't use the wrench to tighten the filter—your hand is the right tool for this job.

Step 5: Add New Oil

Open the oil filler cap on top of your engine. It usually has an oil can symbol on it. Place a funnel in the opening to prevent spills. Pour in the amount of new oil your Honda needs. Check your owner's manual for the exact amount—this is important because using too much or too little oil can cause problems.

Once you've poured in the oil, replace the cap and make sure it's tight. Take a moment to look around the engine and check that you haven't spilled any oil on hot engine parts. If you have, wipe it up with a rag to prevent smoke or fire hazards.

Step 6: Check the Oil Level

Start your engine and let it run for about 30 seconds, then turn it off. This circulates the new oil through the engine and helps the oil filter fill up with oil. Wait a minute or two for the oil to settle back into the pan before you check the level.

Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a rag, and put it back all the way into the tube. Then pull it out again to read the level. The oil should reach the full mark on the dipstick. If it's low, add a little more oil and check again. It's better to check twice than to overfill your engine.

Step 7: Dispose of Old Oil

Never pour old oil down the drain, into the ground, or into the trash. Used oil is a hazardous material that can harm the environment. Many communities have laws against improper oil disposal, and you could face fines.

Take your old oil to a recycling center, auto parts store, or service station that accepts used oil. Most of these places take it for free, and some even pay a small amount for it. Many auto parts stores will take your old oil even if you didn't buy the new oil from them. Call ahead to confirm they accept used oil and ask about their hours.

When to Change Your Oil

Check your Honda's owner manual for the recommended oil change interval. This is how often Honda suggests you change your oil based on your specific model and year. Newer Hondas often go longer between oil changes than older models because of better oil and engine design.

Your manual is the best source for what's right for your vehicle. Some Hondas may go 5,000 miles between changes, while others may go 10,000 miles or more. Following the manufacturer's recommendation helps keep your engine healthy and running well for years to come.

Tips for Success

Work on a level surface so your Honda sits flat and you get an accurate oil level reading. If you're working in a garage or driveway, make sure the ground is level. This matters more than you might think—if your car is tilted, the dipstick reading won't be accurate.

Keep a rag or roll of paper towels nearby throughout the job. Oil changes can get messy, and you'll want to wipe up spills right away. Don't let old oil sit on your driveway or garage floor—it can stain and become a safety hazard.

If you're uncomfortable working under your car or using a jack, there's no shame in taking your Honda to a shop. A professional oil change costs money, but it ensures the job is done right and safely.

Key Takeaways

• Gather all tools and supplies before you start, including new oil, a new filter, a drain pan, and wrenches.
• Warm up your engine for a few minutes so the oil drains more completely.
• Drain the old oil, replace the drain plug, and change the oil filter carefully to avoid spills.
• Add the correct amount of new oil as specified in your owner's manual.
• Check the oil level with the dipstick after the engine runs briefly and settles.
• Dispose of old oil responsibly at a recycling center or auto parts store—never pour it down the drain.
• Follow your Honda's recommended oil change interval from the owner's manual.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the oil in my Honda?

The answer depends on your specific Honda model and year. Check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendation. Newer Hondas may go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes, while older models might need a change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Some people change their oil more often than recommended, which doesn't hurt, but changing it less often than recommended can damage your engine.

What type of oil should I use in my Honda?

Your owner's manual specifies the correct oil type and viscosity for your Honda. Common types include 0W-20, 5W-30, and 10W-30. Using the wrong type of oil can affect your engine's performance and longevity. Don't guess—look it up in your manual or ask at an auto parts store. They can help you find the right oil if you tell them your Honda's year, make, and model.

Can I change my Honda's oil myself if I've never done it before?

Yes, many people change their own oil for the first time and do it successfully. The job is straightforward if you follow the steps carefully and take your time. Read through all the steps before you start, gather your tools, and work slowly. If you get stuck, you can watch instructional videos online for your specific Honda model. However, if you're not comfortable working under your car or using a jack, it's perfectly fine to have a professional do it.

What should I do if I spill oil while changing it?

If you spill a small amount of oil, wipe it up right away with rags or paper towels. For larger spills, you may need to use an absorbent material like kitty litter or oil absorbent pads to soak it up. Never wash oil down a drain. Once you've cleaned up the spill, dispose of the contaminated rags or absorbent material properly—many auto parts stores accept them.

How do I know if my oil level is correct using the dipstick?

The dipstick has two marks: a minimum mark and a maximum mark. The oil level should be between these two marks, with the goal being at or near the maximum mark. If the level is below the minimum mark, add oil. If it's above the maximum mark, you've added too much and should drain some out. Always check the level after the engine has run and then settled for a minute or two.