If you’ve spent all that money on a CR-V, the last think you want to do is get the engine oil type wrong or put some low-grade gunk in it. But just how do you decide which engine oil is best for your Honda CR-V?
Well, the truth is, the best motor oil for your Honda CR-V is influenced by various factors, top of which is the engine type. Other factors include climate, driving habits, and engine age. These requirements are usually based on the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle, which you can find in the owner’s manual.
If you need advice on the recommended oil for your Honda CR-V, below I explain the best oils for Honda CR-V vehicles and why it is crucial to use the right kind. I will also recommend a couple of reputable oil brands you can pick from.
Best oils for Honda CR-V vehicles
Oil protects engine parts from dirt, toxic deposits, and corrosion by maintaining a lubricating coating between moving parts and improving seals between essential components.
The right oil and viscosity are essential for your CR-V engine’s longevity.
Based on Honda CR-V’s model generation, year of manufacture, engine type, and oil capacity, I have created a table below to guide you in selecting the best oil for your vehicle.
Best engine oil type for First Generation
| Year | Engine size | Engine number | Oil capacity with fuel filter | Oil capacity without fuel filter | Oil type (synthetic) |
| 1997 | 2.0L | B20B4 | 4.4 quarts | 3.7 quarts | 5W-30 |
| 1998 | 2.0L | B20B4 | 4.4 quarts | 3.7 quarts | 5W-30 |
| 1999 | 2.0L | B20Z2 | 4.4 quarts | 3.7 quarts | 5W-30 |
| 2000 | 2.0L | B20Z2 | 4.4 quarts | 3.7 quarts | 5W-30 |
| 2001 | 2.0L | B20Z2 | 4.4 quarts | 3.7 quarts | 5W-30 |
Best engine oil type for Second Generation
| Year | Engine size | Engine number | Oil capacity with fuel filter | Oil capacity without fuel filter | Oil type (synthetic) |
| 2002 | 2.4L | K24A1 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
| 2003 | 2.4L | K24A1 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
| 2004 | 2.4L | K24A1 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
| 2005 | 2.4L | K24A1 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
| 2006 | 2.4L | K24A1 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
Best engine oil type for Third Generation
| Year | Engine size | Engine number | Oil capacity with fuel filter | Oil capacity without fuel filter | Oil type (synthetic) |
| 2007 | 2.4L | K24Z1 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
| 2008 | 2.4L | K24Z1 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
| 2009 | 2.4L | K24Z1 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
| 2010 | 2.4L | K24Z6 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
| 2011 | 2.4L | K24Z6 | 4.4 quarts | 4.2 quarts | 5W-20 |
Best engine oil type for Fourth Generation
| Year | Engine size | Engine number | Oil capacity with fuel filter | Oil capacity without fuel filter | Oil type (synthetic) |
| 2012 | 2.4L | K24Z7 | 4.2 quarts | 4 quarts | 0W-20 |
| 2013 | 2.4L | K24Z7 | 4.2 quarts | 4 quarts | 0W-20 |
| 2014 | 2.4L | K24Z7 | 4.2 quarts | 4 quarts | 0W-20 |
| 2015 | 2.4L | K24W9 | 4.6 quarts | 4.4 quarts | 0W-20 |
| 2016 | 2.4L | K24W9 | 4.6 quarts | 4.4 quarts | 0W-20 |
Best engine oil type for Fifth Generation
| Year | Engine size | Engine number | Oil capacity with fuel filter | Oil capacity without fuel filter | Oil type (synthetic) |
| 2017 | 1.5L 2.4L | L15BE Turbo K24W9 | 3.7 quarts 4.6 quarts | 3.4 quarts 4.4 quarts | 0W-20 0W-20 |
| 2018 | 1.5L 2.4L | L15BE Turbo K24W9 | 3.7 quarts 4.6 quarts | 3.4 quarts 4.4 quarts | 0W-20 0W-20 |
| 2019 | 1.5L 2.4L | L15BE Turbo K24W9 | 3.7 quarts 4.6 quarts | 3.4 quarts 4.4 quarts | 0W-20 0W-20 |
| 2020 | 1.5L 2.0L | L15BE Turbo LFB2 | 3.7 quarts 4 quarts | 3.4 quarts 3.7 quarts | 0W-20 0W-20 |
| 2021 | 1.5L 2.0L | L15BE Turbo LFB2 | 3.7 quarts 4 quarts | 3.4 quarts 3.7 quarts | 0W-20 0W-20 |
| 2022 | 1.5L 2.0L | L15BE Turbo LFB2 | 3.7 quarts 4 quarts | 3.4 quarts 3.7 quarts | 0W-20 0W-20 |
You might notice from the table above that synthetic oil is the recommended oil type for all the CR-Vs listed. Synthetic oils are recommended because they provide better engine protection, cleaner engines, and better viscosity compared to regular oils.
Synthetic oil changes are also less frequent than conventional oil changes, reducing the number of trips to your mechanic.
What to consider when choosing the best oil for your Honda CR-V
Each oil in the market has been developed for a specific car type or brand because each engine is different. Choosing the Honda CR-V engine oil type can be a tricky task.
To pick the right oil type, you should consider the following factors.
1. Viscosity Grade
Viscosity determines how well the oil flows at different temperatures. Every oil has a viscosity grade and is usually described with two numbers having a “W” in between.
The number(s) before the “W” usually indicates the oil’s viscosity when the temperature is cold. Its numbers range from 0W to 25W, depending on the weather. For example, a 10W oil will be more viscous and thicker than a 0W at -10degrees, and the difference will be more significant at -20degrees.
The numbers after the “W” indicate the oil’s viscosity when the engine is running. Its numbers range from 8 to 60, and the most common is between 16 and 40. The lower the number, the lower the viscosity at 100% or the thinner the oil.
Car manufacturers have begun to lower the viscosity to improve their car’s fuel economy. If the oil is less viscous and thinner, less energy is needed to pump it and push it through the engine block, reducing fuel consumption.
You can find the correct oil viscosity for your CR-V model on the oil cap or in your owner’s manual.
Handy Hint: If you want to possibly save fuel, have you considered using the green ECON button in your CR-V?
2. Oil type
Whether to use a synthetic or a non-synthetic oil brand is usually based on preference. Non-synthetic or conventional oil is petroleum-based, and it functions well for most engines.
Synthetic oils are artificial oils designed to withstand higher temperatures and high tech engines, making them a better option.
3. Oil standard
Different acronyms represent oil standards, such as API (American Petroleum Institute) and ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers Association). This implies that the product complies with or exceeds the criteria set by these organizations.
Related questions about Honda CR-V engine oil type
What type of oil does Honda recommend?
Honda recommends Honda Genuine Motor Oil. They do, however, allow for the use of premium-grade conventional motor oil or a full synthetic blend as an alternative.
The oil must meet the viscosity grade requirements listed in your owner’s manual. It must also be labeled with an API Certification Seal, showing that the oil is energy-efficient and meets the most recent API criteria.
How often does your Honda CR-V need an oil change?
For conventional or mineral oil, Honda recommends changing the oil and filter of your Honda CRV every 3,000-5,000 miles. Synthetic oil should be changed every 7,500 to 10,000 miles on average.
Can I use 0W-20 instead of 5W-20 in my Honda CR-V?
Winter-grade oils like 0W20 and 5W20 are made to withstand extreme weather. They allow your engine to run at peak efficiency and are similar. Although both are low-temperature motor oils, 0W20 is thinner in freezing temperatures.
Only use the oil specified in your owner’s manual or as directed by your manufacturer.
What oil brand is best for your Honda CR-V?
Genuine Honda 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil (view on Amazon)
Honda Genuine 0w-20 is manufactured explicitly by Honda engineers for Honda vehicles. They are known for their top quality and low viscosity, allowing oil to circulate and flow smoothly. Honda’s 0W-20 oil, with its thinner consistency, is highly effective engine oil.
It is created to give optimal engine protection in any operating condition for Honda owners.
Castrol- EDGE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil (view on Amazon)
Castrol Edge’s fluid Titanium Technology has been shown to increase engine efficiency. It helps your car perform at its best by providing improved motor oil strength for engines that work harder owing to higher engine pressures.
Liqui Moli 5w-40 Motor Oil (view on Amazon)
This fully synthetic product provides optimal protection in extremely hot and cold regions and intense driving circumstances.
I believe it employs a unique process to help high-performance engines operate at maximum efficiency.
Handy Hint: If your Honda is burning through oil quickly, it could be due to 3 common reasons.
Conclusion
Regular oil changes are one of the most important aspects of auto care and maintenance. Today’s market offers a vast range of motor oil alternatives, which can be found in auto shops, department stores, and online.
Choosing the wrong oil type for your car can have serious consequences, including long-term engine damage.
I hope this guide to the best engine oil type for your Honda CR-V helps you not make the same mistakes others have!
