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Top 5 Best Oil For Honda Civic

Honda is of course a big time brand name when it comes to the automotive industry, and the Honda Civic is one of the most popular models from this auto manufacturer.

Of course, finding the right best oil for Honda Civics can be hard. After all, there is a plethora of choices out there, and you may not know which one to go with.

Today we are here to help you find the best oil for Honda Civic. We’ve got a great buyer’s guide, we’ve answered all of your questions, and reviewed some of the top products as well.

Click here to skip to our recommended pick!

best oil for honda civic

No, Civic not a huge truck or anything like that, just a normal, little, affordable car, one with some pretty decent fuel mileage too.
Now, that being said, just like any other vehicle, the Honda Civic requires regular maintenance to remain in good working condition. A big part of this is ensuring that your Civic has the best possible oil for the engine, and that you change it whenever required.

Image
Product
Best Overall
ZEPRO Eco Medalist 0W-20 Engine Oil
  • Ideal for turbo charged Civics
  • Great for fuel economy
  • Also ideal for low temperatures
Honda Approved
Honda Genuine 0W-20 Motor Oil - Manfuacturer Recommendation
  • Great for newer engines
  • Keeps engines clean
  • Reduces friction
For High Mileage
Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-30
  • Ideal for high mileage Civic
  • Good fuel economy
  • Removes and prevents buildups
Idemitsu Full Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil
  • Minimal oil burn off
  • Great for fuel economy
  • Good for newer engines
AmazonBasics 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
  • Great for newer engines
  • Optimal engine protection
  • Prevents buildups and rusting
Castrol GTX MAGNATEC 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
  • Ideal for newer engines
  • Protects against buildups, wear, and corrosion
  • Helps maximise fuel economy while minimizing emissions
Liqui Moly TOP TEC 0W20 Engine Oil
  • Great for long term protection
  • Ideal for older vehicles
  • Maximum rejuvenation, cleaning, and protection

Our Overall #1 Rated Pick

ZEPRO Eco Medalist 0W-20 Engine Oil

ZEPRO Eco Medalist 0W-20 Engine Oil

API Premium Grade 0W-20 Detergent Oil has enhanced thermal stability with high temperature deposit control technology to help protect turbocharged engines. This particular option is designed to reduce wear and friction, and thanks to the specific viscosity rating, it performs very well in low temperatures.
The detergents formula used here helps to remove old buildups throughout the engine and also helps prevent new buildups. API Premium Grade 0W-20 Detergent Oil is also a good option for improving fuel economy. Finally, this is actually one of the more eco-friendly oils out there.

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Honda Civic Oil Recommended by Manufacturer

When it comes to finding the best engine oil for Honda Civics, the first place you always need to look is in the owner’s manual. So, we took a look at the 2019 Honda Civic owner’s manual.
Yes, the 20202 Honda Civic Coupe, and a couple of other specialized versions are on the market already, but not the basic Civic, so we stuck with the 2019 model. Let’s remember that the 2019 Honda Civic has a total oil capacity of 3.4 quarts.
At any rate, according to the official manufacturer’s owner’s manual for the 2019 Honda Civic, there are specific oil that are recommended above all others. Right now we want to take a look at both of the best engine oils for Honda Civics according to the manufacturer.

Honda Civic Oil Recommended By Mileage

Are you short on time or just want a quick answer?

Check out our list below for a summary of our results.

  1. ZEPRO Eco Medalist 0W-20 Engine Oil
  2. Honda Genuine 0W-20 Motor Oil - Manfuacturer Recommendation
  3. Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-30 (For High Mileage Civic)
  4. Idemitsu Full Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil
  5. AmazonBasics 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
  6. Castrol GTX MAGNATEC 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
  7. Liqui Moly TOP TEC 0W20 Engine Oil

Something that you should be aware of is the fact that engines don’t all need the same oil, and here we are not talking about different engine types or even vehicle models. Here we are talking about mileage. That’s right people, newer engines and older engines don’t requite the same oil.
Sure, you could use good old Genuine 0W-20 Honda Oil for the full lifespan of your vehicle, but that would not exactly be ideal.
Newer engines generally benefit from motor oil that helps provide good protection from wear and friction, but also improves overall engine performance and fuel economy. It’s a new engine, so it should still be in prime condition.
However, older car models where the engines have already gone through a good deal of use are different. Sure, performance and fuel economy is still important here, but what is more important is maximum protection for older engines.
Oil for older engines needs to provide lots of protection, it needs to increase the lifespan of the engine, and even help seal and rejuvenate gaskets which may have begun wearing down.
So, let’s check out the Honda Civic recommended oil based on mileage. Let’s take a look at what the best engine oil for your Honda Civic in terms of how many miles are on the engine.

Mileage Recommended Products
0 – 75,000 Honda Genuine Motor Oil 0W-20
75,000 – 150,000 ZEPRO Eco Medalist 0W-20 Engine Oil
150,000-300,000 Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-30

Best Synthetic Oil for Honda Civic

Here we have a nice little selection of the best full synthetic oils for Honda Civics. Let’s take a closer look at each option right now. Keep in mind that the two recommended options from the manufacturer have already been reviewed above, so we’re going to leave those out of this section.

The top best product [hide]

ZEPRO Eco Medalist 0W-20 Engine Oil


ZEPRO Eco Medalist 0W-20 Engine Oil
Any kind of API Premium Grade 0W-20 detergent oil, such as the one we have linked to here, is also recommended by Honda for their Civics. Now, do keep in mind that this engine oil is of a much higher quality, it has more benefits, and is therefore also quite a bit more expensive. That being said, this is premium grade stuff with a lot of protection for engines, and therefore it is a good option to go with for older engines that already have quite a few miles on them. Also keep in mind that this oil is recommended for turbo charged engines, but can also be used for regular engines.
Pros
Ideal for turbo charged Civics
Great for fuel economy
Also ideal for low temperatures
Can also be used for normal Civic engines
Fairly eco-friendly
Additives to keep engine clean
Ideal for older engines
Cons
A bit pricey
Not ideal for newer engines

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Honda Genuine 0W-20 Motor Oil - Manfuacturer Recommendation


Honda Genuine 0W-20 Motor Oil - Manfuacturer Recommendation
Honda Genuine Motor Oil 0W-20 is indeed the top official recommendation from the manufacturer. Keep in mind that this is a fully synthetic type of motor oil. This particular motor oil has a great viscosity rating of 0W-20, and it is designed to be fairly thin. The relatively thin viscosity of this particular oil allows it to work very well in cold conditions. It helps to greatly protect your Honda Civic from wear and tear caused by cold starting your engine and simply operating at very low temperatures. It’s an excellent option for reducing friction, especially at low temperatures. This synthetic oil is quite clean and it helps to prevent the buildup of sludge within the system. Keep in mind that this oil should be used when your Civic is fairly new, as it performs very well in newer engines.
Pros
Great for newer engines
Keeps engines clean
Reduces friction
Great for lower temperatures and cold starts
Affordable price
Full oil change kit included
Cons
Not ideal for very hot climates
Not the best for clearing out old residue and buildups

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Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-30


Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-30
Here we have some motor oil which is designed for older vehicles with relatively high mileages on them. The reason for this is because it is made with special additives and cleaning agents which actually help to remove old buildups, while also preventing new ones from occurring. This particular oil, while still being 5W-30 in viscosity, is made to help seal gaskets, increase performance, and prevent additional wear on older engines. It does a great jog at drastically reducing friction between engine parts. Now, it is designed for lower operating temperatures, as it remains fairly thin in lower temperatures, but it does also feature excellent high temperature protection. Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-30 Motor Oil is also designed to provide great fuel economy. Something to note is that Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is technically designed for direct injection and turbocharged engines, but can also be used for regular engines if needed.
Pros
Ideal for high mileage Civic
Good fuel economy
Removes and prevents buildups
Good for most temperature levels
Best for direct injection and turbocharged engines
Cons
Not the best price
Not the best for newer engines

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Idemitsu Full Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil


Idemitsu Full Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil
This particular engine oil is designed for maximum cleanliness, which means that it suffers from less burn off, plus it also helps to maximize fuel economy. The friction modifying technology used in this oil is designed to reduce engine friction and wear as much as humanly possible. Idemitsu Full Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil is designed to minimize the buildup of various deposits, making it a great option for newer engines that are still quite clean and need to remain clean. Thanks to the viscosity rating of Idemitsu Full Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil, it performs extremely well in colder conditions and helps to protect your engine when doing a cold start or just while operating and low temperatures. Yes, this oil is of course API approved.
Pros
Minimal oil burn off
Great for fuel economy
Good for newer engines
Operates well at lower temperatures
Prevents deposits from building up
Great for engine performance
Cons
Will not reduce older buildups
Not the best for older engines

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AmazonBasics 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil


AmazonBasics 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
This particular oil is another good option to go with for newer engines. This is not high mileage engine oil, so it is made for relatively new vehicles, and yes, it is therefore made to optimize engine performance, plus it helps to redue deposits and buildups that can cause rusting and corrosion. AmazonBasics 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil is a long lasting option, as it is designed for longer drain intervals when compared to other oils. Yes, this oil is designed to minimize engine friction and wear, plus it’s got a very high resistance to thermal breakdown. Thanks to the viscosity rating of this oil, it performs very well in cool conditions and remains quite thin so that it can operate in extreme cold, and it’s therefore good for cold starts as well. This is a high performance option which helps increase fuel efficiency, it minimizes oil burn off, and it minimizes emissions too.
Pros
Great for newer engines
Optimal engine protection
Prevents buildups and rusting
Good for cold starts and low temperatures
Minimal burn off and maximum efficiency
Longer drain intervals
Cons
Not great for extreme heat
Not the best for older engines

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Castrol GTX MAGNATEC 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil


Castrol GTX MAGNATEC 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Here we have quite the high performance motor oil, one which also happens to come in at a very good price. Now, this option is also designed for fairly new engines, but thanks to its special design, it can also be used for higher mileage engines. Castrol 06006 GTX MAGNATEC 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil is made in order to provide a maximum level of protection against friction, and therefore helps to greatly reduce engine wear, and also reduces corrosion and rusting too. This oil is of course API certified and is also designed to provide a maximum amount of fuel economy, while also reducing burn off and emissions at the same time. Thanks to the viscosity rating of this oil, it’s great for cold temperatures and cold starts, but of course, it’s not overly ideal for extremely hot temperatures. Castrol 06006 GTX MAGNATEC 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil is also designed to prevent any sort of thermal breakdown, and it helps fight the buildup of harmful sludge and deposits too, thus keeping new engines new for much longer.
Pros
Ideal for newer engines
Protects against buildups, wear, and corrosion
Helps maximise fuel economy while minimizing emissions
Minimal burn off
Very good price
Cons
Not designed for older engines
May have some trouble in extreme temperatures

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Liqui Moly TOP TEC 0W20 Engine Oil


Liqui Moly TOP TEC 0W20 Engine Oil
Here we have another option which is designed for older engines, although it can also be used on newer engines. This specific formula is designed to help remove oil deposits and buildups, as well as to prevent new ones from occurring. This oil is therefore ideal for older engines that need increased protection, especially to increase the overall lifespan of the engine. The viscosity of this oil helps it to perform well in cold conditions and also improves cold start behaviour, plus it also helps reduce burn off, and emissions. Liqui Moly TOP TEC 0W20 Engine Oil is also designed to help improve fuel economy while rejuvenating older engines back to their former glory. It’s designed to prevent rusting and oxidization, it helps increase engine stability, and it allows for long periods of time between oil changes. Keep in mind that this stuff is technically not made for Hondas, but that said, it does still meet the needs and requirements of Honda Civic.
Pros
Great for long term protection
Ideal for older vehicles
Maximum rejuvenation, cleaning, and protection
Great for cold conditions
Long time between oil changes
Very high performance
Cons
Huge price tag
Technically not designed for Hondas
Overkill for newer engines

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Honda Civic Oil Type By Year

Something which you may not be aware of is that different Honda Civic models (from different years), may have different oil requirements compared to one another. Now, chances are pretty big that for the most part they’ll all need virtually the same oil and have the same specs, but there may be some notable differences. Let’s go through some of the most popular Honda Civic models by year to see what they oil requirements are like.

2016 Honda Civic Oil Type

The 2016 Honda Civic features either a 1.5 liter or 2.0 liter engine, depending on the specific model. The 2.0 liter engine comes with a standard 4 cylinder design capable of producing 158 horsepower. In terms of oil capacity, the 1.5 liter Honda Civic holds 3.7 quarts of oil, whereas the 2.0 liter engine model can hold 4.4 quarts of oil. The recommended oil type for the 2016 Honda Civic is SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil. It is not recommended to use a synthetic blend or natural engine oil, only full synthetic. This vehicle will get roughly 35 combined miles per gallon.

2015 Honda Civic Oil Type

Most 2015 Honda Civic models will come with a 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engine capable of producing up to 143 horsepower. The higher end models, such as the Civic LX Sedan, come with either manual transmission or continuously variable transmission. The oil capacity for this particular model comes in at 3.9 quarts. Honda recommends that fully synthetic 0W-20 motor oil be used, although 5W-20 motor oil can be used if needed. This vehicle will get roughly 32 combined miles per gallon.

2013 Honda Civic Oil Type

Most 2013 Honda Civics will feature a 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engine capable of putting out up to 140 horsepower, complete with a 5 speed automatic transmission and front wheel drive. This particular vehicle features an oil capacity of 3.9 quarts. Honda recommends that SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, by Idemitsu be used for the 2013 Honda Civic. This vehicle will get roughly 32 combined miles per gallon.

2012 Honda Civic Oil Type

Most 2012 Honda Civic models will come with a 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engine capable of producing 140 horsepower (besides the performance Si model). This vehicle will get roughly 31 combined miles per gallon. The 2012 Honda Civic features a total oil capacity of 3.9 quarts. The recommended engine oil for the 2012 Honda Civic is a high mileage 0W-20 viscosity oil.

2008 Honda Civic Oil Type

The 2008 Honda Civic also features a 1.8 liter engine with 4 cylinders capable of producing up to 140 horsepower. This vehicle is available in a standard manual 5 speed transmission as well as an automatic transmission. This vehicle will get roughly 29 combined miles per gallon. In terms of oil capacity, the 2008 Honda Civic can hold 3.9 quarts of engine oil. The recommended oil type for this model of car is SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil, by Eneos.

2001 Honda Civic Oil Type

The standard 2001 Honda Civic comes with a 4 cylinder 1.7 liter engine that can produce up to 127 horsepower. This vehicle will get roughly 31 combined miles per gallon. The 2001 Honda Civic can hold 3.7 quarts of motor oil. The recommended oil type for this model of car is SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil, by Eneos.

Best Oils For Honda Civic Buyer’s Guide & FAQ

Now that we have looked at all of the possibilities in terms of the best oil for Honda Civics, let’s take a closer look at some of the important things that you need to know about your Honda Civic and its oil.

What Kind of Oil does a Honda Civic Take?

Most Honda Civics, the newer models, require 0W-20 fully synthetic motor oil to be used. Older models sometimes may also use 5W-20 motor oil. Generally speaking, Honda Civics require oil with a lower viscosity rating capable of remaining fairly thin in cooler temperatures.

How to Change Oil on Honda Civic

Something you will have to do on a regular basis is to get the oil changed. After all, no engine oil lasts for ever. If you need to change the oil in your Honda Civic, but don’t know exactly how to do so, here we have included a nifty tutorial video to help you along your way.

How to Reset Oil Indicator on Honda Civic

Sometimes, even when you have just performed an oil change, the oil sensor light will not turn off. This is especially the case in older models. If you have just performed an oil change, but the oil change indicator light is still on, you will need to reset it. Follow the steps below to reset the oil change indicator light on your Honda Civic.
Insert your key into the ignition, and turn it to the “On” position but do not start the engine.
Press the “SEL” button on the steering column control panel until the words “Oil Life” appear on the odometer.
Press and hold the “SEL” button for approximately 10 seconds or until the “Oil Life” display begins to blink. Release the button when the display blinks.
Press and hold the “SEL” button for five seconds until the display flashes and the “Oil Life” display resets to 100 percent.

Honda Civics & Oil Viscosity

Something that is important to note about Honda Civic oil is that it needs to be of the right viscosity. The oil for this type of car, for most newer models, requires a viscosity rating of 0W-20, with a few exceptions requiring 5W-20 viscosity. It is important to note that these vehicles require oil which has the ability to stay fairly thin even in cold temperatures.

Some Quick Factors to Look for When Purchasing Oil for Honda Civic

Just so you are perfectly clear on what you need to look out for when purchasing motor oil for your Honda Civic, let’s quickly go over the most important considerations.
Be sure to get oil with the proper viscosity rating for the model of car in question.
Keep in mind how many miles are on your car. Older engines require oil designed to maximize the lifespan, whereas newer engines do well with oil designed to increase performance.
Make sure to research how much oil your Civic can hold, and then make a purchase based on that.
Pay attention to important features such as cleaning and protection, thermal breakdown, emissions levels, and oil burn off rates.

Which Engine Oil is Best for Honda Civic?

  • Genuine Honda Motor Oil 0W-20
  • API Premium Grade 0W-20 Detergent Oil
  • Idemitsu Full Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil

What Type of Oil Does a Honda Civic Take?

The oil for this type of car, for most newer models, requires a viscosity rating of 0W-20, with a few exceptions requiring 5W-20 viscosity.

  • Castrol 06006 GTX MAGNATEC 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
  • Liqui Moly TOP TEC 0W20 Engine Oil
  • Amsoil Boosted XL 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil

How Much is Honda Civic Oil?

You can expect to spend between $30 and $100 for Honda Civic oil. Here are the top products that come in at the lowest prices.

  • AmazonBasics 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
  • Idemitsu Full Synthetic 0W-20 Engine Oil
  • API Premium Grade 0W-20 Detergent Oil

How Much Oil does a Honda Civic Take?

Depending on the model, your average Honda Civic will hold between 3.7 and 3.9 quarts of oil.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the most important thing for you to do is to always research the specific model of Honda Civic that you have. The worst thing you could do here is to use the wrong kind of oil for your Honda Civic. Remember that the vast majority of models require fully synthetic 0W-20 oil. Today we have reviewed 7 such products including both of the ones recommended by the manufacturer, and we would absolutely recommend sticking with these particular products.

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