Honda CR-V oil types and amounts depend on the year and engine. Most models from 2012 to now use 0W-20 synthetic oil. Models from 2011 and older often use 5W-20; it is helpful to understand the differences in 5W-20 vs 5W-30 if you live in a climate with extreme temperature swings.
To choose the right oil for your Honda CR-V, first look under the hood at the oil filler cap, as the required type is usually printed there. You should also check your owner’s manual for exact specifications and ensure the oil bottle has an official API Certification Seal.
While Honda recommends following the cap instructions exactly, some people use a thicker oil like 10W-30 for older, high-mileage cars in hot weather to reduce oil burning. However, this can lower gas mileage.
Synthetic oil is required or highly recommended for most models built after 2011, especially for turbo and hybrid engines. Synthetic oil is the best choice because it lasts longer, keeps the engine cleaner, and protects parts better in extreme temperatures.
Keep in mind, North American CR-Vs run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Hybrid models use this same gasoline for their internal engines along with an electric motor. While diesel models exist in some foreign markets, standard models in the U.S. and Canada are powered by gasoline.
Honda CRV Oil Capacity and Oil Type Lookup
Type the year-make of your Honda CR-V in the SEARCH box.
E.g: 2019 Honda 1.5L
| Year | Model | Engine | Oil Capacity (w. oil filter / w.o oil filter) | Oil Type | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Honda CR-V | 2.0L | 4 quarts / 3.7 quarts | 10W-30 (Above -10) 5W-30 (Below 35) |  Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w30 |
| 2000 | Honda CR-V | 2.0L | 4 quarts / 3.7 quarts | 10W-30 (Above -10) 5W-30 (Below 35) | Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w30 |
| 2001 | Honda CR-V | 2.0L | 4 quarts / 3.7 quarts | 10W-30 (Above -10) 5W-30 (Below 35) | Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w30 |
| 2002 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 5W20 |  Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w20 |
| 2003 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 5W20 | Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w20 |
| 2004 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 5W20 | Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w20 |
| 2005 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 5W20 | Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w20 |
| 2006 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 5W20 | Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w20 |
| 2007 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 5W20 | Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w20 |
| 2008 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 5W20 | Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w20 |
| 2009 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 5W20 | Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5w20 |
| 2010 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 0W20 |  Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2011 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2012 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2013 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2014 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.4 quarts / 4.1 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2015 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.6 quarts / 4.3 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2016 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.6 quarts / 4.3 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2017 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.6 quarts / 4.3 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2017 | Honda CR-V | 1.5L Turbo | 3.7 quarts / 3.4 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2018 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 4.6 quarts / 4.3 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2018 | Honda CR-V | 1.5L Turbo | 3.7 quarts / 3.4 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2019 | Honda CR-V | 2.4L | 3.7 quarts / 3.4 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2019 | Honda CR-V | 1.5L Turbo | 4.6 quarts / 4.3 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2020 | Honda CR-V | 2.0L | 4 quarts / 3.7 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2020 | Honda CR-V | 1.5L Turbo | 3.7 quarts / 3.4 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2021 | Honda CR-V | 1.5L Turbo | 3.7 quarts / 3.4 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2021 | Honda CR-V | 2.0L | 4 quarts / 3.7 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2022 | Honda CR-V | 2.0L | 4 quarts / 3.7 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2022 | Honda CR-V | 1.5L Turbo | 3.7 quarts / 3.4 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2023 | Honda CR-V | 2.0L | 4.2 quarts / 3.9 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2023 | Honda CR-V | 1.5L Turbo | 3.7 quarts / 3.4 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2024 | Honda CR-V | 2.0L | 4.2 quarts / 3.9 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
| 2024 | Honda CR-V | 1.5L Turbo | 3.7 quarts / 3.4 quarts | 0W20 | Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0w20 |
Related: Best Oil For Honda CRV
Featured Engine Oils for Honda CRV 2007 to Present
The most important thing to look for is the API Certification Seal. Here’s what you need to know:
- 2022–Present: Look for oil with API SP or ILSAC GF-6A certifications.
- 2017–2021: These models need API SN-Plus or API SP to protect the turbocharger.
- 2012–2016: Use oil with an API SN certification or higher.
Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-20
Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W20 Motor Oil
Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-20 is a full synthetic is an aftermarket equivalent for third-generation Honda CR-Vs (2007–2011) that have surpassed the 75,000-mile mark. Mobil claims that it can clean out existing sludge while guaranteeing 15,000 miles of protection between changes.
Quick Specs:
- Type: Advanced Full Synthetic
- Viscosity (100°C): 8.3 mm²/s
- Pour Point: -36°C
- Flash Point: 233°C
- Certifications: API SP, ILSAC GF-7A
If you have noticed increased oil consumption or a noisier engine as your CR-V ages, this formula provides the solution through specialized seal conditioners and friction-reducing components.
Other Compatibilities:
- Chrysler MS-6395
- Ford WSS-M2C945-A/B1
- Ford WSS-M2C960-A1
Related: Honda ATF DW-1 Equivalent [Safe Alternatives To Use]
Castrol GTX Full Synthetic 5W-20
Castrol GTX Full Synthetic 5W-20 Motor Oil
Castrol GTX Full Synthetic 5W-20 is a full synthetic motor oil and a high-performance aftermarket equivalent for third-generation Honda CR-Vs (2007–2011). This formula focuses on extending engine life by neutralizing the impact of high heat, frequent short trips, and heavy traffic.
Quick Specs:
- Type: Full Synthetic
- Viscosity (100°C): 8.62 mm²/s
- Pour Point: -42°C
- Flash Point: 200°C
- Certifications: API SQ, ILSAC GF-7
Castrol GTX is engineered to clean away old sludge while providing 1.3X better protection against new deposits compared to industry limits.
Other Compatibilities:
- Ford WSS-M2C945-B1
- Ford WSS-M2C960-A1
Motul Asian Import 5W-20
Motul Asian Import 5W20 Synthetic Oil
Motul Asian Import 5W-20 is a Technosynthese synthetic lubricant and a specialized aftermarket equivalent for Honda CR-V.
This “Fuel Economy” oil is specifically engineered for recent gasoline and hybrid engines to reduce internal friction and improve engine response.
Quick Specs:
- Type: Technosynthese (Synthetic)
- Viscosity (100°C): 8.4 mm2/s
- Pour Point: -47.0°C
- Flash Point: 229.0°C
- Certifications: API SP, ILSAC GF-6A
If you use your CR-V for frequent city driving, this oil addresses the risk of Low Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI).
Motul Asian Import’s standout feature is its high-temperature resistance and HTHS viscosity (2.7 mPa.s), which helps control oil consumption even under high-load conditions.
Other Compatibilities:
- Suitable for modern gasoline engines requiring a viscosity grade 20 and fuel economy standards.
- Compatible with catalytic converters.
Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 0W-20
Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 0W-20 Motor Oil
Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 0W-20 is a premium full synthetic motor oil and a high-performance aftermarket equivalent for fourth through sixth-generation Honda CR-Vs (2012–Present).
Formulated with high-quality base oils, it is designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern turbocharged and direct-injected engines. . If you are debating between top-tier brands, you can compare Valvoline vs Mobil 1 to see how their anti-wear packages differ.
Quick Specs:
- Type: Premium Full Synthetic
- Viscosity (100°C): 8.4 cSt
- Pour Point: -39°C or lower
- HTHS: 2.7 cP
- Certifications: API SP, ILSAC GF-6A, GM dexos1 Gen3
If you operate a newer CR-V in severe service conditions, such as extreme temperatures or heavy towing, this oil addresses the risk of deposit buildup and thermal breakdown. It specifically solves the problem of Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI) in Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines.
The standout feature is its innovative anti-wear additive package and high viscosity index (171), which ensures the oil film remains stable under load while flowing immediately during cold starts.
Other Compatibilities:
- Ford WSS-M2C962-A1
- Chrysler MS-6395
- API SN with SN Plus
Havoline Lifelong Full Synthetic 0W-20
Havoline Motor Oil 0w20 PRO-DS Lifelong Full Synthetic
Havoline Lifelong Full Synthetic 0W-20 is a suitable aftermarket equivalent for fourth through sixth-generation Honda CR-Vs (2012–Present).
This formula is engineered to provide the same protection as standard full synthetics but with added benefits specifically for high-mileage engines or vehicles of any age.
Quick Specs:
- Type: Full Synthetic
- Viscosity (100°C): 9.0 mm²/s
- Viscosity Index: 170
- Flash Point: 238°C
- Certifications: API SQ, ILSAC GF-7A, GM dexos1 Gen 3
Halvoline’s standout feature is its hybrid-ready formulation, which is designed to withstand higher levels of fuel and water contamination while providing 50% better wear protection for bearings and turbochargers than required by industry limits.
Other Compatibilities:
- Chrysler: MS-6395
- Ford: WSS-M2C962-A1 (Compatible with WSS-M2C947-A1/B1)
- Fiat: 9.55535-CR-1
- General Motors: GM 6094M
LIQUI MOLY Molygen New Generation 0W-20
Liqui Moly Molygen New Generation SAE 0W-20
LIQUI MOLY Molygen New Generation 0W-20 is a high-performance, low-friction full synthetic motor oil and a high-performance aftermarket equivalent for fourth through sixth-generation Honda CR-Vs (2012–Present).
Quick specs
- Type Full Synthetic (Molygen)
- Viscosity (100°C) 8.5 mm²/s
- Pour point −42 °C
- Flash point 220 °C
- HTHS (150°C) ≥ 2.6 mPa·s
- Certifications API SP, ILSAC GF-6A
If you operate a newer CR-V in stop-and-go traffic or extreme temperatures, this oil addresses the risk of deposit buildup and premature wear through its unique Molygen additive. It is a friction modifier that bonds to metal surfaces and maintains a protective film even under high thermal stress.
Liqui Moly formulated this motor oil for Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, and Toyota vehicles.
Other compatibilities
- Chrysler MS-6395
- Fiat 9.55535-CR1
- Ford WSS-M2C 947-A / 947-B1 / 962-A1
- GM 6094M
Related: Honda Civic Oil Capacity & Oil Type
Closing Notes
Most CR-V owners focus on getting the oil changed and moving on. But oil choice actually affects how the engine feels to drive. Honda designs the CR-V’s variable valve timing and turbo mapping around a specific viscosity.
Run the right oil and throttle response feels crisper, idle runs smoother, and the engine behaves the way Honda built it to behave.
Oil quality also compounds over time. One subpar oil change won’t destroy an engine, but a pattern of poor choices accelerates wear faster than most people expect. You should also learn to properly read your car’s oil dipstick to check levels between services
Share your experience of changing engine oil for your CR-V with us in the comment box!
Related Reads
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- Best Oil for Honda Odyssey Explore oil recommendations for the Honda Odyssey and see how they compare with what’s best for your Honda CRV – Read more.
- K&N Oil Filter or Mobil 1: Deciphering the Ultimate Pick Learn which oil filters are best suited for your Honda CRV, comparing popular options like K&N and Mobil 1 – Explore here.
- List of Motor Oils with Chrysler MS-6395 Certification See which oils meet the Chrysler MS-6395 certification and whether they are suitable for your Honda CRV – Discover now.
