What type of engine oil is suitable for the 8th generation Accord?
2 Answers
The 8th generation Accord is suitable for Mobil 1 SM 0W/40 synthetic engine oil. Below are the relevant details: 1. The meaning of "0W" The "0W" at the front indicates that the lower the number, the better the low-temperature fluidity of the engine oil, representing a lower usable environmental temperature and better engine protection during cold starts. For example, 5W corresponds to a minimum temperature of -30°C, 0W is -35°C, and 10W is -25°C. 2. The meaning of the numbers The number at the back represents the viscosity index of the engine oil at high temperatures. The higher the number, the higher the viscosity. Higher viscosity provides better engine protection but results in higher fuel consumption, and vice versa. Each vehicle has different viscosity requirements. For instance, Japanese cars typically use 30, while German cars mostly use 40, as it meets Volkswagen's certification standards.
My eighth-gen Accord has done 120,000 km and always used 5W-30 full synthetic oil. The manual strongly recommends this viscosity - never randomly change it. Last time I tried 0W-40 and it actually increased oil consumption. For the 2.4L engine, basic versions from major brands like Shell Helix or Mobil are perfectly adequate, with 8,000 km change intervals being ideal. Always check fluid levels before summer road trips - older Hondas are prone to oil seepage. Repair shops always push premium oils, but regular changes matter far more than brand selection. During oil changes, have them inspect the valve cover gasket as this generation's rubber deteriorates quickly. Cabin air filters should be replaced twice annually, especially in humid southern regions where dust accumulation is severe.
