What Type of Engine Oil Should Be Used for the 10th Generation Civic?
2 Answers
The manufacturer of the 10th generation Civic provides three types of original engine oil for consumers to choose from: 5W-30 semi-synthetic oil, 0W-20 original semi-synthetic oil, and 5W-40 original fully synthetic oil. Any oil model that meets these three specification parameters can be used. The 10th generation Civic uses original brand engine oil. If you want to change the oil during later maintenance, you can choose oil brands such as Shell, Mobil, Castrol, or Total. The viscosity of engine oil changes with temperature, so special attention should be paid to its performance under low and high temperatures. For example, in 5W-30, the first number indicates low-temperature fluidity. 5W means it can withstand low temperatures of -30°C. The smaller this number, the better the low-temperature fluidity, making cold starts smoother. The latter number represents the kinematic viscosity of the oil at 100°C. The higher the value, the better it can maintain viscosity under high temperatures, which can also be understood as better lubrication performance under high temperatures. The method for changing the engine oil of the 10th generation Civic is as follows: Wait for the engine temperature to drop, allowing the oil to flow back into the oil pan; Use a wrench to loosen the oil drain plug and place an oil pan to catch the old oil until no more oil flows out. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds to allow the oil in the main oil passage to drain; Use a special wrench to remove the oil filter; apply oil to the seal of the new oil filter and tighten it clockwise by hand; Add new oil through the oil filler cap on the engine valve cover. Generally, fill up to three-quarters of a bottle; Start the engine and let it run for 5 minutes, then check for oil leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter. If there are any leaks, perform necessary repairs; After stopping the engine, pull out the oil dipstick and check that the engine oil level is within the standard range.
I've been driving my 10th-gen Civic for several years and always recommend using 0W-20 full synthetic oil, as it suits the 1.5T engine design of the Civic, ensuring smooth cold starts and fuel efficiency. I found this specification in the manual myself and stick to changing the oil every 8,000 km or 6 months to prevent premature engine wear. Using off-brand oils may lead to sediment buildup or power loss. I often choose Honda Genuine or Mobil 1, brands with API certification, for peace of mind. Don't neglect checking the oil level—if it's low or discolored, change it early. On long drives, good oil keeps the engine quieter and more fuel-efficient, extending the car's lifespan. In short, sticking to this specification with regular maintenance keeps the car performing like new.
