
Honda Civic can use 0W20 engine oil, which is designed to improve fuel economy. The number 0 represents the viscosity of the oil, with 0 being the smallest, indicating lower viscosity at low temperatures and better fluidity in cold conditions; W stands for winter-grade oil; 20 is the oil viscosity, where a smaller number like 20 is suitable for low-temperature use. The higher the number, the higher the temperature range the oil is designed for. Choosing the right oil depends on the operating temperature of the vehicle. Engine oils are classified as follows: High-temperature type (e.g., SAE20-SAE50): The number indicates the viscosity at 100 degrees, with higher numbers representing higher viscosity. Low-temperature type (e.g., SAE0W-SAE25W): W indicates winter use only, and the smaller the number, the lower the viscosity and the better the low-temperature fluidity. All-season type (e.g., SAE15W/40, 10W/40, 5W/50): Indicates that the viscosity grade at low temperatures meets the requirements of SAE15W, 10W, and 5W, respectively, while the high-temperature viscosity grade meets the requirements of SAE40 and 50, making it suitable for both winter and summer use.

My Civic driving experience tells me that choosing engine oil is not something to be taken lightly. For newer Civics, it's recommended to use 0W-20 full synthetic oil. This oil has good fluidity, saves fuel, and protects the engine. Checking the manual generally recommends this viscosity. Specific brands like Mobil and Castrol are good choices—don't skimp and buy counterfeit products to avoid damaging the engine. During maintenance, change the oil regularly, every 5,000 kilometers or every six months, especially in colder climates where 0W oil makes winter starts easier. Additionally, if the car has significant wear over time, you can try high-mileage-specific oil with protective additives, but this depends on the specific condition of the car. In short, choosing the wrong oil can lead to increased engine fuel consumption, overheating, and even affect driving safety.

I enjoy doing maintenance myself, and I change the oil for my Civic on my own. I recommend using 5W-20 synthetic oil—it has moderate viscosity and is worry-free. When buying oil, check for certification labels; API SP grade is the most reliable to avoid contaminating the engine with low-quality oil. The oil change process is simple: first, warm up the car and park it, locate the oil pan drain bolt, use a wrench to loosen it and drain the oil. Once it’s fully drained, install a new filter and pour in fresh oil—about 4 liters, but don’t overfill. After the change, start the engine for a few minutes to check for leaks. This DIY approach saves money and teaches skills, but be sure to keep tools clean to prevent dust from entering the engine. Also, maintain maintenance records to track oil life.

For experienced drivers, choosing 0W-20 full synthetic oil for the Civic is the most practical option, as lower viscosity oil provides better lubrication for new engines. Driving conditions affect the choice—in high-temperature areas, a slightly thicker 5W-30 may be suitable, but it must meet the manufacturer's standards. Trust reputable brands like Shell; though slightly more expensive, they ensure quality. Maintain an oil change interval of 5,000 km and regularly check the dipstick—top up immediately if levels are low. For older cars with over 100,000 km, adding an anti-wear additive to the oil can reduce the risk of leaks and enhance engine durability.


