2017 Honda Civic Fluid Specs

As a master technician, I know that using the correct fluids is the single most important thing you can do to ensure the longevity and reliability of your 2017 Honda Civic. Modern vehicles are built with incredibly tight tolerances, and factory-fill fluids are engineered with specific additives and properties to protect intricate components. Using a “universal” or “good enough” fluid can lead to premature wear, poor performance, and even catastrophic failure.

This guide covers every factory-spec fluid for your 2017 Honda Civic. Always double-check capacities in your owner's manual, as they can vary slightly based on trim level and equipment.

Quick Reference: 2017 Honda Civic Fluid Specs

Fluid	Type/Specification	Capacity (Approximate)
Engine Oil	SAE 0W-20 (API SN, ILSAC GF-5)	3.4–4.4 quarts (Varies by engine)
Engine Coolant	Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (Blue)	1.1–1.9 gallons
Automatic Transmission Fluid (CVT)	Honda HCF-2 Transmission Fluid	3.7–4.1 quarts (Drain and fill)
Manual Transmission Fluid	Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)	1.9–2.4 quarts
Brake Fluid	Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3	As needed
Power Steering Fluid	N/A (Electric Power Steering)	N/A
Windshield Washer Fluid	Good quality, solvent-based fluid	1.2 gallons

---

Engine Oil

Specification: SAE 0W-20, API Service SN, ILSAC GF-5

For all 2017 Honda Civic models, including the 1.5L Turbo and the 2.0L naturally-aspirated engines, the required engine oil is SAE 0W-20. This is a low-viscosity synthetic oil designed for fuel efficiency and excellent cold-start protection. It is critical to use an oil that meets or exceeds API Service SN and ILSAC GF-5 standards. These certifications ensure the oil has the proper detergent, anti-wear, and antioxidant additives to protect your engine.

Capacity:

• 1.5L Turbo (EX-T, EX-L, Touring): Approximately 3.7 quarts with filter change.
• 2.0L (LX, EX): Approximately 4.4 quarts with filter change.

Notes: Honda's Maintenance Minder system will tell you when it's time to change the oil, but a good rule of thumb is every 7,500 miles or 12 months. Always use a high-quality oil filter. Do not use any viscosity other than 0W-20 unless you are in an extreme climate and the owner's manual specifies an alternative.

Engine Coolant

Specification: Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2

This is a non-silicate, non-borate, ethylene-glycol based coolant, which is a type of Phosphate-enhanced Organic Acid Technology (P-OAT). It is pre-mixed 50/50 with deionized water and comes in a distinctive blue color.

Capacity: Approximately 1.1 to 1.9 gallons, depending on engine and transmission.

Notes: This is a long-life coolant, typically good for 10 years or 100,000 miles for the first service, and every 5 years or 50,000 miles thereafter. CRITICAL: Never mix Honda Type 2 blue coolant with other colors or types of coolant (e.g., green, orange, or yellow universal coolants). Mixing chemistries can cause the coolant to gel, leading to blockages, overheating, and expensive damage to the radiator and water pump. If you need to top off, only use Honda Type 2 or a compatible P-OAT blue coolant.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is not a one-size-fits-all product. The 2017 Civic was offered with two automatic (CVT) and two manual transmissions, each requiring a specific fluid.

Automatic (CVT) Transmission

Specification: Honda HCF-2 Transmission Fluid

All 2017 Civics equipped with an automatic transmission have a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). These transmissions are fundamentally different from traditional automatics and demand a very specific fluid. HCF-2 is engineered to provide the precise frictional properties required for the steel belt and pulley system to operate without slipping or shuddering.

Capacity: Approximately 3.7–4.1 quarts for a drain and fill.

Notes: DO NOT USE ANY OTHER TYPE OF ATF. Using standard ATF (like Dexron, Mercon, or even Honda's older Z-1/DW-1) will quickly destroy a CVT. Service intervals are typically around 30,000 miles. A "drain and fill" only replaces about 40% of the total fluid, so regular changes are key to longevity.

Manual Transmission

Specification: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)

For Civics with a 5-speed or 6-speed manual gearbox, you must use Honda's proprietary MTF. This fluid provides the perfect friction coefficient for smooth synchro engagement and protects the gears and bearings.

Capacity: 1.9–2.4 quarts.

Notes: While some forums may suggest using 10W-30 motor oil as an old-school substitute, this is not recommended for modern Honda transmissions. The additive packages are completely different. Stick with the genuine Honda MTF for best shift quality and long-term protection. Change intervals are typically 60,000–90,000 miles, or sooner if you experience notchy shifting.

Brake Fluid

Specification: Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3

Your Civic's braking system requires DOT 3 brake fluid. While DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 fluids have higher boiling points, it is safest to stick with the manufacturer's recommendation. Honda's fluid is high quality and readily available.

Notes: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture lowers the boiling point of the fluid, which can lead to a soft or spongy pedal and reduced braking performance in hard-stop situations. For this reason, Honda recommends replacing the brake fluid every 3 years, regardless of mileage. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) fluid, as it is incompatible with the seals in a DOT 3 system.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2017 Honda Civic is equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS) and does not have a hydraulic power steering system. Therefore, it does not require any power steering fluid.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Specification: Any good quality, solvent-based windshield washer fluid.

Capacity: Approximately 1.2 gallons (4.5 liters).

Notes: In winter climates, be sure to use a fluid with a low freezing point to prevent damage to the reservoir and pump. Avoid using simple water, as it lacks cleaning agents and can grow bacteria in the reservoir.

---

Adhering to these specifications is the best way to keep your 2017 Honda Civic running like new. When it's time for service, don't settle for "close enough."

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.