2018 Honda Civic Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2018 Honda Civic typically takes between 3.7 and 4.5 quarts of 0W-20 engine oil, depending on the specific engine. Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate information.

Quick Answer

• Total Capacity:
  • 1.5L Turbo (FC4/FC3): 3.7 US Quarts (3.5 Liters) with filter
  • 2.0L Naturally Aspirated (FC2/FC5): 4.4 US Quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter
• Oil Grade: 0W-20 Full Synthetic
• Oil Specification: API SP / ILSAC GF-6 (or API SN / ILSAC GF-5 for older recommendations)
• Oil Filter Part Numbers:
  • OEM Honda: 15400-PLM-A02 or 15400-RTA-003 (Please verify with your dealer based on VIN)
  • Fram Cross-Reference: PH7317
  • Wix Cross-Reference: 51356
  • Mobil 1 Cross-Reference: M1-110

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2018 Honda Civic was available with different engine options, each with a slightly different oil capacity:

Oil Change Interval

Honda recommends using the Maintenance Minder system in your vehicle for optimal oil change intervals. This system calculates the oil's remaining life based on driving conditions and engine operation.

• Normal Duty: Typically, the Maintenance Minder will recommend an oil change between 7,500 and 10,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently drive in severe conditions (e.g., extreme temperatures, heavy city traffic, short trips, towing, mountainous terrain), the Maintenance Minder will likely recommend more frequent oil changes, potentially around 5,000 miles or every 6 months.

Always follow the Maintenance Minder prompts on your dashboard for the most accurate service schedule.

Drain Plug Torque

The drain plug on your 2018 Honda Civic should be tightened to 29 lb-ft (39 Nm). It is highly recommended to replace the crush washer with a new one every time you perform an oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The OEM crush washer part number is typically 94109-14000.

How to Change the Oil

Changing the oil on your 2018 Honda Civic is a straightforward process:

1. Warm the engine slightly, then safely lift and secure the front of the vehicle.
2. Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan and place a drain pan underneath.
3. Remove the drain plug and allow the old oil to drain completely.
4. Replace the crush washer on the drain plug and reinsert, tightening to 29 lb-ft.
5. Locate the oil filter, usually on the front or side of the engine block. Place a small catch pan beneath it.
6. Unscrew the old oil filter. Be prepared for a small amount of oil to spill.
7. Apply a thin coat of new engine oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
8. Screw on the new oil filter hand-tight, then turn an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn (or follow filter manufacturer's instructions).
9. Lower the vehicle and add the appropriate amount of new 0W-20 engine oil through the oil fill cap.
10. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
11. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and check the oil level on the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
12. Reset the Maintenance Minder system.

Common Issues / Tips

• Direct Injection Carbon Buildup (1.5L Turbo): While oil changes don't directly prevent carbon buildup on intake valves, using high-quality detergents in API SP/ILSAC GF-6 oils can help keep the engine cleaner. Regular oil changes are crucial for the longevity of these turbo engines.
• Oil Dilution (1.5L Turbo): Some 1.5L turbo engines experienced issues with fuel diluting the engine oil, especially in colder climates. Ensure you are using the correct 0W-20 oil and follow the Maintenance Minder. If you notice a rising oil level on the dipstick combined with a fuel smell, have your vehicle inspected by a Honda dealership.
• Maintenance Minder Accuracy: Trust the Maintenance Minder. It's designed to optimize service intervals for your specific driving habits and engine condition. Don't automatically adhere to arbitrary mileage intervals if the Minder suggests otherwise.
• Genuine Honda Filters: While aftermarket filters are good, many enthusiasts and technicians prefer genuine Honda oil filters (15400-PLM-A02 or 15400-RTA-003) for their proven quality and design. Consult your dealer with your VIN for the exact part number.

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