2016 Honda CR-V Oil Capacity & Filter Specs

The 2016 Honda CR-V equipped with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine takes 4.6 quarts (4.4 liters) of 0W-20 oil when performing an oil and filter change. As an ASE-certified master technician, I always recommend sticking to Honda's factory specifications to keep your EarthDreams engine running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

Below is your comprehensive reference guide for changing the oil in your 2016 Honda CR-V.

Quick Answer

Here are the essential specifications you need before heading to the auto parts store:

• Oil Capacity: 4.6 quarts (4.4 liters) with a filter change. (4.4 quarts / 4.2 liters without filter).
• Recommended Weight/Viscosity: 0W-20.
• Oil Specification: API Premium-grade 0W-20 detergent oil bearing the API Certification Seal (ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6). Synthetic oil is highly recommended.
• OEM Oil Filter: Honda Part # 15400-PLM-A02 (or 15400-PLM-A01).
• Aftermarket Filters: Fram XG7317 (Ultra Synthetic), Mobil 1 M1-110A, WIX 51356.

Capacity by Engine Option

For the 2016 model year in North America, Honda offered the CR-V with only one engine option.

Oil Change Interval

The 2016 Honda CR-V uses the Honda Maintenance Minder system, which calculates the remaining oil life based on your driving habits, temperature, and engine operating conditions.

• Normal Duty: The Maintenance Minder will usually illuminate the wrench icon between 7,500 and 10,000 miles (or 12 months).
• Severe Duty: If you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, idle extensively, drive in mountainous terrain, or make mostly trips under 5 miles in freezing temperatures, the system may recommend a change closer to 5,000 miles (or 6 months).

Mechanic's Tip: Even if the Maintenance Minder has not reached 15%, you must change the engine oil at least once a year.

Drain Plug Torque

• Torque Spec: 29 lb-ft (39 Nm).
• Crush Washer: You must replace the 14mm aluminum crush washer (Honda Part # 94109-14000) at every oil change to prevent leaks.

How to Change the Oil

Changing the oil on a 2016 CR-V is straightforward and great for DIY mechanics.

1. Warm up the engine: Run the car for a few minutes so the oil is warm (but not scalding hot) to help it drain faster.
2. Access the undercarriage: Safely raise and support the front of the vehicle using jack stands or ramps.
3. Remove the access panel: The 2016 CR-V has an aluminum splash shield. You will need a flathead screwdriver or a Phillips/10mm socket to remove the fasteners covering the oil pan and filter.
4. Drain the oil: Place your catch pan under the oil pan. Use a 17mm wrench or socket to remove the drain plug. Let the oil drain completely.
5. Replace the filter: Move your catch pan under the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter. Wipe the engine mounting base clean, apply a thin coat of fresh oil to the new filter's rubber gasket, and install the new filter hand-tight (about 3/4 to 1 full turn after gasket contact).
6. Reinstall the drain plug: Install a fresh 14mm aluminum crush washer on the drain plug and torque it to 29 lb-ft.
7. Fill and check: Lower the vehicle, add 4.6 quarts of 0W-20 oil through the filler cap on top of the engine. Start the engine, run it for a minute to build oil pressure, turn it off, wait 3 minutes, and check the dipstick to ensure the level is at the upper mark. Check underneath for leaks.
8. Reset the Maintenance Minder: Turn the ignition to ON, press the select/reset knob until engine oil life is displayed. Press and hold the knob for 10 seconds until it blinks. Turn the knob to select the reset option, then press it again to confirm.

Common Issues / Tips for this Generation

• Direct Injection & Oil Dilution: The 2016 CR-V utilizes Honda's EarthDreams direct injection system. While fuel dilution in the oil is much less common in this naturally aspirated 2.4L engine compared to the later 1.5L Turbo, it's still a good idea to check your oil level regularly. If the oil smells heavily of raw fuel or the level is inexplicably high on the dipstick, shorten your oil change intervals.
• VTC Actuator Rattle: A very brief (1-2 second) rattle noise upon cold start is a known characteristic of the VTC (Variable Timing Control) actuator in this engine family. Keeping your oil topped off and clean is the best way to minimize wear on the timing components.
• Undertray Fasteners: The quarter-turn Dzus-style fasteners that hold the aluminum splash shield can rust or get jammed. Apply a tiny amount of anti-seize to them when reinstalling to save yourself a headache on your next oil change.

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