2019 Honda CR-V Fluid Type Specs

As an ASE-certified master technician, I've prepared this comprehensive fluid specification guide for your 2019 Honda CR-V. Using the correct fluids is paramount for the longevity and performance of your vehicle. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as specifications can sometimes vary by region or specific vehicle configurations.

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine oil	0W-20, API SP/SN PLUS, or Honda HFS-4	4.6 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter
Engine coolant	Honda Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (OAT, Blue)	Approximately 1.39 US gallons (5.25 liters)
Transmission fluid	Honda HCF-2 Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid	Varies, approximately 3.8 US quarts (3.6 liters) for drain and refill
Transfer case (AWD)	Honda DPSF-II Differential Fluid	Approximately 0.48 US quarts (0.45 liters)
Rear Differential	Honda DPSF-II Differential Fluid	Approximately 0.48 US quarts (0.45 liters)
Brake fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4	Varies
Power steering fluid	Electric Power Steering (EPS) - No serviceable fluid	N/A
Washer fluid	Commercial washer fluid	Varies

Engine Oil

Type/Spec: The 2019 Honda CR-V requires 0W-20 full synthetic engine oil. It is critical to use oil that meets or exceeds the American Petroleum Institute (API) SP or SN PLUS specifications. Honda often recommends its own Honda HFS-4 oil, but any oil meeting the specified API standard and viscosity will be acceptable. Always look for the API "starburst" certification mark on the oil container.

Capacity: The engine oil capacity is approximately 4.6 US quarts (4.4 liters) when replacing the filter. It's always a good practice to add slightly less than the full capacity, then check the dipstick and top off as needed, running the engine briefly to circulate the oil before the final check.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Honda typically recommends an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. However, your vehicle's Maintenance Minder system will provide the most accurate oil change alerts based on your driving habits. Using conventional oil or an incorrect viscosity can lead to increased engine wear and reduced fuel economy. Never exceed the recommended oil change intervals.

Engine Coolant

Type/Spec: Your 2019 Honda CR-V uses Honda Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This is a blue, silicate-free, phosphate-free, and borate-free Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant. It comes pre-mixed and should not be diluted with water. Absolutely do not mix this with other types of coolant, especially traditional Green (IGC) or Hybrid OAT (HOAT) coolants, as this can lead to corrosion, gel formation, and severe damage to your cooling system components.

Capacity: The total cooling system capacity is approximately 1.39 US gallons (5.25 liters).

Intervals and Pitfalls: Honda's Type 2 coolant is designed for extended service intervals, typically lasting up to 120,000 miles or 10 years for the first replacement, and then every 60,000 miles or 5 years thereafter. Regular inspection of coolant levels and condition is recommended. Ensure the system is properly bled after any coolant service to avoid air pockets.

Transmission Fluid

Type/Spec: The 2019 Honda CR-V, equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), requires Honda HCF-2 Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid. This fluid is specifically engineered for Honda CVTs and has unique friction modifiers. Using any other type of transmission fluid, including "universal" CVTF products or standard automatic transmission fluids, can cause serious damage to the CVT and void your warranty.

Capacity: A drain and refill typically requires approximately 3.8 US quarts (3.6 liters). A full flush capacity for a complete replacement will be higher; verify in your owner's manual / OEM service information.

Intervals and Pitfalls: The Maintenance Minder system will indicate when the transmission fluid needs to be changed, typically around 60,000 to 90,000 miles under normal conditions. Heavier use, such as frequent towing or driving in mountainous terrain, may necessitate more frequent changes. Never overfill or underfill the transmission fluid. Always check the fluid level with the engine at operating temperature, ensuring the vehicle is on a level surface.

Transfer Case (AWD models only)

Type/Spec: For AWD models, the transfer case (also sometimes referred to as the front differential, as it's integrated into the transmission housing) uses Honda DPSF-II Differential Fluid. This specialized fluid is crucial for the proper operation and longevity of Honda's Real Time AWD system. Do not substitute with standard gear oils.

Capacity: Approximately 0.48 US quarts (0.45 liters).

Intervals and Pitfalls: The Maintenance Minder system will typically recommend a transfer case fluid change around 30,000 miles, especially if you engage in frequent AWD operation, towing, or drive in harsh conditions. Failure to change this fluid can lead to premature wear and noise from the transfer case.

Rear Differential (AWD models only)

Type/Spec: Similar to the transfer case, the rear differential in AWD models requires Honda DPSF-II Differential Fluid. This fluid is formulated to work with the multi-plate clutch system in the rear differential that engages the rear wheels.

Capacity: Approximately 0.48 US quarts (0.45 liters).

Intervals and Pitfalls: Maintenance Minder will typically call for a rear differential fluid change at similar intervals to the transfer case, often around 30,000 miles for the first service and then periodically thereafter based on usage. Using incorrect fluid can lead to shuddering, noise, and damage to the rear differential clutches and gears.

Brake Fluid

Type/Spec: Your 2019 Honda CR-V uses either DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Both are glycol-ether based fluids. DOT 4 has a higher wet and dry boiling point than DOT 3, offering a slight performance advantage, especially under heavy braking or in high-humidity environments. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) brake fluid, as it is incompatible with your vehicle's ABS system and seals. Do not mix DOT 3 or DOT 4 with DOT 5 or DOT 5.1. While DOT 5.1 is also glycol-ether based and generally compatible, Honda specifically recommends DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Capacity: Varies depending on whether you are simply topping off or performing a full system flush. Keep the reservoir between the MIN and MAX lines.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to internal corrosion of brake components. Honda generally recommends replacing brake fluid every 3 years, regardless of mileage. Regularly check the fluid level and color. Dark or cloudy fluid indicates contamination and a need for replacement. Always bleed the brake system properly to remove all air after service.

Power Steering Fluid

Type/Spec: The 2019 Honda CR-V utilizes an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. This system does not use hydraulic fluid, so there is no serviceable power steering fluid to check or replace.

Capacity: N/A

Intervals and Pitfalls: N/A

Washer Fluid

Type/Spec: Any commercially available windshield washer fluid is suitable for your 2019 Honda CR-V. For best performance, especially in colder climates, choose a fluid with antifreeze properties to prevent freezing.

Capacity: Varies by reservoir size. Simply top off as needed.

Intervals and Pitfalls: Top off as needed. Avoid using plain water, as it can freeze in cold weather and does not clean as effectively.

DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)

Type/Spec: The 2019 Honda CR-V is a gasoline-powered vehicle and does not use Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).

Capacity: N/A

Intervals and Pitfalls: N/A

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