2021 Honda CR-V Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2021 Honda CR-V takes 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) of 0W-20 engine oil if equipped with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity: 4.2 quarts (4.0 Liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-20
• Oil Type Specification: API SP or a Honda HTO-06 approved oil (for 1.5T engine)
• **Oil Filter (1.5L Turbocharged Engine):
  • OEM: Honda PN 15400-PLM-A02 or 15400-RTA-003
  • Fram: PH7317
  • Mobil 1: M1-110
  • Wix: 51334

Capacity by Engine Option

For the 2021 model year, the Honda CR-V was primarily offered with one gasoline engine option in most markets:

Note: Hybrid models have different specifications; this guide focuses on the gasoline-only 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Oil Change Interval

Honda recommends following the Maintenance Minder System, which dynamically calculates oil life based on driving conditions. However, general guidelines are:

• Normal Duty: Typically every 7,500 – 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently drive in extreme temperatures, tow, drive in dusty conditions, or make frequent short trips, an interval of 3,000 – 5,000 miles or 6 months is often recommended.

Always check your vehicle's Maintenance Minder system for the most accurate timing.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug for the 2021 Honda CR-V (1.5L turbocharged engine) should be torqued to 29 lb-ft (39 N·m). Always use a new crush washer with each 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 2021 Honda CR-V is a straightforward process:

1. Gather your materials: fresh oil, new oil filter, drain pan, wrench for the drain plug, oil filter wrench, and a new crush washer.
2. Warm up the engine slightly, then park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan, place the drain pan underneath, and carefully remove the plug. Allow all the old oil to drain out.
4. Once drained, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer. Reinstall the drain plug and torque it to 29 lb-ft.
5. Locate the oil filter, place the drain pan underneath, and carefully remove it. Be prepared for some residual oil to spill.
6. Apply a thin film of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter. Install the new filter and tighten it by hand until snug, then an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn (or follow filter manufacturer instructions for torque).
7. Remove the oil fill cap on top of the engine and add 4.2 quarts of the recommended 0W-20 oil.
8. Replace the oil fill cap, start the engine, and let it run for a minute to allow oil pressure to build. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
9. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary to reach the "full" mark.
10. Reset your Maintenance Minder system to reflect the oil change.

Common Issues / Tips

• Oil Dilution (1.5L Turbocharged Engine): Some 1.5L turbocharged Honda engines, including those in the CR-V, have experienced issues with fuel-in-oil dilution, particularly in colder climates or with frequent short trips. This can increase oil levels on the dipstick and reduce oil life. While Honda has issued software updates to address this, it's wise to monitor your oil level and quality regularly.
• Use the Right Oil: Adhering to the 0W-20 viscosity and API SP/Honda HTO-06 specification is crucial for the longevity and performance of the 1.5L turbocharged engine, especially given its direct injection and turbocharging.
• Maintenance Minder: Don't ignore your Maintenance Minder system. It's designed to optimize service intervals for your specific driving habits.
• Oil Filter Importance: A quality oil filter is paramount. Cheaper filters may not provide adequate filtration or may break down prematurely, potentially leading to engine damage.

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