2017 Honda Odyssey Complete Fluid Specifications

As an ASE-certified master technician, I can tell you that modern Hondas are incredibly sensitive to the fluids you pour into them. The 2017 Honda Odyssey, equipped with the reliable 3.5L J35Z8 V6 engine, is a prime example. While it is a durable family hauler, using generic "fits all" fluids—especially in the transmission and power steering systems—can lead to premature wear and expensive repairs.

Below is your complete, factory-spec fluid guide for the 2017 Honda Odyssey, including exact OEM specifications and capacities.

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	0W-20 (API SP / ILSAC GF-6A)	4.5 quarts (with filter)
Engine Coolant	Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (Blue)	2.1 gallons (drain & refill)
Transmission Fluid	Honda Genuine ATF DW-1	3.3 quarts (drain & refill)
Brake Fluid	Honda Heavy Duty DOT 3	~1.0 quart (for full flush)
Power Steering	Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid	~1.0 quart (system flush)
Windshield Washer	Standard Washer Fluid	4.7 quarts

(Note: The 2017 Honda Odyssey is exclusively a front-wheel-drive gasoline vehicle. It does not have a transfer case, rear differential, or require Diesel Exhaust Fluid/DEF).

Engine Oil

Specification: 0W-20 API SP / ILSAC GF-6A (Replaces older SN/GF-5 specs) Capacity: 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change

For the 2017 Odyssey's 3.5L V6, Honda requires a full synthetic 0W-20 engine oil. Always look for the API certification "donut" on the bottle. The exact change interval is dictated by the Maintenance Minder system on your dash, which monitors engine operating conditions to calculate oil life. Typically, this falls between 5,000 and 7,500 miles.

Pitfall Warning: Do not use heavier weight oils like 5W-30 or 10W-30. The Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) and i-VTEC systems rely on precise oil pressures provided by the low-viscosity 0W-20. Thicker oil can trigger check engine lights and cause VCM engagement issues.

Engine Coolant

Specification: Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (Blue) Capacity: Approx. 2.1 gallons (drain and refill, including reserve tank)

Honda Type 2 coolant is a pre-mixed 50/50 Phosphated Non-Amine (P-OAT) antifreeze. It is silicate-free and borate-free, specifically formulated to protect the water pump seals and aluminum components in Honda engines. The factory fill is rated for 10 years or 100,000 miles, with subsequent changes every 5 years or 50,000 miles.

Pitfall Warning: Never mix Honda Type 2 (Blue) with older conventional green coolants or universal "all-makes" coolants. Doing so can cause silicates to drop out of suspension, accelerating water pump seal failure and clogging the heater core. Always use the factory blue fluid.

Transmission Fluid

Specification: Honda Genuine ATF DW-1 Capacity: 3.3 quarts (drain and refill)

The 2017 Odyssey features a 6-speed automatic transmission. Honda specifies ATF DW-1, which replaced the older Z-1 fluid. DW-1 has a lower viscosity for better fuel economy and vastly improved low-temperature performance to eliminate harsh shifting when cold. The Maintenance Minder (Code 3) will alert you when it's time to change the fluid, usually around the 30,000-mile mark depending on driving conditions.

Pitfall Warning: Never use universal or multi-vehicle ATF, Dexron VI, or Mercon LV in this transmission. Honda automatics use a unique clutch design rather than traditional planetary gearsets, requiring the specific friction modifiers found only in DW-1. Using generic fluid is a guaranteed recipe for torque converter shudder and transmission failure. Furthermore, never perform a pressurized "machine flush" on this transmission; always stick to the traditional gravity drain and refill method.

Brake Fluid

Specification: Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 Capacity: ~1.0 quart for a complete system flush

Honda specifies DOT 3 brake fluid. While DOT 4 can technically be used in a pinch as it has a higher boiling point and is mixable, Honda explicitly recommends sticking with their proprietary DOT 3 formula to prevent long-term master cylinder seal degradation. Brake fluid is hygroscopic (it absorbs moisture from the air), so Honda recommends replacing the brake fluid every 3 years regardless of mileage.

Power Steering Fluid

Specification: Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid Capacity: ~1.0 quart for a complete flush

While many newer cars have moved to electric power steering, the 2017 Odyssey still utilizes a traditional hydraulic power steering pump.

Pitfall Warning: This is arguably the most critical fluid specification on the vehicle. Never use generic power steering fluid or ATF in a Honda power steering system. Honda's power steering fluid has a completely different viscosity and additive package than generic fluids. Using an off-the-shelf fluid will cause the pump to whine loudly, blow out the rack seals, and necessitate a complete steering system replacement. If the bottle doesn't say "For Honda/Acura vehicles," do not pour it in.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Specification: Standard washer fluid (freeze-protected for your climate) Capacity: 4.7 quarts

Because the Odyssey features a large windshield and rear glass to keep clean, the reservoir holds over a gallon of fluid. Any quality washer fluid is perfectly fine, though you should ensure you are using a winter blend (rated for -20°F or lower) if you live in a cold climate to prevent the reservoir and lines from cracking during a hard freeze.

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Maintaining your 2017 Honda Odyssey is incredibly straightforward as long as you stick to the OEM specifications. Skimping on proprietary fluids like ATF DW-1 and Honda Power Steering Fluid will always cost you more in the long run. If you need a professional to perform these services using the correct fluids, don't leave it to chance. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.