2020 Honda Pilot Oil Capacity & Filter

Quick Answer

The 2020 Honda Pilot takes 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) of 0W-20 engine oil.

• Oil Capacity: 5.7 US Quarts (5.4 Liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-20
• Oil Specification: API Premium Grade Destein, fully synthetic
• OEM Oil Filter Part Number: 15400-PLM-A02
• Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
  • Fram PH7317
  • Wix 51356
  • Mobil 1 M1-110

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2020 Honda Pilot comes with a single engine option for all trims:

Oil Change Interval

Honda's Maintenance Minder system often dictates the oil change interval based on driving conditions. However, general guidelines are:

• Normal Duty: Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. This applies to frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, heavy towing, or dusty conditions.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug for the 2020 Honda Pilot should be torqued to 29 lb-ft (39 Nm). 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 94109-14000.

How to Change the Oil

1. Gather your tools: new oil, oil filter, drain pan, 17mm wrench, torque wrench, oil filter wrench, funnel, and jack/jack stands (if needed).
2. Warm up the engine slightly to allow the oil to drain more easily.
3. Safely lift and support the front of the vehicle if necessary.
4. Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan, place the drain pan underneath, and remove the plug. Allow all the old oil to drain completely.
5. Replace the old crush washer with a new one on the drain plug and reinstall it, tightening to 29 lb-ft (39 Nm).
6. Locate the oil filter, position the drain pan to catch any drips, and remove the old filter.
7. Apply a thin film of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
8. Install the new oil filter, tightening it by hand until snug, then an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn. Consult the filter manufacturer's instructions for specific torque if provided.
9. Lower the vehicle and fill the engine with 5.7 quarts of new 0W-20 engine oil.
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 for the oil to settle, and check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
12. Reset the Maintenance Minder system.

Common Issues / Tips

• VCM (Variable Cylinder Management): Some 3.5L V6 Honda engines with VCM can be prone to increased oil consumption. Regularly monitoring your oil level between changes is recommended, especially if you notice increased consumption.
• Plastic Undershield: The 2020 Pilot has a plastic undershield that needs to be removed or partially lowered to access the oil filter and drain plug. This typically involves removing several clips and bolts.
• Maintenance Minder Accuracy: While the Maintenance Minder is generally reliable, if you primarily drive under severe conditions, consider erring on the side of caution with shorter oil change intervals.
• Genuine Honda Filters: While aftermarket filters are excellent, many Honda enthusiasts prefer genuine Honda oil filters (part number 15400-PLM-A02) for their consistent quality and proper bypass valve specifications.

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