Changing engine oil for a ACURA RDX car can be an overwhelming task for an unprepared person, and stretch out for a whole day. Although the work can be done in just 30 minutes. I’m here to share my experience and secrets with you! Let’s start with a few words about the car.
The Acura RDX is a compact luxury crossover SUV that’s been popular in the American market since its introduction in 2006. There are three generations of the RDX. The first generation, produced from 2007 to 2012, had a unique turbocharged four-cylinder engine. In the second generation, from 2013 to 2018, they switched to a more common V6 engine. The third generation, starting in 2019, saw a return to a turbocharged four-cylinder, this time with a ten-speed automatic transmission for smoother and more efficient driving.
Throughout its generations, the RDX has been known for its comfortable ride and reliability. Acura, as a brand, is Honda’s luxury vehicle division, so the RDX shares much of its underlying engineering with Honda models. The car is sold as the Honda RDX in Japan and China, while in the US, Canada, and other markets, it retains the Acura branding.
Contents
- 1 How to Change Engine Oil on ACURA in Theory
- 2 What You Need to Know Before Starting Work
- 3 Preparation for Work
- 4 Change oil on Acura — Step-by-step Instruction
- 5 Possible Questions After Self-service FAQ
How to Change Engine Oil on ACURA in Theory
Changing the oil is critical because it keeps the engine running smoothly. It removes dirt and debris that can damage the engine and helps improve fuel economy. Regular oil changes prolong the life of your engine, saving you money on repairs in the long run.
So, let’s define the basic steps for performing a car engine oil change.
Warm up the engine to operating temperature
Drain the used engine oil and remove the old oil filter
Install a new filter and fill with fresh oil
Check the oil level with a dipstick
By following these simple steps, you can service your car. Now let’s take a closer look at each of the steps, select the recommended oil and filter. At the end of this page I will answer possible questions.
What You Need to Know Before Starting Work
How often should you change your oil?
On most Acura vehicles, the manufacturer recommends changing the oil every 7,500 miles for normal driving conditions, or every 3,750 miles for severe conditions. However, always check your vehicle’s owner manual for the most accurate information. These days, most vehicles have an oil life monitor that will tell you when it’s time for an oil change based on your specific driving conditions.
How to Check the Level of Engine Oil
To check the oil level in your car, you’ll need to find the dipstick. On most Acuras, it’s on the right side of the engine bay, it’s usually a bright color, like yellow, to stand out. To check the oil, follow these steps:
- Turn off the engine and let it sit for a few minutes. This lets the oil settle back down into the oil pan for a correct reading.
- Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel.
- Re-insert the dipstick all the way in, then pull it out again.
- Look at the oil on the end of the dipstick. There should be two marks or holes – the oil should be between them. If it’s below the bottom mark, you need to add oil. If it’s above the top mark, there’s too much oil.
A study conducted by General Motors (GM) in 1974 showed that lengthening the engine oil-change interval could reduce the frequency of automotive maintenance, the amount of oil required to service the car population, and the potential pollution problem resulting from the disposal of used oil.
Visual Assessment of Engine Oil in a Car Engine
You can get a rough idea of your oil’s health by putting a drop of it on a piece of white paper. If the oil spreads out and is relatively clear or light brown, that’s a good sign. If the oil is very dark and dirty, or if it stays thick and doesn’t spread much, it’s probably time for an oil change. Remember, though, this is a very rough test. There’s no substitute for regular oil changes at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
What Can (Should) Be Changed at the Same Time with Engine Oil
- Oil Filter: Always replace the oil filter with every oil change.
- Drain Plug: Check the condition and replace if necessary.
- Drain Plug Washer: These are often overlooked, but they should be replaced at each oil change to prevent leaks.
- Air Filter: It doesn’t need to be replaced with every oil change, but it’s worth checking and cleaning or replacing if dirty.
- Check Brake Fluid: While not usually replaced with an oil change, it’s a good opportunity to check its level and condition.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Engine Oils
There are three main types of engine oils: conventional, synthetic blend, and full synthetic.
- Conventional oil is the least expensive and is suited for regular use in normal conditions. However, it offers less protection at high temperatures and may need to be changed more often.
- Synthetic blend oil is a mix of conventional and synthetic oils. It provides more protection than conventional oil, especially in severe driving conditions, but it’s also more expensive.
- Full synthetic oil offers the best protection against heat and wear, and usually lasts longer than conventional or synthetic blend oils. It’s the most expensive option, but it could save you money in the long term by extending the life of your engine.
For Acura vehicles, the manufacturer usually recommends using a synthetic oil because of the high performance and longevity it offers.
Preparation for Work
Acura RDX Engine Oil Selection
| Generation (Year) | Engine | Suitable Oil Viscosity | Popular American Brands | Required Amount of Oil |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Gen (2007-2012) | 2.3L Turbo I4 | 5W-30 | Castrol ($29/5 quarts) Valvoline ($29/5 quarts) Mobil 1 ($27/5 qarts) | 4.5 quarts |
| 2nd Gen (2013-2018) | 3.5L V6 | 5W-20 | Mobil 1 ($33/6 quart) Castrol ($28/5 quart) | 4.5 quarts |
| 3rd Gen (2019-2023) | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 0W-20 | Mobil 1 ($29/5 quart) Pennzoil ($24/5 quart) | 4.5 quarts |
Oil Filter Selection
| Generation (Year) | Engine | Suitable Oil Filter | Popular American Brands | Article Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Gen (2007-2012) | 2.3L Turbo I4 | Specific to vehicle | Fram ($9), Bosch, Purolator ($10) | XG7317, PL14610 |
| 2nd Gen (2013-2018) | 3.5L V6 | Specific to vehicle | Fram ($9), Bosch, WIX, Acura ($12) | XG7317, 15400-PLM-A02 |
| 3rd Gen (2019-2023) | 2.0L Turbo I4 | Specific to vehicle | Fram ($9), Bosch ($7), WIX | 3323 |
Necessary Tools and Conditions
To change the engine oil, you’ll need:
- The right amount of the correct type of engine oil.
- A new oil filter that fits your vehicle.
- An oil filter wrench for removing the old filter.
- A socket or wrench for the drain plug.
- A container for catching and storing the old oil.
- A funnel for pouring in the new oil.
- Jack stands or ramps to safely raise the vehicle.
- Protective gloves and eyewear for safety.
You’ll also need a safe and clean workspace, preferably on a level surface. If you’re working outside, try to avoid windy conditions that could blow dirt into your engine.
Change oil on Acura — Step-by-step Instruction
How to Warm Up the Engine Before Changing the Oil?
Before you change the oil, you should warm up the engine. This helps the oil flow out of the engine more easily when you’re draining it. To warm up your engine, just start your car and let it run for a few minutes. You don’t want the engine to be too hot though, because you could burn yourself when draining the oil.
Change Engine Oil with Our Own Hands
Here’s a basic step-by-step guide for changing your oil:
- Warm up your engine for a few minutes, then turn it off.
- Raise your car with jack stands or a ramp.
- Put on your gloves and safety glasses.
- Position your oil catch pan beneath the oil drain plug.
- Use your wrench to carefully remove the drain plug and let the oil drain out.
- Once the oil has drained, replace the drain plug and new washer.
- Remove the old oil filter with your oil filter wrench.
- Lubricate the rubber gasket on the top of your new oil filter with some new oil.
- Install the new oil filter.
- Lower your car from the jack stands or ramp.
- Use a funnel to pour in the new oil.
- Start your engine and let it run for a few minutes, then check for leaks.
This whole process should take about an hour, depending on your experience and the specific vehicle.
Possible Questions After Self-service FAQ
What Problems Can Arise After an Incorrect Self-Changing Engine Oil?
If you don’t change your oil correctly, you might end up with oil leaks, a clogged oil filter, or an engine that’s running with too much or too little oil. All of these can cause serious damage to your engine.
How Can I Check for Engine Oil Leaks After Changing It Myself?
After you change your oil and run your engine, check underneath the car for any signs of drips. If you see any, you might have a leak. Check the drain plug and oil filter to make sure they’re properly tightened.
How to Reset the Oil Change Counter?
To reset the oil change light or counter on your car, you’ll usually need to follow a specific procedure that can be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. It often involves turning the ignition to the “on” position (without starting the engine), pressing the gas pedal a few times, and then turning the ignition off.
What to Do with Old Oil After Replacement?
Don’t throw old oil in the trash or pour it down a drain. It’s bad for the environment and it’s usually illegal. Instead, put it back into the containers that the new oil came in and take it to a recycling center or auto parts store. Many of them offer free oil recycling.
