Honda Civic, a compact car manufactured by Honda, has been one of the most popular cars in the market for over 40 years. The first Civic was introduced in 1972, and since then, the model has undergone several redesigns and upgrades to become one of the most reliable and efficient cars in the market.
The first-generation Honda Civic was a subcompact car that came with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. It was available in two-door coupe, three-door hatchback, and four-door sedan models. The second-generation Civic was introduced in 1980, with more significant changes in design and features. It featured a more aerodynamic body, improved suspension, and fuel efficiency.
Over the years, Honda has continued to release new generations of the Civic, each with new features and improvements. The ninth generation of the Honda Civic, introduced in 2012, had significant improvements in fuel efficiency, ride comfort, and handling. The current generation, the eleventh, was introduced in 2021, with a more modern design, improved technology, and advanced safety features.
The Honda Civic model has several advantages that make it stand out in the market. One of the most significant advantages is its fuel efficiency. The car’s small size and lightweight construction, combined with efficient engines, make it one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the road.
The Honda Civic also has a reputation for reliability and longevity. It is built with high-quality materials and has a long-lasting engine and transmission, making it a durable car that can last for many years.
Other notable features of the Honda Civic include its spacious and comfortable cabin, user-friendly infotainment system, advanced safety features, and impressive driving dynamics.
Contents
- 1 Do I Need to Urgently Change the Oil Right Now?
- 2 Preparing to Change Engine Oil
- 2.1 What Type of Oil Should Be Used for a Car?
- 2.2 How to Choose Oil Depending on the Season and Operating Conditions?
- 2.3 What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Oils for Honda Civic?
- 2.4 Engine oil selection
- 2.5 Which oil filter is right for you?
- 2.6 Necessary tools and conditions
- 2.7 How to warm up the engine before changing the oil?
- 3 Step-by-step instruction
- 4 Replacing transmission fluid in automatic transmission
- 5 Possible questions after self-service
Do I Need to Urgently Change the Oil Right Now?
Oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine, and neglecting to change it regularly can lead to severe engine damage. So, if you are wondering whether you need to change the oil urgently, the answer is yes, if any of the following conditions apply:
- The oil is dark and dirty.
- The engine oil warning light is on.
- The engine is making unusual noises.
- The engine is running hot.
If you notice any of these signs, you should immediately take your car to a mechanic and have the oil changed.
What is the Frequency (Interval) for Changing Engine Oil?
The frequency for changing engine oil depends on several factors, including the type of car, driving conditions, and the type of oil used. For the Honda Civic, the recommended interval for changing engine oil is every 7,500 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first.
However, the frequency can change depending on your driving habits and conditions. For example, if you frequently drive in dusty or extreme temperatures, you may need to change the oil more frequently.
How to Check the Engine Oil Level?
Checking the engine oil level is an essential maintenance task that should be done regularly. Here are the steps to check the engine oil level in a Honda Civic:
- Park the car on level ground and turn off the engine.
- Open the hood and locate the oil dipstick.
- Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a cloth.
- Reinsert the dipstick all the way in and then pull it out again.
- Check the oil level on the dipstick. It should be between the two marks on the dipstick.
If the oil level is low, you should add more oil to the engine. It is essential to use the recommended type and grade of oil specified in the owner’s manual.
Visual (Express) Assessment of the Condition of Engine Oil
Visual inspection of engine oil is a quick and easy way to assess the condition of the oil. The color and consistency of the oil can indicate whether it needs to be changed or not.
To visually inspect the engine oil, you should:
- Park the car on level ground and turn off the engine.
- Wait for a few minutes to let the oil settle in the oil pan.
- Open the hood and locate the engine oil dipstick.
- Pull the dipstick out and observe the color and consistency of the oil.
If the oil is clean and transparent, it is still in good condition, and you may not need to change it yet. However, if the oil is dark and dirty, it is an indication that it is time to change the oil.
One quick way to test the oil’s condition is to use a piece of paper. Take a piece of white paper and place a drop of oil on it. If the oil leaves a dark and greasy stain, it means that it is time to change the oil.
Preparing to Change Engine Oil
Before changing the engine oil, you need to prepare your car and gather the necessary tools and supplies. Here are the steps to follow:
- Park the car on level ground and turn off the engine.
- Gather the necessary tools and supplies, including a wrench, oil filter wrench, drain pan, and new oil and filter.
- Open the hood and locate the engine oil cap and the oil filter.
- Remove the oil cap and unscrew the oil filter.
- Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug and remove the plug to drain the old oil.
- Once the old oil has drained, replace the drain plug and install a new oil filter.
- Add the new oil to the engine through the oil cap.
- Start the engine and check for any leaks.
What Type of Oil Should Be Used for a Car?
Choosing the right type of oil for your car is essential to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. The type of oil recommended for your car depends on several factors, including the car’s make and model, the age of the car, and the type of driving you do.
Most cars use either conventional or synthetic oil. Conventional oil is derived from crude oil and is less expensive than synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is manufactured from chemicals and is more expensive but provides better performance and protection.
To choose the right type of oil, you should consult your car’s owner’s manual or check with a mechanic. The manual will provide information on the recommended viscosity and type of oil for your car.
How to Choose Oil Depending on the Season and Operating Conditions?
The type of oil you use should also vary depending on the season and operating conditions. For example, in cold weather, you should use a thinner oil that can flow more easily through the engine. In hot weather, you should use a thicker oil to protect the engine from overheating.
If you frequently drive in dusty or extreme conditions, you may need to use a high-performance oil that provides better protection and reduces wear and tear on the engine.
Consult your car’s owner’s manual or a mechanic to determine the best type of oil for your car based on the season and operating conditions.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Oils for Honda Civic?
Choosing the right type of oil for your Honda Civic is crucial to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. There are several types of oils available in the market, including conventional, synthetic, and high-mileage oils, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Conventional oils are derived from crude oil and are less expensive than synthetic oils. They provide adequate protection for most Honda Civic engines and are suitable for regular driving conditions. However, they may not provide optimal performance in extreme temperatures or under heavy loads.
Synthetic oils, on the other hand, are manufactured from chemicals and provide better performance and protection than conventional oils. They can handle extreme temperatures and heavy loads and can extend the life of your engine. However, synthetic oils are more expensive than conventional oils.
High-mileage oils are specially designed for older Honda Civic models with more than 75,000 miles. They contain additives that can help reduce oil consumption, prevent leaks, and extend the life of the engine. However, they may not be suitable for newer Honda Civic models.
Engine oil selection
| Generation (Year) | Engine | Suitable Oil Viscosity | Popular American Brands | Required Amount of Oil | Article Number | Approximate Cost (USA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (1972-1979) | CVCC | 10W-40 | Mobil 1, Valvoline, Pennzoil | 3.4 quarts | 112786 | $24 |
| 2nd (1980-1983) | CVCC | 10W-40 | Castrol, Royal Purple, Quaker State | 3.7 quarts | 112787 | $28 |
| 3rd (1984-1987) | D15A2, D15B1 | 5W-30 | Amsoil, Mobil 1, Royal Purple | 3.7 quarts | 112788 | $32 |
| 4th (1988-1991) | D15B2, D15B7 | 5W-30 | Castrol, Pennzoil, Mobil 1 | 3.7 quarts | 112789 | $25 |
| 5th (1992-1995) | D15B7, D16Z6 | 5W-30, 10W-30 | Royal Purple, Valvoline, Mobil 1 | 4.4 quarts | 112790 | $28 |
| 6th (1996-2000) | D16Y5, D16Y7, | 5W-30, 5W-20, 10W-30 | Amsoil, Mobil 1, Pennzoil | 4.4 quarts | 112791 | $32 |
| D16Y8, B16A2 | ||||||
| 7th (2001-2005) | D17A1, D17A2 | 5W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30 | Mobil 1, Castrol, Valvoline | 4.4 quarts | 112792 | $35 |
| K20A3 | ||||||
| 8th (2006-2011) | R18A1, K20Z2 | 5W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30 | Mobil 1, Pennzoil, Valvoline | 4.4 quarts | 112793 | $28 |
| K20Z3, K24Z7 | ||||||
| 9th (2012-2015) | R18Z1, K24Z7 | 0W-20, 5W-20, 5W-30 | Royal Purple, Mobil 1, Castrol | 4.4 quarts | 112794 | $32 |
| K24W9 | ||||||
| 10th (2016-2021) | L15B7, K20C2 | 0W-20, 5W-20, 5W-30 | Amsoil, Royal Purple, Valvoline | 3.8 |
Which oil filter is right for you?
| Generation | Engine | Popular Oil Filter Brands (USA) | Catalog Number | Approximate Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Gen (1972-1979) | 1169cc, 1237cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH3593A, HP-1004 | $5-15 |
| 2nd Gen (1980-1983) | 1335cc, 1488cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH3593A, HP-1004 | $5-15 |
| 3rd Gen (1984-1987) | 1396cc, 1488cc, 1590cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH3593A, HP-1004 | $5-15 |
| 4th Gen (1988-1991) | 1396cc, 1493cc, 1590cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH3593A, HP-1004 | $5-15 |
| 5th Gen (1992-1995) | 1493cc, 1590cc, 1797cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH3593A, HP-1004 | $5-15 |
| 6th Gen (1996-2000) | 1590cc, 1668cc, 1797cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH3593A, HP-1004 | $5-15 |
| 7th Gen (2001-2005) | 1668cc, 1797cc, 1998cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH3593A, HP-1004 | $5-15 |
| 8th Gen (2006-2011) | 1799cc, 1998cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH7317, HP-1010 | $5-15 |
| 9th Gen (2012-2015) | 1799cc, 1998cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH7317, HP-1010 | $5-15 |
| 10th Gen (2016-2022) | 1496cc, 1597cc, 1996cc | Bosch, Fram, K&N | 3323, PH7317, HP-1010 | $5-15 |
Necessary tools and conditions
Performing an oil change on your Honda Civic requires several tools and conditions to ensure that the process is successful. Some of the necessary tools and conditions include:
- Oil filter wrench
- Drain plug wrench
- Funnel
- Oil drain pan
- Clean rags or paper towels
- New oil filter
- New engine oil
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Jack stands or ramps
- Wheel chocks
- Properly ventilated area
- Flat and level surface to work on
- Proper disposal methods for used oil and filter
Before beginning an oil change, it’s important to ensure that the car is on a flat and level surface and is securely supported with either jack stands or ramps. Use wheel chocks to prevent the car from rolling while you work. Also, make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any potential hazards.
It’s also important to make sure you have the correct amount and type of engine oil for your Honda Civic. Refer to the owner’s manual to determine the recommended oil type and viscosity for your car. Additionally, make sure you have a new oil filter that is compatible with your car’s make and model.
Proper disposal methods should also be in place for the used oil and filter. Many auto parts stores offer free oil recycling, so it’s important to take advantage of these services to protect the environment.
By ensuring that you have all the necessary tools and conditions, you can perform an oil change on your Honda Civic with confidence and ease.
How to warm up the engine before changing the oil?
Warming up the engine before changing the oil is essential to ensure that the oil is at its optimal consistency for draining. You should let the engine run for at least five to ten minutes to warm up the oil, but make sure not to overheat the engine. Overheating can cause burns or other damage, so be careful when touching the engine parts.
Step-by-step instruction
If you want to change your Honda Civic engine oil yourself, follow these steps:
- Gather the necessary tools and equipment. You will need a wrench, an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, a funnel, gloves, and new oil and oil filter.
- Park your car on a flat surface and apply the parking brake. Turn off the engine and let it cool down for a few minutes.
- Locate the oil drain plug under the car. Place the drain pan under the plug and use the wrench to unscrew the plug. Allow the oil to drain completely into the pan.
- Once the oil has drained, remove the old oil filter using the oil filter wrench. Be sure to keep the drain pan under the filter to catch any remaining oil.
- Take the new oil filter and lubricate its rubber gasket with some of the new oil. Then, screw it onto the engine by hand until it is tight, and then tighten it further with the oil filter wrench.
- Replace the oil drain plug and tighten it securely.
- Use a funnel to pour the new oil into the engine. Refer to your car manual for the appropriate amount of oil to use.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to allow the oil to circulate throughout the engine.
- Turn off the engine and check the oil level using the dipstick. If the level is low, add more oil as needed.
- Finally, dispose of the used oil and filter properly.
The entire process usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your experience level and how accessible the oil filter and drain plug are.
Changing your own engine oil can save you time and money, but be sure to follow the proper procedures to ensure your car’s engine remains in good condition.
Replacing transmission fluid in automatic transmission
Automatic transmission fluid is an essential component for the smooth operation of your Honda Civic. Over time, it breaks down, loses its effectiveness, and can cause damage to the transmission. To avoid costly repairs, it is important to regularly replace the transmission fluid in your car. Here’s what you need to know about changing the transmission fluid in your Honda Civic.
What is the frequency (interval) of changing the transmission fluid in an automatic transmission?
The frequency of changing transmission fluid in an automatic transmission depends on a variety of factors, such as the make and model of your car, your driving habits, and the type of transmission fluid you use. Generally, it is recommended to replace the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
What transmission fluid to choose?
When selecting transmission fluid for your Honda Civic, it’s important to choose the right type of fluid to ensure that your transmission operates smoothly and efficiently. Below is a table with a selection of transmission fluid options for Honda Civic, organized by generation (years of production), engine name, required amount of fluid, three popular brands in the US, the catalog number of each product, and the approximate cost in the US.
| Generation (Year) | Engine | Fluid Amount | Popular Brands in the US | Catalog Number | Approx. Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8th Gen (2006-2011) | R18A1 | 3.8 quarts | Honda ATF DW-1, Valvoline MaxLife, Mobil 1 | 08200-9008, 804751, 112980 | $8-11 per quart |
| 9th Gen (2012-2015) | R18Z1 | 3.7 quarts | Honda ATF DW-1, Valvoline MaxLife, Mobil 1 | 08200-9008, 804751, 112980 | $8-11 per quart |
| 10th Gen (2016-2022) | 2.0L/1.5L Turbo | 3.7 quarts | Honda ATF DW-1, Valvoline MaxLife, Mobil 1 | 08200-9008, 804751, 112980 | $8-11 per quart |
Replacing the transmission fluid in an automatic transmission is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. If you are a beginner and want to do it yourself, follow these step-by-step instructions for the Honda Civic:
Required tools:
- Jack stands or ramps
- Wrench set
- Drain pan
- Funnel
- Transmission fluid pump
- New transmission fluid
- New transmission filter (if applicable)
Step-by-step instruction
Step 1: Warm up the engine Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes to warm up the transmission fluid. This will help it to drain more easily.
Step 2: Jack up the car Using jack stands or ramps, lift the car and support it securely.
Step 3: Locate the transmission pan The transmission pan is located underneath the car, and it holds the transmission fluid. Use your owner’s manual to help locate it.
Step 4: Drain the transmission fluid Place the drain pan under the transmission pan and loosen the bolts with a wrench to remove the pan. Once the pan is removed, let the fluid drain completely into the drain pan.
Step 5: Replace the transmission filter (if applicable) If your Honda Civic has a transmission filter, remove it and replace it with a new one.
Step 6: Refill with new transmission fluid Using a funnel and a transmission fluid pump, refill the transmission with the recommended amount of new transmission fluid. Be sure to use the correct type of transmission fluid for your Honda Civic, as listed in the owner’s manual.
Step 7: Start the engine and check for leaks Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Check the transmission fluid level and make sure it is at the recommended level. Check for any leaks under the car.
That’s it! With these simple steps, you can change the transmission fluid in your Honda Civic’s automatic transmission. This process should take approximately 1-2 hours, depending on your skill level and the tools you have available.
Possible questions after self-service
Performing self-service on a car can be a great way to save money and gain some knowledge about your vehicle. However, it’s important to ensure that the work is done correctly, as improper maintenance can lead to issues down the road. In this article, we’ll address some common questions that may arise after performing self-service on your Honda Civic.
What problems can arise after an incorrect self-changing engine oil?
One of the most common issues that can arise after incorrect self-changing of engine oil is engine damage. This can occur if the wrong type of oil is used or if the oil is not changed frequently enough. Some of the signs of engine damage due to improper oil changes include low oil pressure, strange engine noises, and poor performance.
Another issue that can arise is oil leaks. If the oil filter is not tightened properly or the drain plug is not tightened to the right torque specification, it can result in oil leaking from the engine. This can lead to engine damage and potentially dangerous situations if the oil leaks onto the hot exhaust system.
How can I check for engine oil leaks after changing it myself?
After changing the engine oil yourself, it’s important to check for oil leaks. One way to do this is to look for oil spots on the ground under the car. Another way is to inspect the engine bay for any signs of oil leaks, such as oil spots or wet areas.
If you suspect an oil leak, you can use a leak detection dye. Simply add the dye to the engine oil and run the engine for a short period of time. Then, use a UV light to check for any signs of the dye around the engine. This can help pinpoint the location of the oil leak.
How to reset the oil change counter?
On some Honda Civic models, there is an oil change counter that needs to be reset after the oil has been changed. To reset the counter, follow these steps:
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position (do not start the engine).
- Press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel until the oil life indicator is displayed.
- Press and hold the SEL/RESET button for about 10 seconds. The oil life indicator will blink and then reset to 100%.
What to do with old oil after replacement?
It’s important to properly dispose of old engine oil after it has been replaced. Simply throwing it away can be harmful to the environment. Instead, take the used oil to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil. Many of these locations will also accept oil filters, oil containers, and other related items for recycling.
In conclusion, performing self-service on a car can be a great way to save money and learn more about your vehicle. However, it’s important to ensure that the work is done correctly to prevent issues down the road. If you have any concerns or questions after performing self-service on your Honda Civic, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a professional mechanic.
