Honda Civic Hatchback 2023 Engine Oil and Fluids

The engine oil and fluids are the 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback’s lifeline, keeping it running well and lasting a long time. Modern engines are very complicated. They have a lot of moving parts that work together well thanks to the right greasing and cooling systems. Engine oil acts as a guardian, making sure that friction is kept to a minimum and parts work together smoothly. The type and quality of engine oil suggested for the Civic Hatchback are very important for keeping the car running at its best. A vehicle’s fluids, like coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, are also unsung stars. Each fluid has a specific job that helps the vehicle work and stay safe as a whole. The engine of a Civic Hatchback needs to be checked and maintained regularly to make sure it works well and safely. The engine oil life tracking system helps with maintenance even more by showing when it’s time to change the oil based on a number of factors. When you drive your 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback, keep in mind that these fluids aren’t just parts; they’re what keep the car moving smoothly and are a testament to how well the car was built and how well it was taken care of.

Recommended Engine Oil

Use genuine engine oil or another commercial engine oil of suitable type and viscosity (for the ambient temperature) as shown in the image that follows. Oil is a major contributor to your engine’s performance and longevity. If you drive the vehicle with insufficient or deteriorated oil, the engine may fail or be damaged.

Models with Auto Idle Stop

• Formulated to improve fuel economy.

Recommended Engine Oil
Engine Oil Additives Your vehicle does not require oil additives. In fact, they may adversely affect the engine performance and durability.

Models without Auto Idle Stop

• Formulated to improve fuel economy.

Synthetic oil
You may also use synthetic motor oil if it is labeled with the API Certification Seal and is the specified viscosity grade.

The following seal indicates the oil is energy-conserving and that it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s latest requirements.

Oil Check
We recommend that you check the engine oil level every time you refuel. Park the vehicle on level ground. Wait approximately three minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1. Remove the dipstick (orange or black).
2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.
3. Insert the dipstick back all the way into its hole.
   If the oil level is near or below the lower mark, slowly add oil, being careful not to overfill.
4. Remove the dipstick again, and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks. Add oil if necessary.

NOTICE
Under certain driving conditions, it is normal for the engine oil level to rise above the upper mark. If you have a concern, consult a dealer for details.

Adding Engine Oil

1. Unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap.
2. Add oil slowly.
3. Reinstall the engine oil fill cap, and tighten it securely.
4. Wait for three minutes and recheck the engine oil dipstick.

NOTICE
Do not fill the engine oil above the upper mark. Overfilling the engine oil may result in leaks and engine damage. If any oil spills, wipe it away immediately. Spilled oil may damage the engine compartment components.

Changing the Engine Oil and Oil Filter

You must change the engine oil and oil filter regularly in order to maintain the engine’s lubrication. The engine may be damaged if they are not changed regularly. Change the oil and filter in accordance with the maintenance message on the driver information interface.

1. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, and then turn the engine off.
2. Open the hood and remove the engine oil fill cap.
3. Remove the Phillips-head screws and slotted head screws by turning 90°counter-clockwise on the undercarriage and remove the undercover.
   NOTICE
   You may damage the environment if you do not dispose of the oil in a suitable way. If you are changing the oil by yourself, appropriately dispose of the used oil. Put the oil in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not throw the oil away into a garbage can or onto the ground.
4. Remove the drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine, and drain the oil into a suitable container.
5. Remove the oil filter and dispose of the remaining oil.
6. Check that the filter gasket is not stuck to the engine contact surface.
   • If it is stuck, you must detach it.
7. Wipe away dirt and dust adhering to the contact surface of the engine block, and install a new oil filter.
   • Apply a light coat of new engine oil to the filter gasket.
8. Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt.
   • Tightening torque: 30 lbf∙ft (40 N∙m, 4.0 kgf∙m)
9. Pour the recommended engine oil into the engine.
   • Engine oil change capacity (including filter):
     1.5 L engine models
     3.7 US qt (3.5 L)
     2.0 L engine models with Auto Idle Stop
     4.4 US qt (4.2 L)
     2.0 L engine models without Auto Idle Stop
     5.7 US qt (5.4 L)
     You will need a special wrench to replace the oil filter. You can buy this wrench from a dealer. When installing the new oil filter, follow the instructions supplied with the oil filter. Reinstall the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. If the Engine oil pressure low appears, turn off the engine, and check your work.
10. Reinstall the engine oil fill cap securely and start the engine.
11. Run the engine for a few minutes, and then check that there is no leak from the drain bolt or oil filter.
12. Stop the engine, wait for three minutes, and then check the oil level on the dipstick.
    • If necessary, add more engine oil.

Engine Coolant

Specified coolant: Honda Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 This coolant is premixed with 50% antifreeze and 50% water. Do not add any straight antifreeze or water. We recommend you check the engine coolant level every time you refuel. Check the reserve tank first. If it is completely empty, also check the coolant level in the radiator. Add the engine coolant accordingly.

Reserve Tank

1. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
2. Check the amount of coolant in the reserve tank.
   • If the coolant level is below the MIN mark, add the specified coolant until it reaches the MAX mark.
3. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

WARNING
Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you. Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

NOTICE

Genuine Honda engine coolant is a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water that can withstand freezing at temperatures as low as about −31°F (−35°C). If your vehicle is consistently subjected to temperatures below this, the concentration of antifreeze in the coolant should be increased. Consult a dealer for details. If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major brand of non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Check that it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. Continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

Radiator

1. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
2. Turn the radiator cap 1/8 turn counterclockwise and relieve any pressure in the cooling system.
3. Push down and turn the radiator cap counter-clockwise to remove it.
4. The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.
5. Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it fully.

Do not add rust inhibitors or other additives to your vehicle’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or with the engine components.

NOTICE
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; they can Radiator Cap damage components in the engine compartment.

Specified coolant: Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2

This coolant is premixed with 50% antifreeze and 50% water. Do not add any straight antifreeze or water. We recommend you check the engine coolant level every time you refuel. Check the reserve tank. Add the engine coolant accordingly.

Checking the Coolant

1. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
2. Check the amount of coolant in the reserve tank.
   • If the coolant level is below the MIN mark, add the specified coolant until it reaches the MAX mark.
3. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

WARNING
Removing the reserve tank cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you. Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the reserve tank cap.

NOTICE
Genuine Honda engine coolant is a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water that can withstand freezing at temperatures as low as about −31°F (−35°C). If your vehicle is consistently subjected to temperatures below this, the concentration of antifreeze in the coolant should be increased. Consult a dealer for details. If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major brand of non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Check that it is a high quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. Continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

Adding the Coolant

1. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
2. Turn the reserve tank cap 1/8 turn counterclockwise and relieve any pressure in the cooling system.
3. Push down and turn the reserve tank cap counterclockwise to remove it.
4. Pour coolant into the reserve tank until it reaches the MAX mark.
5. Put the reserve tank cap back on, and tighten it fully.

Do not add rust inhibitors or other additives to your vehicle’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or with the engine components.

NOTICE
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; they can damage components in the engine compartment.

Fluid: Transmission Fluid
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) Fluid

Specified fluid: Honda HCF-2 Have a dealer check the fluid level and replace if necessary. Do not attempt to check or change the continuously variable transmission fluid yourself.

Manual Transmission Fluid

Specified fluid: Honda MTF Have a dealer check the fluid level and replace if necessary. Do not attempt to check or change the manual transmission fluid yourself.

NOTICE
Do not mix Honda HCF-2 with other transmission fluids. Using a transmission fluid other than Honda HCF-2 may adversely affect the operation and durability of your vehicle’s transmission, and damage the transmission. Any damage caused by using a transmission fluid that is not equivalent to Honda HCF-2 is not covered by Honda’s new vehicle limited warranty.

NOTICE
If Honda MTF is not available, you may use the API-certificated SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20 viscosity motor oil as a temporary measure. Replace with MTF as soon as possible. Motor oil does not contain the proper additives for the transmission and continued use can cause decreased shifting performance and lead to transmission damage.

Brake/Clutch Fluid

Specified fluid: Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3

Checking the Brake Fluid

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reserve tank.

Manual transmission models
The brake fluid reserve tank is also used for your vehicle’s clutch fluid. As long as you keep the brake fluid level as instructed above, there is no need for checking the clutch fluid level.

NOTICE
Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle’s braking system and can cause extensive damage. If the specified brake fluid is not available, you should use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid from a sealed container as a temporary replacement. Using any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the longevity of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible. If the brake fluid level is at or below the MIN mark, have a dealer inspect the vehicle for leaks or worn brake pads as soon as possible.

Refilling Window Washer Fluid

Check the amount of window washer fluid. If the level is low, fill the washer reservoir.

Canadian models with Auto Idle Stop
If the washer fluid is low, a message appears on the driver information interface. Pour the washer fluid carefully. Do not overflow the reservoir.

NOTICE
Do not use engine antifreeze or vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir. Antifreeze can damage your vehicle’s paint. A vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump. Use only commercially available windshield washer fluid. Avoid prolonged use of hard water to prevent lime scale buildup.

FAQ