How to Choose the Oil and Fluids for a Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is a long-lived passenger car that has evolved from a compact hatchback into a mid-size vehicle. Some of the fluid specifications are unique among passenger vehicles, such as the recommendation to use heavy-duty DOT 3 brake fluid. These steps apply to Honda Accord model years 2003 onward, and may be used as a general reference for other model years.

Instructions

1

Maintain your manual transmission in peak operating condition with Honda Manual Transmission Fluid. In a pinch, SAE 10W30 or 10W40 motor oil is suitable for a temporary substitute. In the automatic transmission, use only Honda Automatic Transmission Fluid Z1. Using other transmission fluids may reduce your vehicle's shifting performance.

2

Refill your brake fluid reservoir as necessary with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. Another DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid may be substituted, but only as a temporary replacement.

3

Top off your power steering fluid levels with Honda Power Steering Fluid. Another brand of power steering fluid may be used as a temporary replacement. Don't use automatic transmission fluid as power steering fluid in this vehicle.

4

Use API premium grade detergent engine oil, SAE viscosity 5W20.