How to Choose the Oil and Fluids for a Honda Prelude

The Honda Prelude is somewhat unique among other passenger cars for several reasons. One, you can use DOT 4 brake fluid in the braking and clutch systems, and two, you should absolutely not use transmission fluid in your Honda Prelude power steering fluid reservoir. These steps apply specifically to the 1992 to 2001 model years of the Honda Prelude.

Instructions

1

Change the engine oil in your Honda Prelude regularly to help extend your engine's life. Use "Energy Conserving II" SG grade oil. In the F22A1 and H23A1 engines, 5W30 is the preferred viscosity, while 10W30 should be used in the H22A1 engine.

2

Maintain proper levels of automatic transmission fluid with Honda Premium Formula Automatic Transmission Fluid or an equivalent DEXRON II automatic transmission fluid. For a manual transmission, use oil with an API service grade of SF or SG, in viscosity 10W30 or 10W40.

3

Top off levels of hydraulic fluid in both your brake and hydraulic clutch fluid reservoirs with DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

4

Refill your power steering fluid reservoir as necessary with Honda Power Steering Fluid V or an equivalent power steering fluid.

5

Mix equal parts Genuine Honda antifreeze with distilled water to fill your coolant system. Honda Prelude owners have reported that while other brands of coolant, like Prestone, seem to work just fine, they find the Honda coolant to be of higher quality.