Automakers recommend different oil types for their vehicle models. You should use the right engine oil for your car to enhance its performance and maximize the engine’s service life. So, what is the best engine oil for a 2010 Honda Accord?
2010 Honda Accord models fitted with 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder or 3.5-liter 6-cylinder engines require SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil. They take 4.2 quarts and 4.5 quarts, respectively. You should perform the oil change on time and with the correct oil type to keep the engine well-lubricated.
- What Kind of Oil Do I Need for My Honda Accord?
- Can You Put 5W-30 In A 5W-20 Engine Honda Accord?
- Does Honda Recommend Synthetic Oil?
- Should I Use Synthetic Oil in My Honda Accord?
- How Many Quarts Does A 2010 Honda Accord Take?
- Is Honda 0W-20 Oil Synthetic?
- Does It Matter What Oil Brand You Use?
- Recommended Oil Types for Other Honda Accord Model Years
- How to Change the Oil in a 2010 Honda Accord
Keep reading for detailed information about 2010 Honda Accord oil types, including responses to commonly-asked questions.
What Kind of Oil Do I Need for My Honda Accord?
The most recommended oil for your 2010 Honda Accord is SAE 5W-20 full synthetic oil. This is the best for models fitted with the 4-cylinder 2.4L engines and 6-cylinder 3.5L engines. You will need 4.2 quarts and 4.5 quarts of engine oil, respectively.
But the 2010 Honda Accord models can also use conventional oil types, provided it is SAE 5W-20. The only task is to maintain a regular oil change depending on the oil type you put in your engines.
If you go for a conventional SAE 5W-20 conventional oil, change it every 3,000 miles. This oil type is cheaper, less expensive, and offers more protection to older engines.
But if you use full synthetic SAE 5W-20 2010 Honda Accord oil, change it every 7,500-10,000 miles. Besides a longer service life, synthetic oils flow quickly through the engine. They also offer better corrosion protection and resist sludge buildup. However, you pay more for this oil type.
Can You Put 5W-30 In A 5W-20 Engine Honda Accord?
No. It is not recommended because it can potentially damage your engine. To understand this, let’s briefly explain what the different oil specifications mean according to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
Understanding SAE Engine Oil Specifications
Oil types are specified according to their viscosities at different temperatures. Viscosity is the thickness of the oil, which determines its resistance to flow. Thick engine oils are more viscous than thin oils.
The viscosities change with temperature, which varies from one oil type to the next. For example, the 5W-30 is thicker than the 5W-20 at high temperatures. They have the same viscosity at lower temperatures or winter conditions.
The number before the W indicates the flow rate of the oil at 0 degrees Fahrenheit as determined by the SAE. The lower the value, the better for starting engines in cold or winter conditions. On the other hand, the value that comes after W denotes the viscosity at 212 degrees Fahrenheit. In this case, the 5W-30 is thicker than 5W-20 oil and is ideal for use in high temperatures.
The Difference in Viscosity at Operating Temperatures
Overall, 5W-30 and 5W-20 have the same thickness (viscosity) at 0 degrees Fahrenheit or when starting the engine. But at operating or high temperatures, 5W-30 oil remains thicker and performs better engine lubrication. So, you can use 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 if you live or use your Honda Accord in high-temperature regions.
The difference in viscosities of a 5W-30 and a 5W-20 at operating temperature makes the former not ideal for engines designed for the latter. The 5W-20 becomes less viscous at high temperatures, making it flow easily between the engine components for better lubrication. The more viscous 5W-30 at the same temperature has a lower flow rate and may not lubricate your engine as expected.
Using 5W-30 instead of 5W-20 oil can void the powertrain warranty, reduce the engine performance, and potentially damage the engine. Just stick to the SAE 5W-20 specified by the automaker.
Related content: Can You Mix 5W30 And 0W20? (Here’s The Answer)
Does Honda Recommend Synthetic Oil?
Yes. Honda recommends synthetic motor oil, which is what Honda Genuine OEM Motor Oil is. These synthetic oils are more refined and engineered for your Honda car. The additives give the engine oils better lubrication and protection and lengthen their service life. You won’t have to change the synthetic engine oil as often as a conventional one.
Besides, high-performing engines in newer Honda models use only synthetic motor oil. Only the 2010 Honda Accord and earlier models use conventional engine oil.
Should I Use Synthetic Oil in My Honda Accord?
You can use synthetic motor oil in your 2010 Honda Accord or newer models. It is the most recommended type for better engine protection and longer service life, but you go deeper into your pocket. Synthetic motor oils are more expensive than conventional ones because of their quality.
Use synthetic oil in your 2010 Honda Accord if you can afford it. But you can also use conventional engine oil, provided it is SAE 5W-20. But you will have to change. It is a more affordable option, though you should change it much earlier to keep your engine running smoothly. Adhere to the maintenance routine, regardless of the motor oil you use. Don’t skip even a day!
How Many Quarts Does A 2010 Honda Accord Take?
The 2010 Honda Accord has three engine choices. The LX and LX-P are 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engines capable of 177 hp and 161 lb-ft of torque, an upgraded version fitted in EX sedans and coupes delivers 190 horsepower. These require 4.2 quarts of SAE 5W-20 motor oil.
The other engine available in EX trim levels is a 3.5-liter, 6-cylinder, which produces 271 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque. You will need 4.5 quarts of SAE 5W-20 motor oil if your 2010 Honda Accord has this engine.
Is Honda 0W-20 Oil Synthetic?
Yes, Honda 0W-20 is a fully synthetic motor oil formulated specifically for Honda vehicles. It is engineered with base stocks for enhanced engine protection and better service life than conventional motor oils.
The Honda 0W-20 has outstanding viscosity stability and delivers the best performance at high temperatures. These properties make it ideal for your Honda Accord or any Honda model you own if you drive under adverse conditions.
This full-synthetic motor oil exceeds the API SP certification and ILSAC GF-6 minimum performance requirement. It is the real deal for protecting your Honda Accord engine.
Does It Matter What Oil Brand You Use?
In short, it does matter. The quality or constituents of synthetic engine oils differ from one brand to the next. They may have the same SAE ratings but with a few slight differences that affect their performance. American Honda recommends Honda Genuine Motor Oil for their car models because of that reason.
But you can also use premium-grade conventional motor oil or any full synthetic blend available at the dealership. What you should keenly consider, however, is the viscosity rating as specified in your owner’s manual. As mentioned, you need SAE 5W-20 for a 2010 Honda Accord model. Also, check if it has the API certification seal and starburst symbol as a quality insurance stamp.
Related content: Is Quaker State a Good Motor Oil? (Here’s Our Verdict)
Recommended Oil Types for Other Honda Accord Model Years
This chart highlights the recommended oil types for different Honda Accord models. You can use it as your reference.
| Honda Accord Model Years | Recommended Oil Type |
| 003-2010 L4 & V6 | 5W-20 (S/UFS), topped off with 0W-20 (UFS) |
| 2011-2020 L4 & V6 | 0W-20 (UFS) |
| 2005-2007 Hybrid | 5W-20 (S/UFS) |
| 2014-2020 Hybrid or Plug-in | 0W-20 (UFS) |
How to Change the Oil in a 2010 Honda Accord
You can change your 2010 Honda Accord engine oil in your garage if you have bought the recommended 5W-20 motor oil or take your car to the dealer. An oil change is usually a free service, but that can depend on your location.
If you choose to change the oil yourself, use the following steps:
- Lift the car on a jack to get enough space to access the undercarriage. Open the hood at this first step.
- Locate the oil pan underneath the car. Put a bucket or a container that can hold the used oil under the oil pan and remove the drain plug to bleed the oil. Use a socket wrench to unfasten the drain plug.
- Find the oil filter and turn it counterclockwise to remove it. That will allow more oil to drain from the engine into the bucket. So, leave the collector container in place for a few minutes to avoid oiling your garage floor.
- Use oil to lubricate the O-ring on your new filter and screw it into place by hand. This is a straightforward step.
- Return the drain plug and use the socket wrench to tighten it. Ensure it is firm to avoid possible leaks when you replace the oil.
- Remove the oil cap, usually located at the top of the engine assembly.
- Insert a funnel into the hole and pour in your new SAE 5W-20 motor oil, which is the right type for your 2010 Accord’s engine. The amount depends on the engine fitted on your car. The 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder requires 4.2 quarts, while the 3.5-liter, 6-cylinder requires 4.5 quarts.
- Return the oil cap and use the dipstick to check engine oil levels, ensuring it is correct.
Brian is an auto technician who writes DIY repair articles and creates how-to videos for MechanicAsk. He focuses on common repairs like brakes, oil changes, and lighting. Brian draws on his 5 years of dealership experience to explain repairs in an easy-to-follow manner, even for novice do-it-yourselfers. His technical articles always include detailed tool lists, supply checklists, and visual guides.
