Complete Oil Specifications
Your 2022 Acura MDX with the 3.5L VTEC V6 requires 0W-20 full synthetic oil meeting API SP / ILSAC GF-6A. The MDX is Acura’s flagship three-row SUV and one of the top-selling luxury SUVs in North America. Its 3.5L J35Y V6 is a refined successor to Honda/Acura’s legendary V6 family.
Quick Reference
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 0W-20 |
| API Rating | API SP |
| ILSAC Rating | GF-6A |
| Capacity (with filter) | 5.7 quarts |
| Oil Filter | Honda/Acura 15400-PLM-A02 |
| Normal Interval | Maintenance Minder (oil life monitor) (service when oil life reaches 15%) |
Why 0W-20 is Specified for the J35Y V6
The J35Y V6 uses Honda’s i-VTEC system with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). VCM deactivates cylinders at highway speeds to improve fuel economy — a process that requires rapid and precise hydraulic actuation. 0W-20’s low cold-start viscosity ensures oil reaches the VCM solenoids instantly, while its optimized HTHS viscosity maintains adequate film thickness when cylinders reactivate.
Using incorrect oil will:
- ❌ Impair hydraulic response of the VCM cylinder deactivation system
- ❌ Increase oil consumption — the J35Y is sensitive to viscosity under VCM operation
- ❌ Risk rougher transitions between 3-cylinder and 6-cylinder operation
Acura-Approved Oil Brands
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✅ Acura Genuine Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20
-
✅ Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 0W-20
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✅ Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 0W-20
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✅ Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 0W-20
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✅ Castrol Edge Full Synthetic 0W-20
Verify the bottle carries the API SP and ILSAC GF-6A starburst certification. Acura recommends only full synthetic 0W-20 — synthetic blends are not recommended for this engine.
Acura Maintenance Minder System
The 2022 MDX does not use a fixed mileage interval. Instead, Acura’s Maintenance Minder system calculates oil life based on:
- Engine temperature history
- Driving style and load
- Engine start-stop cycles
- Elapsed time
Service your oil when the dashboard displays code A1 or when oil life drops to 15% or below. Even if no alert appears, change the oil at least once per year.
Installation Details
Drain Plug Torque: 30 ft-lbs
Replace the aluminum crush washer at every oil change. Do not reuse the old washer.
OEM Filter: Honda/Acura 15400-PLM-A02
Aftermarket Filters:
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Mobil 1 M1-110A
-
WIX 57356
-
K&N HP-1010
Pro Tip: The J35Y V6 holds 5.7 quarts — significantly more than Honda’s four-cylinder engines. Confirm final fill level with the dipstick after adding oil, as overfilling a VTEC V6 can cause oil aeration under VCM operation.
FAQs
What oil does a 2022 Acura MDX take?
0W-20 full synthetic engine oil meeting API SP / ILSAC GF-6A.
How many quarts does the MDX 3.5L V6 need?
5.7 quarts with a new filter installed.
Can I use Honda Genuine oil in my Acura MDX?
Yes. Honda and Acura use the same engine oil formula for the J35Y platform. Honda Genuine Full Synthetic 0W-20 meets Acura’s specification.
Why does the MDX use more oil than a Honda Pilot?
The 2022 MDX and Pilot share the same J35Y engine. Both require approximately 5.7 quarts. If your records show a different capacity, verify the model year — earlier MDX generations used a different capacity.
How often should I change the oil?
Follow the Acura Maintenance Minder. Service when oil life reaches 15% or when the A1 maintenance code appears. Change at least once per year regardless of mileage.
Need these specs on your phone? Download OilFinderPro app for offline access and oil change reminders.
Last verified: 2026-02-27 | Source: 2022 Acura MDX Owner’s Manual