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.
Last verified: 2026-02-27 | Source: 2022 Acura MDX Owner’s Manual