2012 Acura TSX Oil Type and Change
If you are the owner of a 2012 Acura TSX, then you will need to change the oil at some point. The good news is that it’s a pretty easy process! In this blog post, we will walk you through the steps involved in changing the oil on your Acura TSX. We will also provide information on the type of oil that should be used in this vehicle.
2012 Acura TSX Oil Type
The 2012 Acura TSX does not require a specific type of oil, so any conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic motor oil should work. The engine in the TSX is a V-TEC design, so it’s important to use an oil that can handle high temperatures and severe conditions.
VISCOSITY GRADE
Acura recommends using the oil “Honda Genuine Motor Oil” for your car.
If Honda Genuine Motor Oil is not available, you may use the API certificated Premium-grade SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20 viscosity motor oil any other brand as a temporary replacement.
However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives, and continued use can cause decreased shifting performance and lead to transmission damage. Replace as soon as it is convenient.
CAPACITY
The oil capacity including a filter for a 4-cylinder engine is 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) whereas, for a 6-cylinder engine is 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters).
SPECIFICATION OF OIL
The 2012 Acura TSX engine meets the following specifications:
- API SN Resource Conserving
- ILSAC GF-4
- JASO MA/CD.
You can use oil from this list of brands to change your engine oil in 2012 Acura TSX:
- Mobil
- Pennzoil
- Castrol
If you are using a full synthetic oil, it is not necessary to change the filter unless it is damaged or extremely dirty. If you are using a conventional or synthetic blend oil, change the filter at each oil change.
2012 Acura TSX Oil Change Intervals
The 2012 Acura TSX has different oil change intervals, depending on the type of engine you have. For the V-Tech model, the recommended interval is every 7000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first.
If you have the I-VTEC engine, the recommended interval is every 10000 miles or every 18 months. Be sure to use only Acura Genuine Oil Filters and Motor Oil in order to maintain your vehicle’s warranty.
Best Oil for 2012 Acura TSX
The best type of oil to use for the 2012 Acura TSX is a synthetic blend. This will provide better performance and protection than using conventional oil. Be sure to use the correct weight and viscosity of oil, as specified in your owner’s manual.
Oil (By Manufacturer) – Acura recommends using“Honda Genuine Full Synthetic Oil” SAE 5W-20 or SAE 0W-20.
Oil (Our Choice) – Castrol Edge 0W-20 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil. Castrol EDGE provides the highest level of protection for critical engine parts helping your car to perform at its maximum. Castrol EDGE is an advanced full synthetic motor oil with a unique and proprietary formula that reduces volatility and provides superior protection for critical engine parts helping your vehicle operate efficiently at power.
Oil Filter (By Manufacturer) – Acura recommends using a FRAM Ulta Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter. FRAM Ultra Synthetic Oil Filter XG7317 helps get top performance from newer engines and provides maximum protection for older ones. Engineered for all motor oil types, Ultra Synthetic Oil Filters have the ultimate dual-layer synthetic media which provides up to 20,000 miles of engine protection. This high capacity, high-efficiency filter delivers peak performance. No matter what you drive, or what motor oil you use, FRAM has a filter for you.
How to Change Oil By Yourself – Step by Step
The following is a simple guide on how to change the oil in your 2012 Acura TSX by yourself. This guide can also be applied to other years and models of the Acura TSX as well. Originally is to gather all of the necessary tools and materials for the job.
These include:
- an oil pan,
- funnel,
- new oil filter,
- drain plug washer,
- fresh engine oil,
- a ratchet with the socket.
STEP 1: PREP
Jack up the car and place it on jack stands. Open the hood and locate the engine oil cap. Remove the cap and set it aside. Locate the black plastic shield in front of the engine. This is held in place by several screws, which can be removed with a Phillips head screwdriver. Once this shield is removed, you will have access to all of the engine’s components, including the oil filter.
STEP 2: REMOVE THE COVER
Remove the cap and set it aside. Locate the black plastic shield in front of the engine. This is held in place by several screws, which can be removed with a Phillips head screwdriver. Once this shield is removed, you will have access to all of the engine’s components, including the oil filter.
Place an oil pan beneath the drain plug at the base of the engine. The drain plug is located on the very bottom of the engine and is marked with an “Oil” symbol. Use a ratchet with a socket to remove the plug (it will be a 17mm socket).
STEP 3: DRAINING THE OIL
Allow the oil to drain into the pan.
This could take up to 30-45 minutes, depending on how much oil is left in the system.
STEP 4: PUT BACK THE DRAIN PLUG
Once drained, reattach the plug by screwing it back in clockwise and tightening securely with a wrench/socket set.
STEP 5: REPLACE THE OIL FILTER
Once the oil has drained, use a wrench to remove the old oil filter. This is located on top of the engine, just behind the black plastic shield. Apply some pressure and turn it counter-clockwise until it comes loose. Discard the old filter.
Lubricate the new oil filter with fresh engine oil before installing it. Install the new filter by hand until it’s snug, then tighten it another ¼ turn with a wrench.
STEP 6: ADD THE NEW OIL
Pour in your desired amount of fresh engine oil (the recommended amount can be found in your car’s owner’s manual). Replace the black plastic shield, screws, and engine oil cap.
Lower the car to the ground and remove the jack stands.
Startup your car and check for any leaks. If everything looks good, go for a drive to circulate the new oil. Congratulations – you’ve just changed your car’s oil!
If you have any questions or concerns about this process, feel free to consult your Acura TSX’s owner’s manual or contact a certified mechanic. Changing your own oil is a great way to save money and learn more about your car, so don’t be afraid to try it!
