Quick answer: the 2014–2020 Acura MDX 3.5L V6 takes 5.7 qt (5.4 L) of SAE 0W-20 with a filter change (5.4 qt without the filter).
| Engine | Oil capacity (change including filter) | Oil type |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5L V6 (J35) | 5.7 qt (5.4 L) | 0W-20 |
A 5-quart jug is not enough. Buy six quarts.
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | Oil capacity | Oil type |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 5.7 qt (5.4 L) | 0W-20 |
| 2016 | 5.7 qt (5.4 L) | 0W-20 |
| 2019 | 5.7 qt (5.4 L) | 0W-20 |
| 2020 | 5.7 qt (5.4 L) | 0W-20 |
We read the engine oil specifications of every manual listed under Sources. Without a filter change, capacities are about 0.3 qt lower.
Recommended oil type
Acura recommends Genuine Acura Motor Oil 0W-20 or an API Premium-grade SAE 0W-20 detergent oil.
How to reset the oil life on the 2014–2020 Acura MDX
See also: Oil life reset by brand.
Acura uses the Maintenance Minder. After the oil change, reset the engine oil life to 100%: on most models, open the maintenance information in the instrument display (or in the touchscreen Settings › Vehicle › Maintenance), select the engine oil item and confirm Reset. The exact button sequence for your year is in the owner’s manual linked below.
Oil change tips
- A 5-quart jug plus one quart.
- The capacity is approximate. After refilling, run the engine for a minute, turn it off, wait a few minutes and check that the level is between the marks on the dipstick before adding more.
Sources and how we checked
All capacities and oil grades on this page come from Acura’s owner’s manuals, published on American Honda’s official technical information site (section “Specifications”: engine oil):
- 2014 Acura MDX owner’s manual
- 2016 Acura MDX owner’s manual
- 2019 Acura MDX owner’s manual
- 2020 Acura MDX owner’s manual
If your owner’s manual shows something different, follow your manual and tell us.
Last checked: October 27, 2026.
FAQ
How much oil does a 2014–2020 Acura MDX take?
5.7 qt (5.4 L) with a filter change.
What oil does an Acura MDX use?
SAE 0W-20.
Is a 5-quart jug enough?
No, buy six quarts.
How much without changing the filter?
5.4 qt (5.1 L).
How do I reset the oil life?
Reset the engine oil item in the Maintenance Minder.
Newer MDX? See the 2022–2025 Acura MDX.