Lubricants and Fluids

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Acura MDX, 2012 Acura MDX, 2011 Acura MDX, and 2010 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Application	Lubricant or Fluid
Engine	Acura Motor Oil: 5W-20 Look for the API certification seal on the oil container. Make sure it says "For Gasoline Engines." SAE viscosity: See chart.
Automatic transmission	Acura Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF DW-1): Always use Acura ATF DW-1. Using a non-Acura ATF can affect shift quality.
Transfer assembly	Hypoid gear oil GL4 or GL5 Use an SAE 90 viscosity hypoid gear oil, API classified GL4 or GL5 only. Viscosity SAE 90: above 0°F (-18°C)
Rear differential	Always use Acura All-Wheel Drive Fluid (DPSF)
Brake system (including VSA lines)	Acura DOT 3 Brake Fluid: Always use Acura DOT 3 Brake Fluid. Using a non-Acura brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system.
Power steering system	Acura Power Steering Fluid: Always use Acura Power Steering Fluid. Using any other type of power steering fluid or automatic transmission fluid can cause increased wear and poor steering in cold weather.
Cooling system	Always use Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2.

Fig 1: Identifying API Certification Seal

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Fig 2: Recommended Engine Oil Viscosity Chart

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

For the details of the lubrication points and the type of lubricants to be applied, refer to the illustrated index and the various work procedures (such as Assembly/Reassembly, Replacement, Overhaul, Installation, etc.) contained in each section.

Application		Lubricant or Fluid
A	Brake booster clevis pin	Multipurpose grease
B	Battery terminals
C	Fuel fill door (lock rod sliding area)
D	Hood hinges and hood latch
E	Tailgate hinges
F	Caliper piston boots, caliper piston seals (front), caliper pins, and caliper pin boots	Honda silicone grease: P/N 08C30-B0234M
G	Caliper piston seals (rear)	Acura DOT 3 Brake Fluid
H	Parking brake shoe linkage	Plastilube #2 grease
I	Parking brake connecting rod	Rubber grease
J	Air conditioning compressor	Compressor oil: DENSO ND-OIL 8 (P/N 38897-PR7-A01 AH) for refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a)

NOTE:

Lubricate the following areas using the recommended lubricants and fluids.
In corrosive areas, more frequent lubrication is necessary.

Fig 3: Locating Lubrication Points
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.