Hey guys! If you're like me, you probably love your 2017 Honda CRV Touring. It's a fantastic vehicle, offering a smooth ride, plenty of space, and a host of features that make driving a pleasure. But to keep it running in tip-top shape, you need to stay on top of maintenance, and that includes using the right oil. Choosing the correct oil type for your 2017 Honda CRV Touring is crucial for maintaining its performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Using the wrong oil can lead to a variety of problems, from reduced engine life to decreased fuel economy. So, let's dive into the world of motor oil and figure out what's best for your trusty CRV.

Understanding the Importance of Oil

Before we get into the specifics, let's talk about why oil is so important for your engine. Think of oil as the lifeblood of your vehicle. It performs several critical functions:

• Lubrication: Oil creates a thin film between moving parts in your engine, reducing friction and wear. Without proper lubrication, these parts would grind against each other, causing significant damage.
• Cooling: As oil circulates through the engine, it absorbs heat and helps to dissipate it, preventing the engine from overheating.
• Cleaning: Oil contains detergents and dispersants that help to keep the engine clean by suspending contaminants and preventing them from forming deposits.
• Sealing: Oil helps to seal the gaps between the piston rings and cylinder walls, ensuring proper compression and preventing combustion gases from leaking into the crankcase.
• Protection: Oil contains additives that protect engine parts from corrosion and oxidation.

Recommended Oil Type for the 2017 Honda CRV Touring

Okay, so what's the right oil for your 2017 Honda CRV Touring? Honda recommends using 0W-20 synthetic oil. This is explicitly stated in your owner's manual, so it's always a good idea to double-check there. But why 0W-20, and why synthetic?

• 0W-20: This refers to the oil's viscosity, or its resistance to flow. The "0W" indicates the oil's viscosity at low temperatures (the "W" stands for winter). A lower number means the oil flows more easily in cold weather, which is important for cold starts. The "20" indicates the oil's viscosity at high temperatures. A higher number means the oil maintains its viscosity better at high temperatures, providing better protection for your engine.
• Synthetic Oil: Synthetic oils are engineered to provide superior performance compared to conventional oils. They offer better resistance to high temperatures, better flow at low temperatures, and better protection against wear and tear. While synthetic oil might be a bit more expensive, the benefits it provides for your engine's longevity and performance are well worth the cost.

Why Synthetic Oil Matters

Using synthetic oil in your 2017 Honda CRV Touring isn't just a suggestion; it's highly recommended. Here's why:

• Enhanced Engine Protection: Synthetic oils are formulated to provide superior lubrication and protection against wear, especially in the high-stress environment of a modern engine.
• Improved Fuel Efficiency: The reduced friction offered by synthetic oils can contribute to slightly improved fuel economy.
• Better Cold-Weather Performance: Synthetic oils flow more easily at low temperatures, making cold starts easier and reducing wear during those critical initial moments.
• Extended Oil Change Intervals: While Honda still recommends following the maintenance minder system, synthetic oils generally last longer than conventional oils, potentially allowing for extended oil change intervals (always follow Honda's recommendations).

Understanding Oil Viscosity

Let's break down that 0W-20 rating a bit more. The "0W" part tells you how the oil behaves in cold temperatures. Oils with a lower "W" number flow more easily when it's cold, which is super important for getting your engine started quickly and protecting it from wear during those first few minutes. The "20" part tells you how the oil behaves at higher temperatures. A higher number means the oil stays thicker and maintains its protective qualities even when your engine is working hard.

Using the correct viscosity is crucial. Too thick, and the oil won't flow properly, especially in cold weather. Too thin, and it won't provide enough protection at high temperatures. Honda specifically engineered your CRV's engine to work optimally with 0W-20 oil, so sticking with that recommendation is your best bet.

Choosing a Brand

With the knowledge that 0W-20 synthetic oil is the way to go, you might be wondering which brand to choose. There are tons of options out there, and it can be overwhelming.

Generally, stick to reputable brands like:

• Mobil 1: Known for its excellent performance and protection.
• Castrol: Another top-tier brand with a long history of producing high-quality oils.
• Pennzoil: Offers a range of synthetic oils to meet different needs.
• Valvoline: A reliable brand that's been around for ages.
• Amsoil: A popular choice for those seeking maximum performance and protection.

Do your research and read reviews to see what other CRV owners are using and recommending. Consider factors like price, availability, and any specific needs you might have (e.g., if you do a lot of towing or heavy driving).

Important Note: Regardless of the brand you choose, make sure the oil meets or exceeds the specifications outlined in your owner's manual. Look for the API (American Petroleum Institute) starburst symbol on the bottle, which indicates that the oil meets certain performance standards.

Oil Change Intervals for Your 2017 CRV Touring

Honda uses a maintenance minder system to determine when your CRV needs an oil change. This system takes into account various factors, such as driving conditions and engine load, to calculate the optimal oil change interval.

Follow the Maintenance Minder: Pay attention to the maintenance minder system in your CRV. When the system indicates that it's time for an oil change, schedule one as soon as possible.

Typical Oil Change Intervals: While the maintenance minder is the best guide, typical oil change intervals for synthetic oil are between 7,500 and 10,000 miles. However, if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, towing, or other heavy-duty activities, you might need to change the oil more frequently.

Check Your Oil Regularly: It's always a good idea to check your oil level and condition regularly, even between oil changes. This can help you catch potential problems early on.

How to Check Your Oil Level

Checking your oil level is a simple task that can help you keep tabs on your engine's health. Here's how to do it:

1. Park on a Level Surface: Make sure your CRV is parked on a level surface to get an accurate reading.
2. Allow the Engine to Cool: Let the engine cool down for at least 10-15 minutes before checking the oil.
3. Locate the Dipstick: The oil dipstick is usually brightly colored and easy to find. Consult your owner's manual if you're not sure where it is.
4. Remove the Dipstick and Wipe it Clean: Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth.
5. Reinsert the Dipstick Fully: Push the dipstick back into its tube until it's fully seated.
6. Remove the Dipstick Again and Check the Level: Pull the dipstick out again and check the oil level. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.

Adding Oil: If the oil level is below the minimum mark, add oil until it reaches the proper level. Use the same type of oil that's already in the engine (0W-20 synthetic).

What Happens if You Use the Wrong Oil?

Using the wrong oil in your 2017 Honda CRV Touring can lead to several problems:

• Reduced Engine Life: Improper lubrication can cause excessive wear and tear on engine parts, shortening the engine's lifespan.
• Decreased Fuel Economy: Using the wrong viscosity oil can increase friction in the engine, reducing fuel efficiency.
• Engine Damage: In severe cases, using the wrong oil can lead to engine damage, such as piston damage or bearing failure.
• Voided Warranty: Using the wrong oil could potentially void your warranty if it causes engine damage.

Can I Use a Higher Viscosity Oil in the Summer?

You might be tempted to use a higher viscosity oil, like 5W-30, during the summer months, thinking it will provide better protection in the heat. However, Honda specifically recommends 0W-20 oil for your 2017 CRV Touring, regardless of the season. Sticking with the manufacturer's recommendation is always the safest bet.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right oil for your 2017 Honda CRV Touring is a simple but crucial step in maintaining its performance and longevity. By using 0W-20 synthetic oil and following the maintenance minder system, you can keep your CRV running smoothly for years to come. Remember to check your oil level regularly and address any issues promptly. Happy driving, and take care of your ride!