The 2023 Honda Passport is a capable mid-size SUV built on a rugged platform designed for both on-road comfort and off-road adventure. Under the hood lies the reliable 3.5-liter J35Y6 V6 engine, a powerplant known for its smooth power delivery and efficiency. However, keeping this sophisticated machine running at its peak requires a commitment to high-quality maintenance. Using the correct fluids ensures that every moving part operates with minimal friction, even under the stress of towing, hauling, or navigating extreme temperatures.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers the highest level of protection with 75% more resistance against horsepower loss and wear, ideal for the 3.5L V6 engine with a capacity of 5.7 quarts including filter.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides extended drain intervals up to 20,000 miles while maintaining superior cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother for longer.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A trusted, budget-friendly option that fights sludge and deposits with 100% synthetic formulation to match OEM requirements.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for engines with over 75,000 miles to reduce sludge by 67% and boost cleaning power.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter EA15K13 – Delivers 99% filtering efficiency at 20 microns with greater capacity to trap wear-causing contaminants, extending engine life.
- WIX Oil Filter 57356 – A premium alternative with improved media over standard OEM filters, ensuring reliable flow and filtration.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant ANTPC1G – A 50/50 pre-mixed formula protecting cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant ANT1G – A concentrated option that greatly surpasses corrosion standards, requiring mixing with distilled water for ultimate protection.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid ATL – Withstands heavy towing, high temperatures, and challenging terrain, ensuring smooth shifts in the 9-speed automatic transmission.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube SVG – Provides advanced protection for the transfer case and rear differential, resisting thermal runaway and rust.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid BFLV – Offers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer – Helps keep fuel fresh up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup for stored equipment.
- AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil – Highly-effective rust preventive designed to protect internal engine components during storage or long periods of inactivity.
- AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive API – Restores fuel injectors to 100% flow rate and improves fuel economy, helping to prevent pre-ignition knock.
- AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor UCL – Lubricates fuel system and upper cylinders, compatible with capless fuel systems.
- AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease GLC – Resists thermal and oxidation degradation for long-term performance with outstanding low-temperature pumpability.
- AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector AMHSC – Contains special rust and corrosion inhibitor additives and leaves a long-lasting protective, wax-like, amber coating.
- AMSOIL MP Metal Protector AMP – Cuts through rust and frees frozen components, helping protect against rust and corrosion even in salt water.
- AMSOIL Silicone Spray ALSS – Protects with a dry lubricating film ideal for surfaces that may be damaged by conventional lubricants such as grease or oil.
- AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Degreaser ADGSC – Dissolves oil, tar and grime, removes sticky residue and works fast with a low-VOC formula.
- AMSOIL Power Foam Carburetor and Induction System Cleaner APF – Cleans deposits from ethanol and degraded fuel, removes gum and varnish, and maximizes horsepower.
- AMSOIL Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax Spray AMWSC – Requires just two easy steps, leaves vehicles with a fantastic shine and tough protective finish.
- AMSOIL Brake and Parts Cleaner BPCSC – Quickly removes oil, grease, brake fluid and other contaminants from brake parts and other automotive components.
- AMSOIL Mudslinger Mud and Dirt Repellent AMSSC – Provides a protective, non-stick layer of armor against the accumulation of mud, dirt and snow.
- AMSOIL Engine Degreaser AEDSC – Professional-strength formula packed with powerful degreasing solvents that quickly and easily remove the toughest grease.
- AMSOIL Glass Cleaner AGCSC – Professional-strength formula effectively cuts through grease and grime, foaming action doesn’t run or drip.
- AMSOIL High-Foam Car Shampoo HFB – High-foam formula is hard on dirt, gentle on coatings and finishes, capable for bucket-wash or foam-cannon.
- AMSOIL Exterior Ceramic Spray CSF – Easy application, requires no cure time, sheds water rapidly, and protects against UV rays.
- AMSOIL Interior Detailer Light Lemon IDL – Multi-surface use with 90-day UV protection, traps & eliminates odors.
- AMSOIL Interior Detailer Scent Free IDN – Multi-surface use with 90-day UV protection, traps & eliminates odors.
Engine Oil and Filter Selection
The heart of the 2023 Honda Passport is the 3.5-liter 6-cylinder engine, designated as the J35Y6. This engine benefits significantly from a low-viscosity synthetic oil that can flow quickly during cold starts while maintaining a protective film at high operating temperatures. The recommended oil capacity for a complete oil change, including the filter replacement, is 5.7 quarts. Without a filter, the engine requires 5.4 quarts. Ensuring you have the correct volume and the proper viscosity grade is critical for longevity.
For those seeking the absolute best in engine protection, AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil is the premier choice. It offers industry-leading performance with 75% more resistance against horsepower loss and wear compared to standard conventional oils. This product is designed to handle the most demanding conditions, whether you are commuting in heavy traffic or towing a camper on a highway.
If your driving habits are less severe but you still desire extended drain intervals, the AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil is an excellent alternative. It allows for up to 20,000 miles or one year between changes, whichever comes first. This formulation provides 37% more cleaning power than the OE motor oil, helping to keep internal engine components running smoothly and reducing the buildup of harmful deposits over time.
For drivers looking for a cost-effective solution that still delivers synthetic performance, the AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil is a robust option. It is engineered to fight sludge and deposits, offering a reliable 12-month or 15,000-mile protection schedule. Additionally, for owners of higher-mileage vehicles exceeding 75,000 miles, the AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil features a unique chemistry with boosted detergents to clean the engine and anti-wear additives to protect older seals and gaskets.
Pairing the oil with a high-quality filter is essential. The AMSOIL Oil Filter EA15K13 is designed to work in harmony with AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil and other oils, providing 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns. It has a greater capacity for contaminants than many competing filters, which helps reduce engine wear and extends service life. For those who prefer a well-known aftermarket brand, the WIX Oil Filter 57356 is also recommended, offering premium media that improves upon original equipment filters.
Transmission and Differential Lubrication
The 2023 Honda Passport comes equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Whether you have the Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD) version, the transmission requires a fluid that can handle the rigors of modern driving. The FWD model holds approximately 7.1 quarts for a total fill, while the AWD model requires about 7.9 quarts. An initial fill typically uses around 3.5 quarts, though the total volume will vary depending on the service procedure.
To maintain peak shifting performance and protect the transmission from heat-related wear, the AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid ATL is highly recommended. It remains fluid even in sub-zero temperatures and is formulated to withstand the heat generated during heavy towing or driving in challenging terrain. This synthetic fluid helps maintain the precise hydraulic pressure required for smooth gear changes.
For the drivetrain components, such as the transfer case and rear differential, the vehicle calls for specific gear lubricants. The transfer case requires a relatively small amount of fluid, around 0.8 pints, and should be torqued correctly to prevent leaks. The rear differential holds approximately 3.8 pints. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube SVG is an ideal choice for these applications. It contains friction modifiers beneficial for limited-slip differentials and controls thermal runaway, keeping operating temperatures lower and extending the life of gears and bearings.
Engine Cooling, Brake Fluid, and Fuel Additives
Maintaining the correct cooling system performance is vital for the J35Y6 engine, which operates efficiently but requires precise temperature control. The cooling system capacity is approximately 7.8 quarts. Using a high-quality antifreeze prevents corrosion and overheating. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a 50/50 pre-mix solution that protects all metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles. For those who prefer a concentrated formula to minimize storage space or adjust mix ratios, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant ANT offers extended protection of up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
Brake fluid is often overlooked until a problem arises, but for a vehicle like the Passport, which may be used for off-road adventures or towing, a superior brake fluid is crucial. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid BFLV provides excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems. Its stable viscosity ensures consistent braking performance in both freezing cold and hot summer conditions.
To maximize the performance of your fuel system, especially on a direct injection engine, regular use of a high-quality additive is beneficial. The AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive API is designed to restore up to 14% horsepower and brings GDI fuel injectors back to 100% flow rate. This additive helps control pre-ignition knock and can reduce the need for higher-octane fuel, making it a cost-effective way to maintain engine efficiency. For seasonal storage, the AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer AST helps keep fuel fresh up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup.
About the Vehicle
The 2023 Honda Passport is a versatile mid-size crossover SUV that occupies a unique position in the Honda lineup. Positioned between the compact Honda CR-V and the larger Pilot, the Passport is built on the same platform as the Pilot but offers a more compact footprint with a sportier design. This SUV is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower, providing ample power for highway merging, hill climbing, and towing up to 5,000 pounds.
Known for its rugged capabilities, the Passport comes standard with Honda’s Real Time All-Wheel Drive system, which can send up to 50% of the power to the rear wheels when slip is detected. This makes it a competent companion for light off-roading or inclement weather. The interior is designed with a focus on family utility, featuring a spacious cabin, a large cargo area behind the rear seats, and modern technology integrations. The design exudes a sense of reliability and durability, traits that are hallmarks of the Honda brand. Owners appreciate the Passport for its smooth ride quality, quiet cabin at highway speeds, and the confidence it inspires when navigating rough terrain or long-distance road trips.
While it shares mechanical DNA with other Honda trucks and SUVs, the Passport distinguishes itself with a focus on outdoor-oriented features and a design that leans slightly more aggressive than the standard crossover. Its availability in various trim levels allows buyers to customize their experience, from the standard LX to the well-equipped Touring. Whether used as a daily driver or a weekend adventure vehicle, the Passport’s combination of comfort, power, and capability makes it a popular choice in the SUV market, requiring a maintenance regimen that supports its all-around performance.