The 2016 Acura RDX equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine (engine code J35Z2 3) is a sophisticated crossover that demands precise lubrication to maintain its performance and longevity. This engine, known for its smooth power delivery and responsiveness, operates efficiently with a specific viscosity grade of synthetic motor oil. Using the correct fluids is essential not only for reducing internal friction but also for protecting critical components like the variable valve timing system, pistons, and bearings from wear and thermal breakdown. Whether you are commuting daily, navigating mountain roads, or dealing with extreme temperature fluctuations, the right lubricants ensure your Acura RDX continues to perform as intended. Below, we outline the recommended AMSOIL products that meet the rigorous standards required for this specific vehicle.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The ultimate choice for unsurpassed engine protection, this oil can last up to 25,000 miles or one year. It offers 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent option providing up to 20,000 miles of protection. It features 37% more cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother for longer intervals.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – This formula fights sludge and deposits while outperforming conventional oils and matching OEM mileage intervals. It provides trusted protection for up to 20,000 miles or one year.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specially formulated for vehicles exceeding 75,000 miles, this oil boosts detergency and reduces sludge to help engines last longer and perform better.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Engineered for extended service life with 99% filtering efficiency at 20 microns, this filter allows for lower restriction to keep engine parts properly lubricated.
- WIX Oil Filter – A high-performance alternative featuring premium media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer branded filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mix formulation providing protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, compatible with all cooling system metals and hoses.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that requires mixing with water, offering extended protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years and greatly surpassing standards for metallic corrosion.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while maintaining fluidity in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides robust protection against wear for automatic transmissions, ensuring smooth shifts and extended service intervals.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for the transfer case, this lubricant controls thermal runaway and contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ideal for Honda Heavy Duty specifications.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – Helps restore fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, improving fuel economy and reducing the need for higher-octane fuel.
When performing an oil change on your 2016 Acura RDX, the total capacity for the engine is 4.5 quarts when including the filter replacement. If you are only draining the oil without a filter change, the capacity drops to 4.2 quarts. Regardless of the oil choice, it is crucial to check the oil level after refilling to ensure the proper amount is in the sump. Always install a new washer on the drain bolt and torque the drain plug to 30 ft-lbs to prevent leaks. The vehicle also utilizes a 6-speed automatic transmission, and the fluid type varies slightly depending on whether the vehicle is All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Front-Wheel Drive (FWD). The AWD model requires a total fill of 8.5 quarts, while the FWD model requires 7.4 quarts. Using a fluid that meets the specific factory specifications is vital for the longevity of the transmission’s internal components.
Maintaining Cooling and Transfer Case Systems
Cooling system maintenance is equally critical for the 3.5-liter engine. The coolant capacity for the 2016 Acura RDX is 7.8 quarts. You can choose between a pre-mixed formulation that offers five years of protection or a concentrated formula that allows for flexible mixing ratios. Both options are designed to protect all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses from corrosion. The antifreeze formulation used should be ethylene glycol-based and free of silicates, borates, and phosphates to ensure compatibility with the vehicle’s specific cooling hardware.
For AWD models, the transfer case requires periodic service to maintain traction capabilities. The capacity for the transfer case lubricant is 0.9 pints. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 is recommended for this application, as it provides advanced protection against wear and helps reduce operating temperatures. The drain and fill plugs must be torqued to 32 ft-lbs to ensure a secure seal. This lubricant is designed to control thermal runaway and offers long life for oil, seals, and the equipment itself.
Brake Fluid and Additional Protection
Brake fluid performance is vital for safety and system responsiveness. The 2016 Acura RDX requires brake fluid that meets Honda Heavy Duty specifications. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is an excellent alternative to the original equipment fluid. It provides superior stability over a wide temperature range, which enhances ABS and traction-control responsiveness. Replacing this fluid helps maintain a firm pedal feel and ensures the braking system operates reliably under stress.
In addition to the core maintenance items, using fuel additives can further optimize engine performance. AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver is designed to restore fuel injectors and improve fuel economy. For vehicle owners who engage in seasonal storage, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against ethanol corrosion and varnish buildup. These supplementary products, when used correctly, extend the life of the vehicle and enhance its overall efficiency.
Vehicle Background
The 2016 Acura RDX represents the second generation of the popular compact luxury crossover SUV. Introduced in 2012, the RDX was re-engineered to offer a more engaging driving experience compared to its predecessor. The 2016 model year continued with the robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, known as the J35Z2, which produces approximately 279 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, providing a balance of power and smooth shifting suitable for both urban environments and open highways.
Designed by Honda for the global market, the RDX shares its platform heritage with the Honda Accord, emphasizing reliability and cost-effective engineering. The vehicle features a premium interior with high-quality materials and advanced technology, including the AcuraLink infotainment system. Owners appreciate the RDX for its spacious cargo area, comfortable seating for five, and a ride quality that blends the comfort of a sedan with the utility of an SUV. The available All-Wheel Drive system, featuring Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) in certain trims, further enhances its capability in adverse weather conditions, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers.