2012 Acura TL Oil Type & Capacity
The 2012 Acura TL oil type depends on the engine: the Base takes 0W-20 (4.5 quarts with filter); the SH-AWD, Automatic Trans takes 5W-20 (4.5 quarts with filter); the SH-AWD, Standard Trans takes 5W-20 (4.5 quarts with filter), per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
It depends on the engine:
- Base: 0W-20, 4.5 quarts with filter
- SH-AWD, Automatic Trans: 5W-20, 4.5 quarts with filter
- SH-AWD, Standard Trans: 5W-20, 4.5 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base — Base | API - SAE 0W-20 | 4.50 QTS. | 4.20 QTS. | Excluding the oil remaining in the engine. You may use a synthetic motor oil if it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. |
| SH-AWD, Automatic Trans — SH-AWD | API - SAE 5W-20 | 4.50 QTS. | 4.20 QTS. | Excluding the oil remaining in the engine. You may use a synthetic motor oil if it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. |
| SH-AWD, Standard Trans — SH-AWD | API - SAE 5W-20 | 4.50 QTS. | 4.20 QTS. | Excluding the oil remaining in the engine. You may use a synthetic motor oil if it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. |
Buy the right oil
Buy 0W-20 motor oil on AmazonBuy 5W-20 motor oil on Amazon2012 Acura TL oil filter on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases made through these links.
More specs & repair guides for your TL
2012 Acura TL factory service manualAll fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner site AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
6.65 quarts (6.29 L) — HONDA Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Includes: the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine.
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2012 Acura TL take?
It depends on the engine: Base uses 0W-20; SH-AWD, Automatic Trans uses 5W-20; SH-AWD, Standard Trans uses 5W-20.
How much oil does a 2012 Acura TL take?
Capacity depends on the engine: Base holds 4.5 quarts with filter; SH-AWD, Automatic Trans holds 4.5 quarts with filter; SH-AWD, Standard Trans holds 4.5 quarts with filter.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 2012 Acura TL?
Yes. 0W-20 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2012 Acura TL. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.