2012 Honda Insight Oil Type & Capacity: 0W-20 (3.4 quarts)
The 2012 Honda Insight takes 0W-20 motor oil — 3.4 quarts with a filter change, per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
0W-20 — 3.4 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Genuine HONDA Motor Oil 0W-20 or API Premium-grade - SAE 0W-20 Detergent Oil | 3.40 QTS. | 3.20 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. Your vehicle does not require oil additives. In fact, they may adversely affect the engine performance and durability. You may use a synthetic motor oil if it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. Your vehicle does not require oil additives. In fact, they may adversely affect the engine performance and durability. |
| EX | Genuine HONDA Motor Oil 0W-20 or API Premium-grade - SAE 0W-20 Detergent Oil | 3.40 QTS. | 3.20 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. Your vehicle does not require oil additives. In fact, they may adversely affect the engine performance and durability. You may use a synthetic motor oil if it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. Your vehicle does not require oil additives. In fact, they may adversely affect the engine performance and durability. |
| LX | Genuine HONDA Motor Oil 0W-20 or API Premium-grade - SAE 0W-20 Detergent Oil | 3.40 QTS. | 3.20 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. Your vehicle does not require oil additives. In fact, they may adversely affect the engine performance and durability. You may use a synthetic motor oil if it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. Your vehicle does not require oil additives. In fact, they may adversely affect the engine performance and durability. |
More factory specs & repair guides for your Insight
🛞 2012 Honda Insight Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 2012 Honda Insight Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 2012 Honda Insight Light Bulb Sizes →📖 2012 Honda Insight Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
4.64 quarts (4.39 L) — HONDA Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50/50 antifreeze and water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water. Includes: the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine. If you regularly drive your vehicle under severe conditions in very low temperature (under 31Deg.F, 35Deg.C), a higher concentration of coolant should be used.
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2012 Honda Insight take?
The 2012 Honda Insight takes 0W-20 motor oil (Genuine HONDA Motor Oil 0W-20 or API Premium-grade - SAE 0W-20 Detergent Oil), per the factory service manual.
What is the oil capacity of a 2012 Honda Insight?
The 2012 Honda Insight oil capacity is 3.4 quarts with a filter change, or 3.2 quarts without changing the filter.
How often should I change the oil in my 2012 Honda Insight?
Most 2012 Honda Insight owners follow a 5,000–7,500 mile interval with conventional oil, or up to 10,000 miles with full synthetic. Always check the oil life monitor if equipped, and consult your owner's manual — Honda recommends intervals based on driving conditions, not just mileage.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 2012 Honda Insight?
Yes. 0W-20 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2012 Honda Insight. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.