Before I bought the 2003 CL-S, I had a 2002 RSX-S. The dealer said to change the oil and filter every 5,000 miles, the manual said, an incredible 10,000 miles. I believe in frequent oil changes, but as of late, Acura is extremely hesitant to change the initial oil provided early.

The RSX was traded at 18,600 miles, but had the oil changed at 10,000 miles (among others). I observed the oil change at 15,000 miles, and was amazed to see that the oil had darkened a shade or two, but was still transparent. It looked exactly like pancake or waffle syrup. Am I missing something here? Is there new filtration technology available? What has happened to the jet black crap that was totally opaque?

Finally, here (Chicago), I was not too thrilled by an oil and filter change that cost above $37. What do you guys pay? I will continue to go to the dealer, though. I am not about to trust a car of this price to the kids at K mart or oil pros.

 

i dont care what kind of car you drive CHANGE THE OIL EVERY 3k MILES OR EVERY 3 MONTHS. UNLESS you are using synthetic then its 5-6k or every 6 months...

sidemarker

 

Jiffy Lube has done ok by me in a bind, they are about $30 or so, unless you run synthetics (I use Red Line) Delaer her wants 21.95, but usually I just pull it onto some ramps, or jack it and do it myself. If I am in a bind, I go to Jiffy Lube, they stock Red Line, and the one I go to lets me watch, check the color of the oil, make sure they do it right (I would kill the moron if he pulled the threads in my oil pan)

 

<<<Great Advice...!!!!

 

Others think you should follow the manual. YMMV

 

I would suggest that you do a search of these forums and come up with your own conclusions. You'll find answers on all sides of the spectrum concerning drain interval and type of oil to use. My conclusion, for the 'average' driver (no racing; just city/hwy traffic): it doesn't matter -- so follow the manual.