ACURA MDX . ORG
www.acuramdx.org ACURA MDX . ORG Archive > Model Specific Discussions > 2007 and newer MDX
 
Have YOU changed your oil YET ?????? - Click HERE for Original Thread
Advertisement
Fabvsix
For those who change their oil and have not done so yet with your new 07 MDX beware as SuperTech was right on when he questioned those Acura Design engineers ! I would recommend the following:
Place a large piece of foil over the electronic part that resides DIRECTLY underneath the oil filter! Have gloves on and plenty of paper towels. Oil drain plug is also right over the "Y" exhust pipe and subframe, just lovely ! What were these guys smoking ?????? You will need to make several wipes of oils everywhere other than the drain pan.......Those that have these fly by night shops change their oil, don't be alarmed if you have a lovely smell of burned oil when they do a half ass job (not wiping up the oils that splashes everywhere). Also none of the tools I use on the RDX or my RL work with the MDX. You can barely get a wrench around the oil filter.
NO thanks Acura !

:1:

Thanks to SuperTech for making us aware of this nightmare......
sharkfans
quote:
Originally posted by Fabvsix
I would recommend the following:
Place a large piece of foil over the electronic part that resides DIRECTLY underneath the oil filter! Have gloves on and plenty of paper towels.



Thanks for the good maintenance tip. Now I've got something to look forward to... uh... yeah :(
Fabvsix
Sharkfan:

Let me know your observations when completed.......:eek:
deanking
"utilize cutting edge design to strongly encourage the consumer to take the vehicle to a dealership for even the most mundane maintenance".

Another clue will be how hard it is to change the air filter...
Advertisement
Fabvsix
DeanKing:

I never said anything was "hard" about it, just a sloppy mess in the process !~
sharkfans
quote:
Originally posted by Fabvsix
Let me know your observations when completed.


Will do...
SuperTech
The oil doesn't splash up on the exhaust if you drain it when it's cooled down. But then it takes forever.

Putting some kind of "ramp" to direct oil away from the subframe and stroke sensor is what we do when loosening oil filters.
shootist
quote:
Originally posted by deanking
"utilize cutting edge design to strongly encourage the consumer to take the vehicle to a dealership for even the most mundane maintenance".

Another clue will be how hard it is to change the air filter...


At least the interior cabin filter pulls out on a tray for replacement.
Advertisement
Fabvsix
I think he/she was referring to the engine air filter, not the AC filters. Besides who would need to change those so early in production??????:1:
Fabvsix
SuperTech:
I follow the manual which states: Before changing your oil, warm the engine to "normal operating" temp. I would never change my oil with "cold" oil......I just placed a large piece of foil over the stroke sensor and that worked just fine.....I've been changing my oil in my own cars and my parents since I was 16. I'm now 46 and I thank you for the heads up with this MDX ! !!! I hope your mechanics that are "under the gun" make sure not to leave oil in all the little spots it settled on mine. I am meticulas and pro-active and still had a difficult time not making a mess !!!! :1: :1: My RL I can do blind folded. The RDX has the filter nested behind the engine. Just gives me the creeps laying underneath that vehicle to reach the oil filter. My 05 MDX was by far the easiest !
alsea
I change the oil on my aircraft and had a similar problem. Solved it by using a 2 foot "ramp" made from a piece of pvc roof gutter. Several colors available, for those so inclined, and total cost < $3.
dacbiet
Not sure what all the fuss is about; changing oil on a '07 MDX is about as easy as it gets...

Just past the drain plug is some sort of metal plate that diverts draining oil down to your oil collection pan.

The oil filter is easy to get to. I just put a rag underneath it and slowly removed the filter. A minimal amount of oil spilled on to the rag.

Another plus with this car is that it's high enough off the ground that it doesn't need to be raised by a jack to get underneath it.

At 3k miles, it was time to migrate to Mobil 1.
Advertisement
stbentoak
My dealer told me DO NOT change the the 1st fill oil till 5000 mliles min... They said it has special one time additives from the factory and that they must stay in untill at least 5K. Has anyone else been told that?
dj-mdx2
quote:
Originally posted by stbentoak
My dealer told me DO NOT change the the 1st fill oil till 5000 mliles min... They said it has special one time additives from the factory and that they must stay in untill at least 5K. Has anyone else been told that?


The old MDX supposedly had molybdenum additives; not sure about the 07 but I was told by the service advisor the same thing. i did change oil right after 5K since I was going on a long road trip and didn't want to go to a different dealer.
Fabvsix
I did mine at 4300 and switched to Mobil One Syn with M1-110 filter.....
smm3
I bought my 07 MDX from a private seller with 6400 miles. The previous owner had the oil changed at the dealer with 3500 miles on it.

So.....does this mean the dealer messed up by not leaving the oil at least 5000 miles for the first oil change?

:confused:
Advertisement
Fabvsix
smm:
I wouldn't lose any sleep over it....
fosters.2
My husband says the MDX is one of the easiest vehicles to change the oil in. Something about how where the oil drains being in an easy to get to spot or something. Oh and he is about to change it for the third time.:p
Fabvsix
I didn't mean it say it was "hard" as it is easy, just can be messy compared to other vehicles I own.....
SuperTech
Compares to some other Hondas in recent years, the new MDX is not bad. The Prelude SH and 2.5TL/Vigor made huge messes compared to the MDX.

But still. The RDX requires practically no cleanup whatsoever. Why can't they all be that way?
Advertisement
Fabvsix
Supertech:
The RDX gives me the creeps because I have to slide directly under the motor to reach the oil filter.....as I age it just gives me the creeps laying under that vehicle....Should I service my floor jack as I've not touched (maintenance wise) it since I bought it years ago....
shootist
The secret to using a floor jack is to tell yourself it will positively fall on you the first time you trust it. Always use jackstands. It doesn't hurt to put a spare tire underneath the vehicle, too.
Fabvsix
I forgot I have jack stands too ! Thanks for reminding me......
SGM2008
quote:
Originally posted by dacbiet
Not sure what all the fuss is about; changing oil on a '07 MDX is about as easy as it gets...

Just past the drain plug is some sort of metal plate that diverts draining oil down to your oil collection pan.

The oil filter is easy to get to. I just put a rag underneath it and slowly removed the filter. A minimal amount of oil spilled on to the rag.

Another plus with this car is that it's high enough off the ground that it doesn't need to be raised by a jack to get underneath it.

At 3k miles, it was time to migrate to Mobil 1.



(Apologies if I'm bringing up an old thread.)

I just did the first oil change on an '08 MDXSport, and gosh, what a mess it made! Thought I share the warning.

First, the "some sort of metal plate" referenced in the post above. It sits about 3 inches from the outlet of the oil pan. I think it was supposed to "deflect" the oil down into the collection pan. Instead, it "spread" it all over the undercarriage, above the panels, creating a messy drip situation. This thing became like a shower when the oil hit it the moment I pulled out the plug. If I had to do it again, I would either remove that metal piece, or fashion some sort of cover to make sure the oil goes DOWN and not OUTWARDS!

Lessons learnt from this part, I moved on to the oil filter. It was pretty accessible but high up, and located above a suspension link with some electronics on it. I got paranoid. Taking off the front passenger wheel makes it MUCH easier to get to. I cut the top of a milk jug, then held it under (and around) the filter as I unscrewed it by hand. (Once you make the first quarter or half turn with a wrench.) Plop, drop the filter into jug, followed by a large gush of oil. I can only imagine if this were allowed to splash down, over the suspension link, electronics and into the oil pan. Another mess ...

Just thought I share this with other DIY'ers.

(By the way, anyone has a pic of the front undercarriage plastic covers? I would appreciate it. Especially near and around the oil pan. Is there a plastic piece covering it or is it exposed?)

Thanks!
Advertisement
Dishoom
quote:
Originally posted by Fabvsix
I did mine at 4300 and switched to Mobil One Syn with M1-110 filter.....


How did you find out that the Mobil 1 M1-110 is the filter to use? Mobile 1's website doesn't have this information, and I couldn't find a cross-reference for it at Pep Boys.
SGM2008
quote:
Originally posted by Dishoom


How did you find out that the Mobil 1 M1-110 is the filter to use? Mobile 1's website doesn't have this information, and I couldn't find a cross-reference for it at Pep Boys.



I found a Mobil 1 filter cross-reference guide at Kragens and used the same M1-110 filter. It only went up to 2007 but its the same.
Cariboo
I change the oil on all my vehicles and most maintenance and never use a jack to lift it up to make room... Just use the following ramps

Make your own ramps by getting an 8 ft 2x8, cut it into 2 foot sections, then just nail 2 of the boards together on top of each other, but a few inches from the edge to make a small ramp.

1. Raises vehicle ~4 inches to make getting underneath easier
2. Wide enought so tires easily fit
3. Much cheaper and more stable than the metal ones you buy at the store.
4. If you need more heigh, just add more wood :)
Fabvsix
I picked up the phone and called Mobil 1 and got that information. Doesn't surprise me that the've YET to update their web site. Seems common.....Just to update our companies web site is a chore......the common corporate answer: Yeah we're working on it.......:o :o :o
Advertisement
LionSpeed
My X is at 9,850 miles right now (after a 600 miles round trip). This weekend is rather cloudy & chill. Forecast daytime high is at 65-68. Perfect time to change Mobil-1 for the 2nd time on my X. I will try to change the oil every 5,000 miles increment.
Fabvsix
We almost have the same exact amout of mileage.......WOW I too have changed mine twice now and do so every 5-7 miles because of my driving conditions (granny style....NOT). Our weather is drop dead gorgeous today.....83 right now, Sunny and no winds! New Yawk steaks are resting.....ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Maverick2008
I'm about to take the Mobile 1 plunge. Every message board/site I've researched- praises this oil for whatever reason. I have an 2007 Acura MDX with 9,250 miles on it and my next oil change will be with Mobile 1.

I plan on going with Mobil 1 5W-20


QUESTION 1:
Is this the same 'version' of Mobile 1 that most of you (who use Mobil 1) use on your X? Or do you use/recommend using an alternate version described/listed below?

QUESTION 2:
If I go with Mobile 1 (and have the dealer change the oil) can I just stick with the standard oil filter that the dealer would normally use during a typical oil change, or would any of you recommend bringing in (in addition to the Mobile 1 oil I'll be supplying) a particular oil filter for the dealer to use during the Mobile 1 oil change?

Thanks in advance for your assistance!!

***********************************************************************************************
The Mobile 1 WEBSITE has several different oil types for 'Mobile 1' listed,,,

FROM the MOBILE 1 WEBSITE:
http://www.mobiloil.com/usa-english...bleResults.aspx

Current Vehicle:
Year: 2007
Make: Acura
Model: MDX
Engine Type: 6cyl. 3.7Liter VTEC Naturally Aspirated


Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-20
Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-20 fully synthetic motor oil is designed for today's longer service intervals. It provides guaranteed performance and protection for 15,000 miles or one year. Mobil 1 Extended Performance products with the Advanced SuperSyn System contain extra performance additives to help deliver outstanding engine protection.



Mobil 1 5W-20
A fully synthetic motor oil, Mobil 1 5W-20 with SuperSyn Technology exceeds the industry's toughest standards and outperforms all conventional oils. Mobil 1 is recommended by leading car manufacturers as initial fill.



Mobil 1 0W-20 Advanced Fuel Economy
For improved fuel economy, consider using Mobil 1 0W-20 Advanced Fuel Economy which is engineered to deliver outstanding engine protection and to offer improved fuel economy in vehicles where SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20 oil is recommended.




Mobil Clean 7500 5W-20
Mobil Clean 7500 5W-20 is a synthetic blend motor oil designed to exceed engine warranty requirements. It delivers guaranteed performance and protection for up to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Mobil Clean 7500 has 18 percent more cleaning agents than Mobil Clean 5000 to keep your engine cleaner longer.



Mobil Clean 5000 5W-20
Mobil Clean 5000 5W-20 is a conventional motor oil that delivers proven protection of critical engine parts from lubricant-related failure for 5,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first. It is designed to exceed most engine warranty requirements.
Special Filter Not Required



****************************************
RECOMMENDED FILTER for ACURA MDX (2007):
Current Vehicle:
Year: 2007
Make: Acura
Model: MDX
Engine Type: 6cyl. 3.7Liter VTEC Naturally Aspirated

Filter matches for the vehicle you selected:
Champion Model PH2867
Fram Model PH7317
*****************************************
Fabvsix
I've converted to "fully syn" Mobil 1 whether it calls for 5w30 or 5w20. One is thinner to yield one mile per gallon but a bit harder (less protection) on your engine....that's all thats about.....5w30 is fine also.....better long term protection.
If you switch to Syn, then you can go longer 5-7K miles before changing. I ONLY use Mobil 1 Oil filters too ! Why buy a diamond and put it FAKE gold?
Advertisement
dacbiet
5W30 flows better in cold climates, but in my climate (SoCal) I don't need cold weather viscosity so I always use 10W30. Also, 10W30 has a narrower range of viscosities than 5W30, therefore 10W30 has fewer viscosity modifiers and more base stock synthetic oil. There are instances where oils with large amounts of viscosity modifiers have broken down due to excessive heat, leaving carbon deposits on valves, but this would probably be rare with a high quality synthetic oil.

Ford and Honda and a few others like to use thin oil to help boost their CAFE numbers. I'd rather stick with a better protecting oil for my climate zone.
SGM2008
I use the regular Mobil 1 5W-20 for both Acuras I have and change the oil every 5-8k miles.

The other Mobil1 5W-20s (extended life or whatever) are not that much more expensive but I cannot imagine going 15k miles between changes!

By the way, anyone can help by taking a picture of the bottom plastic panels of their MDX please? Near the oil pan / drain bolt area.

Thanks.
sterling08
quote:
Originally posted by SGM2008
The other Mobil1 5W-20s ... are not that much more expensive but I cannot imagine going 15k miles between changes!


yeah, it blew my mind as well. My other car is a Porsche and they only call for an oil change/service every 15,000 miles. Of course, that service costs you a not so nice $700 per ... :(
kingmdx
All fluids converted to AMSOIL !!!....you all think 15k miles is crazy ...how about 35k :) or 1 year :29: ....a friend of mine actually did the 35k miles in a year since he drives A LOT with this product and it held up perfectly... he did oil testing etc on it and it showed the oil actually had more life left it in after the 35k.

Amazing oil and products.... tested and proven better than Mobil1 btw. :29:
Advertisement
cybulman
I already changed over to Mobil 1 Syntec at 3500 miles and the dealer charged $60, which is not too bad for First Service.

All fluids and tire pressures were checked and a free hand-job wash in and out.

Cy;)
sterling08
quote:
Originally posted by cybulman
...charged $60, which is not too bad for First Service ...
and a free hand-job ...



Nice to see that your first dealership service experience had a happy ending ! :D
PrestigeAuto
WOw I guess I got it made my dealer charges 29.99 free car wash checks all fluids tire pressure.

Plus no appoitment needed they did however spill oil all over my sub frame that dripped for a day or so.
midnightMDX
quote:
Originally posted by kingmdx
All fluids converted to AMSOIL !!!....you all think 15k miles is crazy ...how about 35k :) or 1 year :29: ....a friend of mine actually did the 35k miles in a year since he drives A LOT with this product and it held up perfectly... he did oil testing etc on it and it showed the oil actually had more life left it in after the 35k.

Amazing oil and products.... tested and proven better than Mobil1 btw. :29:


Yea, I've also heard good things about AMSOIL.

Heres a good place to get oil analysis done. You send it by mail.
http://www.blackstone-labs.com/what...l_analysis.html
Advertisement
JP422
I'm another Amsoil lover!

Anyway, I did my first oil change on our '08 MDX at 2500 miles. Normally I would have changed it at 1000, but I let this one go a bit longer. Anyway, oil change was a piece of cake.

You can probably do the change without lifting the X, but I have Rhino Ramps in my garage already, and with AWD, it's super fast and easy to get the front wheels up on them.

The oil pan, drain deflector worked perfect for me, and was draining right into the pan perfectly. the oil filter was easy to access (from under) and I just put about 3-4 sheets of the blue shop towels right under to catch the drips. No prob.

Oil change on the X is WAAAY easier to do than many other cars.
It might be messy, but face it, it's an oil change. Put on your gloves, and bring your paper towels.

I used Mobile1 5w-30 (cheaper by the case at Costco) for now with an oem Honda filter ( I get them at cost).

As for those of you who are going to complain about the oem filter being made by filtech... show us an oem "filtech" filter that failed. I believe Honda may have saved costs by having the filters made in the US... but I still believe they still hold some quality requirements as well. :p
LionSpeed
Just changed 2nd oil change to the X with Mobil-1 (5w30). Start to finish around 20 mins. Zero drop of oil on the X. Aluminum foil required. So much for "Acura Advance" oil-change method.
Fabvsix
Perhaps Henry could help you next time to hold that alumininininumimmmm:4:
LionSpeed
How To Dance In The Rain

It was a busy morning, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's, arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.

I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound.

On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound.

While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry. The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife.

I inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now.

I was surprised, and asked him, "And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?"

He smiled as he patted my hand and said, "She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is."

I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and thought, "That is the kind of love I want in my life."

True love is neither physical, nor romantic. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.

With all the jokes and fun that is in e-mails, sometimes there is one that comes along that has an important message. This one I thought I could share with you.

The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.

I hope you share this with someone you care about. I just did.

"Life isn't about how to survive the storm,

but how to dance in the rain."

ISH
Advertisement
Fabvsix
If thats all there is? If thats all there is???? Let's break out the booze and have ball.................. if that's all there is.............

Great song by Peggy Lee.......
kingmdx
Is LionSpeed high ..:1: ?



Split personality ....sappy stories ....ammmm ...stop staring into the LEDs LS you're starting to worry me :p !!
Fabvsix
Rough and tuff huh???? Na just a big pussy cat......must be the heat getting to him DOWN THERE or that voice keeps reciting "why didn't I get the freaking Sport model".....what was I thinking?????? yah see We're right back where we started! I thought you were suppose to be the BIG cat in the house?
LOL ahhahahhahahahhahahah:D :D :D ;) ;)
chiefg
What were they smoking when they designed an oil drain plug that goes back and pours oil all over everything? If clearance was a problem, they could have recessed the drain plug but kept it pointing down.

As far as the oil filter goes, this is my 5th honda vehicle. They always place the oil filter in a crappy position so oil pours all over everything. When I changed the oil, I had oil go all over everything and then drip out of several places and make a bunch stains in my drive way.

You would think Honda would complete the package of a great car with an easy way to change the oil. It was actually less of a mess to change the differencial oil.
Advertisement
JP422
I'm not totally sure if this is true or not, but I heard that Honda techs use a special oil diverter... like a plate with a magnet or something rather... that you stick on under the oil filter, that makes it real quick and clean to drain the oil and remove filter.

I heard about this plate for the Honda Accords... but perhaps there might be one for the MDX?

For myself, I just place about 3-4 sheets of blue shop towels, and
remove the filter as quickly as possible. This pretty much works for me... and it's not too messy. Aluminum foil seems to be another good way to divert the oil... I'm gonna try this next time.

;)
Fabvsix
Just another way to make it miserable for consumers to change their own oil. Diverter tool paaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaleeeze! Just use Aluminum and skip the messy blue costco papertowels......:o
JP422
An oil change is an oil change... just get your dirty shirt on, your blue Harbor Freight gloves on, slide the cardboard box (from the new Plasma TV you just bought) under the X ... and do it. and btw, blue shop towels are awsome (thank you Costco) :D
A roll is always next to me when I'm changing oil...

I haven't tried diverting the oil with foil yet, but what I like about towels is that it soaks it up... where as the foil might just let it drip(?)

Anyway, do wutever toots your horn~ overal, oil change on the X isnt that bad.
Fabvsix
I'd say its a breeze too as I've been doing it since I was 16 I'm 47 now. However for those nubee's they are in for a rude awakening on thier first run....
I have a mechanics roll bed as opposed to a left over box described! LOL
Advertisement
JP422
Nice.... I haven't been changing oil as long as you Fab (I only have 16 yrs working on cars), but I do maintence on all our vehicles (including cars/suvs/boats/jetskis/scooter/etc)... that's 12 engines i currently maintain throughout the yr.... so that's a lot of fluids...

Since my driveway is sloped, I stopped using the creeper... but that's ok... just means I have to get some more flatscreens :2:

heh heh... ;)
Fabvsix
Wow that's alot......so if I count all the engines here I maintain:
2007 RDX
2007 MDX
2004 RL
1999 lawn mower (forget the brand name)
1999 gas blower (forget the brand name)
1999 gas weed eater (forget the brand name)
1999 gas weed eater/trimmer by John Deere
2006 Honda gas tiller (mini Pro)

And let's not forget the pools 7 filters and maintenance!

That's enough for me ! :1: :eek: :1: :eek: :1: :cool:
eujinc
quote:
Originally posted by Fabvsix
I'd say its a breeze too as I've been doing it since I was 16 I'm 47 now. However for those nubee's they are in for a rude awakening on thier first run....
I have a mechanics roll bed as opposed to a left over box described! LOL



Fab, what is up with the plastic wrap on the creeper? Reminds me of some relatives of mine who wrapped their furniture including the tv remote in plastic. 30 yrs later those things look remarkably new. :D
JP422
Oh damn... let's not get into the pool and spa filters... LOL
Advertisement
Fabvsix
quote:
Originally posted by eujinc


Fab, what is up with the plastic wrap on the creeper? Reminds me of some relatives of mine who wrapped their furniture including the tv remote in plastic. 30 yrs later those things look remarkably new. :D




LOL No I'm not like that will all my other gadgets and toys. I've just never pulled that plastic wrap off..........I must admit I've yet to take the blue plastic off the door jams on the MDX. I just had it when disrespectful people "drag" their shoes across the nice shinny door jams and scratch them......At least I don't have moth ball smell everywhere!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LMAO........:2: :2:

My spotless touring 03! I really liked those rim style.......
gmc74
quote:
Originally posted by Fabvsix
Wow that's alot......so if I count all the engines here I maintain:
2007 RDX
2007 MDX
2004 RL
1999 lawn mower (forget the brand name)
1999 gas blower (forget the brand name)
1999 gas weed eater (forget the brand name)
1999 gas weed eater/trimmer by John Deere
2006 Honda gas tiller (mini Pro)

And let's not forget the pools 7 filters and maintenance!

That's enough for me ! :1: :eek: :1: :eek: :1: :cool:



I did my pool maintenance a few weeks ago, what a PITA... ok, really pretty easy, but I like to complain about it.

Went swimming for the first time this season on 5/8, the pool was only 80, the minimum I will go in. Now it is up to 83, and climbing :)
Fabvsix
go to goole
put in "in floor cleaning system"
A&A is the companies system we have........works like a charm. Program it to run to your desire, enjoy a clean pool without the hassles of "back wash, hoses, gasket replacements, that nasty lube, vacum and costly repairs or quickly outdated parts and just write a check to your local NRG company so it can keep your pool sparkling clean and allow you to enjoy your weekend swimming or floating and NOT CLEANING POOLS AND TIRED FILTERS !
SGM2008
quote:
Originally posted by JP422
I'm not totally sure if this is true or not, but I heard that Honda techs use a special oil diverter... like a plate with a magnet or something rather... that you stick on under the oil filter, that makes it real quick and clean to drain the oil and remove filter.

I heard about this plate for the Honda Accords... but perhaps there might be one for the MDX?

For myself, I just place about 3-4 sheets of blue shop towels, and
remove the filter as quickly as possible. This pretty much works for me... and it's not too messy. Aluminum foil seems to be another good way to divert the oil... I'm gonna try this next time.

;)



The filter is a PITA. I use a milk jug. Cut the top off, hold it under the filter, turn the filter, drop it off into the jug when it comes off. Hold it there to catch all the runoff. Presto!
Advertisement
Fabvsix
At least Boo and Dix are witness' to the oil change....

They also love the pool.......

Yah

Give me CHELADA !
phins2rt
quote:
Originally posted by SGM2008


The filter is a PITA. I use a milk jug. Cut the top off, hold it under the filter, turn the filter, drop it off into the jug when it comes off. Hold it there to catch all the runoff. Presto!



One thing I use is an old bread bag. Put your hand inside the bag and start unscrewing the filter. Pull the ends of the bag up over the filter as it comes off and you should have much less mess.
LionSpeed
quote:
Originally posted by SGM2008


The filter is a PITA. I use a milk jug. Cut the top off, hold it under the filter, turn the filter, drop it off into the jug when it comes off. Hold it there to catch all the runoff. Presto!



Sounds like a great idea. Gonna try this next time. :29:
Fabvsix
me 2's......
Oil changing weather this weekend. Nice and cool with overcast....

ahhhhhhhhh
Advertisement
rayman1943
i found that diverter plate to be a messy pita. the second time i changed the oil i took out the bolt, removed it and "forgot" to put it back on. draining the oil is a breeeze now and having come from a 98 integra w/the filter tucked under the back of the engine and minimal clearance between engine and firewall this x filter is a pleasant experience. BTW. have you ever drained your oil only to find you can't get the filter off? :-))) i always make sure i can turn my filter just a bit b4 i drain the oil.

Mobil 1 5w 20
honda filter.
phins2rt
Thanks for the tips everyone. I changed the oil last week for the first time in the 08 and it wasn't any easier/harder than the 03. It may have even been less messier. Actually it was easier because of the fact the drain plug wasn't tightened to 100 lbs like the other factory bolts tend to be.:D
KrisS
Woa, people, stop the insanity! There is no need for mess, oil filter wrench, jack, creeper, etc.

Try this:

A. Ensure the oil is warm for an effective drain.

B. Turn the steering wheel to the right for filter/drain access.

C. Leave the fill cap and dip stick IN. This helps slow the oil flow and reduces the mess. "Make" a small oil diverter using whatever, even cardboard. I use some corrugated plastic from a shipping box. Curve it to divert the drain oil into the pan and begin to drain.

D. Use a center punch or scratch awl and a small hammer to punch a small hole in the bottom of the filter. Allow it to drain. This pretty much eliminates the oil filter mess.

E. You should be able to remove the oil filter by hand.

F. Fill the new oil filter almost full with new oil! Repeated pours may be needed as the oil slowly penetrates the media and fills the other side. (Use your engine running with no oil pressure to fill the filter - are you NUTS!)

G. Lubricate the o-ring seal with a little oil and install the new filter, 1/3 turn past seating the o-ring. It does not need to be real tight. (no need for "tighten it 'til it squeaks, then one more turn")

H. After it has thoroughly drained, install the drain plug using a new gasket.

I. Fill with quality synthetic oil. Run the engine briefly to fill the passages, then recheck the level.

J. Reset the oil life monitor.

K. Realize that you just did a ~20-minute oil change, and likely with better workmanship than many dealer techs.

(going off memory - sorry if I missed anything)
midnightMDX
Punching a filter? Sounds messy to me. When do you remove the drain bolt? :p
Advertisement
rayman1943
i like a lot about your procedure kris. but want to ask: do you reach in behind the right wheel from a sitting position to do this? i think using the awl to drain the filter would be a lot cleaner than loosening it and letting the oil run out all over it. and i see where you pull the drain plug also. as in my earlier post, i would make sure i can turn my filter, before punching the hole. swap D. and E. i agree that filling your new filter first is probably the optimum procedure. going with that thinking, when is our oil "thoroughly" drained ? i have waited for my oil to start to drip, pulled my jack over set it up and raised the car on one side and started the oil to start to pour out again in a small stream i assume off of horizontal and slightly angled surfaces. as for me, now, i feel that i am doing a better job than the dealer. and due to my recent screw up i would say only reset your oil life monitor if it is at 10 to 15 percent in order to get your maintenance minder messages. just record your oil change in the maintenace journal.
i am going to try to do this from behind the wheel next change. sounds great. and thanks for the ideas.
ray.
JP422
sounds like the 'old school' way... back when motor oil came in cans... haha... but hey, it works. I remember seeing small shop mechs doing this when the car was on the lift (I dunno why). They would take an awl, or even a pointy philips scredriver and hit it w/ a hammer to punch a hole. This would start the oil drain process, and some guys later unscrew the filter by sticking the screwdriver back into the hole, and using it for leverage to loosen the filter...

Of course I haven't seen this done for over 20 yrs... now nobody touches my cars' oils besides me.... and I do it right.. (I hope) :D
RSM
quote:
Originally posted by JP422
Nice.... I haven't been changing oil as long as you Fab (I only have 16 yrs working on cars), but I do maintence on all our vehicles (including cars/suvs/boats/jetskis/scooter/etc)... that's 12 engines i currently maintain throughout the yr.... so that's a lot of fluids...

Since my driveway is sloped, I stopped using the creeper... but that's ok... just means I have to get some more flatscreens :2:

heh heh... ;)



After doing the oil change, do you check the oil level? Just want to know since you mentioned that your driveway is sloped which is the same as mine.
JP422
Yeap... I initially fill to the somewhere "between the marks" on the dipstick... then do a test drive arounf the block. After that, I park it on the level street just to check the oil level, and if its ok, then it goes back up the driveway. Funny thing though... when you fill between the marks on a sloped driveway (mine has angle, but it's not very steep), it still stays between the marks on level ground.... so it's not really a big deal, or problem.

Take care~
Advertisement
skinny
Does the meter that give s you the % of oil life left automatically reset when you change the oil?
JP422
No... it doesn't reset automatically. I don't know exactly what the procedure is, but I just played w/ the reset button on the steering wheel. I think I went to the oil life indication and held reset down for a few seconds... I don't recall exactly what else I did, but after that, the oil life was reset.

Does anyone know exactly how to reset it?
skinny
quote:
Originally posted by JP422
No... it doesn't reset automatically. I don't know exactly what the procedure is, but I just played w/ the reset button on the steering wheel. I think I went to the oil life indication and held reset down for a few seconds... I don't recall exactly what else I did, but after that, the oil life was reset.

Does anyone know exactly how to reset it?



Thank you! I will take a look around there and see how it goes. I didnt want to change the oil just yet before i find out how i can reset it.
rayman1943
skinney: if you are going to change your oil DO NOT reset your oil life until it has given you your "maintenance minder codes" these codes will not display until the oil life has gone down to 10-15 % are in your OWNERS MANUAL and are significant as they... may... include changing of transmission and differential fluids. previous threads in this forum will give you more information on this subject.
isn't the x a great ride?
happy motoring. ray.

:cool:
Advertisement
skinny
quote:
Originally posted by rayman1943
skinney: if you are going to change your oil DO NOT reset your oil life until it has given you your "maintenance minder codes" these codes will not display until the oil life has gone down to 10-15 % are in your OWNERS MANUAL and are significant as they... may... include changing of transmission and differential fluids. previous threads in this forum will give you more information on this subject.
isn't the x a great ride?
happy motoring. ray.

:cool:

Thanks Ray! Won't attempt to reset it manual just yet, not until i figure out how. I have a D or B16 code and the oils it down ti 15% now. So far the X is an awesome ride and although it is not the sport model its great taking the family around the city. I just cant wait unitl the winter comes around to take it up the mountains.
JP422
A lot of the current Honda/Acuras have the maintenance minder oil% display now... Personally I believe that is purely for engine oil changes (hence the title "oil life xx%") I thought it's supposed to tell you the oil life in respect to how you drive, etc. (so the mileage may be variable), where as tranny oil's, diff oils, you just change at the set recommended mileage intervals.

I changed my X's oil at 2500 miles (60% oil life - fist oil change) , and I don't think it's going to screw up calculations. Normally, I'd change the break in oil at 1000 miles, but I let this one go a bit longer.

Sooo... does anyone know the EXACT procedure to reset the oil life?
sbilla
i just got a quote from local acura dealer for b16 service, it was 414.50, i think they are trying to rip my money, i will probably goto local oil change service (tirebarn) doit, it might cost me like 100$, any advices?
midnightMDX
Yup rip off.

http://acuramdx.org/forums/showthre...&threadid=29320

Powered by: Search Engine Indexer and vBulletin v2.2.9
Copyright © 2000 - 2002, Jelsoft Enterprises Limited
Copyright 2000 Acuramdx.org. All Rights Reserved.