To keep the engine running at peak performance, regular maintenance is crucial, especially changing the engine oil. One of the most important details in this process is understanding the correct oil capacity.
This guide will walk you through the Honda GX160 engine oil capacity, recommended oil type, and maintenance tips.
Honda GX160 Engine Oil Capacity
The Honda GX160 engine has an oil capacity of 0.6 liters (600 milliliters), or approximately 0.63 US quarts, when the oil is completely drained. This includes a standard oil change without removing the oil filter (as this engine doesn’t have an external filter like larger engines).
Always ensure you’re checking the oil level with the engine on a level surface and by removing the oil filler cap/dipstick without screwing it in during measurement. Overfilling or underfilling can lead to performance issues or engine damage.
Recommended Engine Oil Type for Honda GX160
Honda recommends using SAE 10W-30 oil for general use in most climates. However, if you’re operating in very cold or very hot environments, you can select the oil viscosity accordingly:
Best Oil for Honda GX160
1. Honda 08207‑10W30 Genuine Engine Oil – 1 Quart
- Formulated by Honda for small engines, this oil meets OEM specs and is trusted for reliability.
- Highly rated and easy to pour carefully into small reservoirs like the GX160.
- A 1‑quart bottle lets you accurately pour just the needed 0.6 L (~0.63 US qt) without waste or overfill.
2. Honda SAE 10W‑30 Engine Oil (2‑Quart Kit with Fuel Treatment)
- This kit includes two quarts of 10W‑30 oil plus a small bottle of fuel treatment.
- Great value if you need more oil over time or plan multiple oil changes.
- Excess oil can be stored or used in other small engines.
3. Honda 08213‑10W30 Pre‑measured 12‑Oz Bottles
- Comes in convenient, pre-measured 12-oz bottles—ideal for very precise refills (GX160 needs ~20 oz).
- Helps avoid mess and overfilling with smaller quantities, perfect for minimal maintenance.
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How to Check and Add Oil
- Park on Level Ground: Place the machine on a flat surface and let the engine cool.
- Locate Oil Filler Cap: Unscrew the oil filler cap, which usually also serves as the dipstick.
- Check the Level: Wipe the dipstick, reinsert it without screwing, then remove it to check the oil level.
- Top-Up If Needed: Add oil slowly and carefully to avoid overfilling. Use a funnel for precision.
- Secure the Cap: Once filled correctly, tighten the cap securely.
Oil Change Schedule for Honda GX160
Regular oil changes are essential for keeping your GX160 engine in top shape. Honda provides the following oil change intervals:
- Initial Oil Change: After the first 20 hours of use.
- Subsequent Oil Changes: Every 100 hours of use or at least once per season (whichever comes first).
In harsh conditions (e.g., dusty environments or high temperatures), consider changing oil more frequently.
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How to Change Oil in Honda GX160
Here’s a simple step-by-step process:
- Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil. Warm oil drains faster and more thoroughly.
- Turn Off the Engine: Shut off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.
- Position Oil Drain Pan: Place it beneath the oil drain bolt or remove the filler plug (depending on your model).
- Drain the Oil: Unscrew the oil drain bolt and allow the oil to fully drain.
- Replace the Bolt: Tighten the drain bolt securely.
- Refill With New Oil: Add fresh oil (SAE 10W-30) until it reaches the top of the filler neck or appropriate dipstick level.
- Check the Level: Confirm the level is correct and reattach the oil filler cap.
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Common Signs You Need to Change the Oil
- Dark, dirty oil when checked on the dipstick
- The engine becomes noisier than usual.
- Poor performance or harder starts
- Unusual smoke from the exhaust
- More frequent overheating
Addressing these signs early can prevent costly engine repairs.
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Tips to Maximize Engine Life
- Use clean, high-quality oil only
- Stick to the maintenance schedule
- Store the machine in a dry place
- Drain oil if storing for long periods
- Keep the air filter clean (oil-type filter if applicable)
FAQs
How much oil goes in a Honda GX 160?
The Honda GX160 engine takes 0.6 liters (600 ml) or approximately 0.63 US quarts of engine oil when completely drained and refilled.
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How much oil does a 160cc Honda engine take?
Most 160cc Honda engines, including the GX160 and other small engines, require around 0.6 liters (600 ml) of engine oil for proper lubrication.
What oil for Honda GXV 160?
The Honda GXV160 engine uses SAE 10W-30 detergent oil for general temperature conditions. For colder or hotter climates, SAE 5W-30 or SAE 30 may be used, respectively.
How many liters engine oil does a Honda ADV 160 use?
The Honda ADV 160 scooter uses approximately 0.8 to 0.9 liters of engine oil during an oil change, depending on whether the oil filter is also replaced.
What kind of oil does a Honda GX 160 take?
The Honda GX160 engine requires SAE 10W-30 4-stroke detergent oil, classified under API SJ or later, for optimal engine performance and protection.
Final words
Knowing and maintaining the proper Honda GX160 engine oil capacity (0.6 liters) is a simple but critical part of engine care. Always use the correct oil type for your climate, monitor oil levels regularly, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
