wellinghurst

I know this is basic stuff, but I am still relatively new to the Honda thing. Apparently they use a washer on the drain pan bolt and I hear it is recommended to change it every time. Is this really necessary?

and for those who may know-how easy is the filter and plug to get to compared to a, say, 1997 Malibu. I can already tell the Accord is lower to the ground. Any basic oil change knowledge/tips would be greatly appreciated... for my 03 V6

Thanks!

pgpbubble

Yes, every oil change the crush washer (94109-14000 ) $.24 , oil filter(15400-plm-ao2), and oil are changed.
Then a 19 point inspection is usually done also. its not hard at all, everything is easily accessible.

Perfectionist

The crush washers are cheap enough, so replace it. Do not over-torque the drain bolt or you'll run the risk of stripping the threads. That said, I have to admit I have re-used the crush washer on my old '90 Civic Si at least 10 times without any problem.

As for access to the drain and filter, sometimes reaching in from above to get at the filter is easier than from below. Just be prepared for oil draing back from the filter as you unscrew it. A rag or nifty home made catcher from a cut up plastic jug will work. For the drain plug, it depends how long your arm is. It will help to raise the car just a few inches to make it easier to reach. This aids in draining the oil from the pan, too.

BLKFLSH

I have an 03 V6, and have changed the oil many times. You will have to jack the car up, to get the drain plug out ( I think it's a 17mm ). If you simply turn the wheel all the way right, you can easily get the filter from there. I jack the car up on the passenger side front, take the plug out, then lower the car so more oil will drain out. Then the filter is easy. Reach in from the front of the passenger side tire, and unscrew the filter. Wipe off all the oil that drips on the frame. Don't screw the filter on too tight, because that will only make it harder to remove. I have a small filter wrench, and it works great. Don't forget to raise the car again, to put the plug back in. 4 and a half quarts is what it will take.

Accord1234

I never change the crush washer, and I also never lower the car once the nut is off , even though it makes sense that more oil wil drain while level instead of jacked up.

BLKFLSH

If you don't tighten the drain bolt too much, it will not distort the washer enough to require a new one.

wellinghurst

Thank you everyone-the right side tire tip is great. On our old Malibu I struggled to get to the filter then one day I found a plastic part that popped on and off that made everything so much easier to get to. I'm not the most tech savvy guy, but I do like to do as much as I can.

thanks again everyone!