🛠️ How Much Oil Does a Honda Rubicon Take? Complete Oil Change Guide

June 11, 2025

ByChris Nichols 0 Comments

🛠️ How Much Oil Does a Honda Rubicon Take? Complete Oil Change Guide

If you're the proud owner of a Honda Foreman Rubicon 500 or 520, taking care of your machine means staying on top of regular oil changes. Whether you're mudding, hauling, or trail riding, clean oil keeps your engine running strong and smooth. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how much oil a Honda Rubicon takes, the best oil and filter recommendations, and step-by-step instructions for a proper oil change.

🔍 Quick Answer: How Much Oil Does a Honda Rubicon Take?

• Oil Capacity (with filter change):
  3.3 US quarts (3.1 liters)

• Without filter change:
  3.0 US quarts (2.8 liters)

These numbers apply to most 2015+ Honda Foreman Rubicon models, including the 500cc and 520cc engines. If you’re unsure of your exact model, check your owner’s manual to confirm.

🛢️ What Type of Oil Does a Honda Rubicon Use?

✅ Recommended Oil:

• Honda GN4 10W-30 or 10W-40 (conventional)

• Pro Honda HP4S 10W-30 (full synthetic – better for extreme use)

Choose JASO MA-rated oil, which is designed for wet clutches and ATV engines. Avoid automotive oils—they can cause clutch slippage.

🧰 What’s the Best Oil Filter for a Honda Rubicon?

Recommended Oil Filters:

• OEM Part Number: 15412-HP7-A01 (Honda Genuine)

• Aftermarket options:

  • K&N KN-112

  • WIX 51358

  • HiFloFiltro HF112

If you want long-lasting performance and peace of mind, stick with OEM or high-quality aftermarket brands.

🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Change the Oil on a Honda Rubicon

🔧 What You’ll Need:

• 3.3 quarts of 10W-30 or 10W-40 oil

• New oil filter

• 17mm wrench or socket

• Oil filter wrench or strap

• Oil catch pan

• Funnel

• Shop towels

• Gloves (optional, but nice)

• 

✅ Step 1: Warm It Up

Start the engine and let it run for 3-5 minutes. This warms up the oil, making it flow better and helping old gunk drain out.

✅ Step 2: Remove the Skid Plate (if needed)

Depending on your model or skid plate setup, you may need to remove it to access the drain plug.

✅ Step 3: Drain the Oil

• Locate the 17mm drain bolt under the engine.

• Place your oil catch pan underneath.

• Carefully loosen and remove the bolt.

• Let the oil drain completely (a few minutes).

• Replace the crush washer if damaged, then re-install the drain bolt and torque it to spec (around 24 lb-ft).

✅ Step 4: Replace the Oil Filter

• Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter.

• Check the rubber O-ring to make sure it comes off with the filter.

• Lightly oil the gasket of your new filter.

• Install it hand-tight—no tools needed unless otherwise specified.

✅ Step 5: Add New Oil

• Insert a funnel into the oil fill cap (right side of the engine).

• Add up to 3.3 quarts of oil.

• Check the dipstick after adding ~3 quarts, then top off as needed.

• Reinstall the dipstick.

✅ Step 6: Run and Recheck

• Start the engine and let it idle for 30 seconds.

• Turn off and wait a minute.

• Recheck oil level and add if needed.

🔁 How Often Should You Change the Oil?

• Normal use: Every 600 miles or 100 hours

• Heavy use (mud, water, hauling): Every 300 miles or 50 hours

• Always change the filter with the oil.

🧼 Bonus Tip: Dispose of Old Oil Properly

Don’t pour old oil down the drain! Use a local auto parts store, recycling center, or mechanic shop that offers used oil disposal.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your Honda Rubicon's oil fresh is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to extend its life. Whether you're getting it ready for hunting season, mud riding, or just another weekend on the trails, this 30-minute job keeps your engine healthy and ready to rip.

Chris Nichols