Just completed simultaneous oil changes, did the old Accord and TSX together. Since this is the 2nd time I've done the TSX, I'm still perfecting the process.
The oil filter and drain plug are off center of the engine, more to the right side (liberals?). They are also way back under the car, inline with the front axle. The best way for a DIY oil change is to jack the front end up slightly for access.
Last time I jacked it up on the left or driver's side and there was no problem accessing the drain plug or filter. However, when I removed the filter, I got a "dripping" surprise and was covered in oil. I never had this happen on the Accords and still can't explain why it happened here except for the fact that oil may have accumulated on the right side due to the height difference from lifting on the opposite side?
Instead, this time I lifted it up from the right side and presto... no oil :surprised:
In fact, the filter was completely drained. :woot:
Not sure if this is necessarily a good thing as I now wonder if Honda has eliminated check valves to prevent oil drain back? (more cost savings?)
In either case, there was little to no mess involved.
Here are the tools you need:
- 10mm socket for the drain plug trap door release bolt
- 17mm socket for the drain plug itself
- Drain plug aluminum "crush" washer
- An end cap style filter wrench to remove the old filter seemed to work best here as the filter is surrounded and not easily accessible from the sides.
- A floor jack and 2-jack stands
- Wheel chocks (1 or more)
Even though Honda recommends 4.4 qts, I have been using 4.5 and there is no issue. That works out to 4 oil changes from 3 Mobil 1 Synthetic 6-packs.
