What Kind of Oil Does a Hyundai Elantra Take?

Whether this is your first car or it’s simply been a while since you’ve taken your vehicle in for some maintenance, it’s imperative to know the important role oil plays in your engine’s health. After all, it is what keeps all the parts lubricated and running smoothly. Most vehicles need an oil change around every 7,500 – 10,000 miles, but that can vary depending on a number of factors. If you’re not sure about your vehicle’s exact intervals, be sure to consult your owner’s manual for the most accurate information.

So, now that it’s time for your next oil change, what kind of oil does a Hyundai Elantra take? With the help of our guide below, you can learn more about the Hyundai Elantra recommended oil type and the step-by-step process on how to change it if you’re looking to do it at home. Be sure to contact us with any questions and we’ll be happy to help.

Hyundai Elantra Recommended Oil

When it comes to the Hyundai Elantra oil type, there are two options for Bryan drivers: conventional and synthetic. Conventional oil is unrefined crude oil that’s used on most cars, and it will need to be changed every 3,000 – 5,000 miles, but it costs less than synthetic oil. 

Synthetic oil costs more upfront, but it is the preferred Hyundai Elantra oil type. Synthetic oil has been refined and has had additives added to help the oil last longer and work better in high-performance engines than conventional oil. Synthetic oil can between 7,500 and 10,000 miles before it needs to be changed. 

As for the Hyundai Elantra recommended oil type, you can choose either of these grades in conventional or synthetic oil:

• 5W-20
• 5W-30

Why these oils? The short answer is that the 5W-20 or 5W-30 oil is the density your Hyundai Elantra needs in the winter and summer for the oil to sit comfortably between the engine parts. Getting a 0W-15 or a 10W-40 oil would result in the oil being too thin to properly protect the engine parts or too thick to fit between them. 

How to Change Hyundai Elantra Oil

If you’re in a hurry, or if you just don’t want to get dirty, you can always schedule service at our Brenham service center and have your oil changed. You can even save some extra cash by taking advantage of our service specials. However, if you’re a DIY mechanic, follow the steps below to learn how to properly change the oil in your Hyundai Elantra. 

1. Buy either the 5W-20 or the 5W-30 in synthetic or conventional oil. 
2. Buy an oil filter. There are many types of oil filters that work with the Hyundai Elantra. We recommend asking an associate for help finding an OEM Hyundai Elantra oil filter. You can get the oil and the filter at any auto parts store in Navasota or from the Hyundai of Brenham parts department.
3. Raise your Elantra up with a carjack or steel ramps.
4. Secure your Elantra with jack stands or wheel blocks.
5. Crawl under the front of your car using a dolly or on your own.
6. Find the oil drain plug on the bottom of your oil pan underneath your engine. You can use your vehicle owner’s manual to find its exact location under your car. 
7. Place an oil basin or a large tub directly underneath the plug, unscrew the plug, and allow the old oil to drain out completely—this may take up to 15 minutes. When all the oil has drained, replace the plug. 
8. Locate your oil filter underneath your engine and move the oil basil or tub underneath it.
9. Remove the oil filter with an oil filter wrench. Expect a bit of extra oil to drain out when you remove the filter.
10. Get your new filter and rub a bit of the new car oil around the rubber seal—this is an essential step to ensure your filter is watertight and easy to remove in the future. 
11. Set the new filter in place, then tighten it first by hand and then with the oil filter wrench. 
12. With your old oil drained and a new filter in place, you can come out from under your Elantra.
13. Go to your engine and remove the cap to your oil well. Pour in the specified amount of new oil. This should be about 4.2 quarts for the Hyundai Elantra, but you can find the exact amount in your owner’s manual.
14. Replace the cap to your oil well.
15. Check the oil level by using the dipstick. If you’re still low, add another ounce and check the level again. Once you get a proper oil level reading, you’re good to go!

Bring Your Hyundai Elantra to Our Brenham Service Center 

Now that you know the Hyundai Elantra recommended oil type, you can change your oil yourself. If you don’t feel comfortable performing the steps at your College Station home, feel free to schedule a service appointment and our expert technicians will get you taken care of. We look forward to helping you!

These recommendations may become outdated over time or differ from recommendations for older vehicles. To ensure accuracy, always consult your owner’s manual or a certified OEM mechanic.