Originally Posted By: fourside
Originally Posted By: ltslimjim
Originally Posted By: fourside
Yes, both the JDM and USDM Fit share the same L15B engine. The JDM also gets some other engine options, all of which are approved for this oil.
Keep in mind that Honda has also alluded in the past to using ultra-low viscosity oils as FF in some USDM Hondas.
I hear the L15As are even easier on oil. I wonder if these older Fit's could run this oil as well?
Per
this link, it would look as if Honda Ultra Green (0W-16) is safe to use in at least the 2nd gen Fits
with 1.3L engines. I don't see any mention of the L15A. If you were to experiment, I definitely wouldn't start with the Ultra Next, given that it's designed for only some of the very newest engines (even though the L15A and B are very closely related).
I see. Considering the newer L15B engines are harder on oil arguably since the are designed for more performance than the L15A then I don't see why the 0w-8 Honda NEXT couldn't be used necessarily. I do agree with being conservative and trying the 0w-16 first. This is mainly my BIL's approach though. I don't think I'll go with anything thinner than 0w-20 in my car.
It makes you wonder what specifically is the inhibiting difference in design between the two; if there exists one that permits use in L15B but not in the L15A, or was it simply a choice to not care to include the L15A in their testing.
Say Honda NEXT 0w-8 was formulated/specified around their development of the L15B, but that doesn't necessarily mean the L15A can't also use it unless explicitly stated. I'd want to actually ask Honda Japan.
lol.
...but without knowing those differences it is a gamble. I think 0w-16 might be the most I'd try and I consider that brave. Not conservative according to the info, without further real knowledge about the differences in these engines.