Just got me a 2004 Honda Civic. I’ve been going through the manual and have a few questions...

The manual basically recommends using Honda products (fluid, oils...etc) for the radiator, motor, transmission, brakes, power steering...etc.

1. How important is it to use just Honda fluid products? Does it even matter?
I mean can't I just use 50/50 Preston for my antifreeze/coolant needs and castrol for my motor oil needs?

2. Speaking of motor oil Honda recommends using 5w-20. Will it be ok if I go with 10w-30? What oil is best for these cars in the summer/winter?

3. Also its pretty tough to check the coolant level, however it does look pretty low...will it be ok if i go with the preston 50/50?

I'm planning on getting an oil change and transmission drained...any advice out there before i take it to the lube shop? Any advice, recommendations would surely be appreciated...

oh and by the way the car has about 83k miles on it...

 

The power steering and automatic transmission must have Honda fluid. The others you can use generic. Don't let anyone do anything with your automatic transmission unless you're absolutely sure they're using only genuine Honda fluid. Civic automatics can be really fickle.