Does Toyota Tacoma take regular or synthetic oil?
Most Toyota Tacomas are designed to run on synthetic oil rather than conventional petroleum-based oil. The exact grade depends on the engine and model year. In practice, the 3.5L V6 models typically require 0W-20 full synthetic, while the 2.7L inline-4 often uses 5W-30. Always consult your owner's manual for the exact specification for your vehicle.
Oil requirements by engine
3.5L V6 (common in recent Tacomas)
For the 3.5-liter V6 that powers most Tacomas built in the mid-2010s onward, the standard oil specification is 0W-20 full synthetic. This grade is chosen to optimize performance, fuel economy, and emissions control.
- 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil that meets API SP (or newer) and ILSAC GF-6 standards.
- In regions where 0W-20 full synthetic isn’t available, a high-quality 0W-20 synthetic blend that meets the spec may be acceptable per the owner’s manual.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended drain interval, which is typically longer with synthetic oil, but driving conditions can affect this interval.
Bottom line: For the 3.5L V6, use 0W-20 full synthetic oil as the standard specification, with synthetic blends as a fallback if your manual allows.
2.7L I-4 (older Tacomas and some trims)
The 2.7-liter inline-4 used in various Tacoma models usually calls for 5W-30. This oil grade supports the engine’s design and protects components under a range of operating conditions.
- 5W-30 motor oil (synthetic, synthetic blend, or conventional that meets spec and API rating).
- Prefer a synthetic or synthetic blend for better protection and longer drain intervals, depending on climate and usage.
- Ensure the oil meets the required API service category and other Toyota specifications listed in the manual.
Conclusion: The 2.7L inline-4 typically uses 5W-30; verify the exact spec and grade in your manual, especially if you live in extreme climates or tow frequently.
4.0L V6 (older Tacomas)
Earlier Tacomas with the 4.0-liter V6 generally specify 5W-30 as the standard oil grade. Synthetic options are commonly recommended to maximize protection and drain intervals in modern maintenance schedules.
- 5W-30 motor oil (full synthetic preferred, but synthetic blend or conventional meeting spec can be acceptable per manual).
- Choose oil that meets API requirements and Toyota/Maintenance specifications listed in your year’s manual.
- Consider synthetic oil for older engines to help with longevity and performance in varied climates.
Conclusion: For the 4.0L V6, 5W-30 is typical, with synthetic options commonly recommended; always confirm the exact spec in your manual for your year.
Summary
In short, the Toyota Tacoma’s oil needs are engine-specific. The most common setup today is 0W-20 full synthetic for the 3.5L V6, and 5W-30 for the 2.7L I-4 and 4.0L V6 in older models. Conventional oil is generally not the preferred choice for these engines, especially given long-drain intervals and modern emissions systems. Always verify the exact grade and type in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or through Toyota’s official specifications for your year and trim.
Does Toyota use synthetic or conventional oil?
Most Toyota vehicles use synthetic or conventional motor oil. To verify which type of motor oil your vehicle needs, please take a look at the Owner's Manual for your particular vehicle.
What kind of oil does a Toyota Tacoma take?
A Toyota Tacoma takes synthetic oil, typically a grade of SAE 0W-20 or SAE 5W-20. For modern Tacomas, 0W-20 is generally the recommended grade, though 5W-20 can be used for a single change in a pinch, provided you switch back to 0W-20 within 5,000 miles or six months.
Oil type and grade
- Type: Synthetic oil is recommended for optimal performance, longevity, and protection.
- Grade: The most common recommendation is SAE 0W-20. SAE 5W-20 is also an acceptable option.
Important considerations
- Check your owner's manual: Your owner's manual will have the most specific and accurate information for your model year and engine.
- Switching between grades: If you use 5W-20, it's a temporary solution and you should use 0W-20 at the next oil change.
- Driving conditions: If you frequently tow or go off-roading, you should change the oil more often (e.g., every 5,000 miles) than the standard recommendation.
Should I put synthetic or regular oil in my Tacoma?
Like many other Toyota vehicles such as the RAV4, the Tacoma runs best on synthetic oil with a grade of SAE 0W-20 or SW 5W-20. Learn more with our service center, or be sure to ask us if you have any questions or concerns about the Toyota Tacoma oil change!
What kind of oil does a Toyota 3.5 V6 take?
The recommended Toyota Tacoma 3.5L V6 oil change interval is every 10,000 miles or 12 months when SAE 0W-20 oil is used under normal driving conditions.
