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How much oil does a 2.4 L Toyota Highlander take?

Approximately 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) of engine oil are typically required for a full oil change on a 2.4 L Toyota Highlander, including a new filter. Exact capacity can vary by model year and trim, so consult your owner's manual or the oil cap on the engine to confirm.


The Highlander’s 2.4 L turbocharged inline-four has specific lubrication needs, and oil quantity is calibrated to the engine’s oil pan size and filtration system. Below is a practical guide to the official figures and how to manage oil in this vehicle family.


Official oil capacity


Here are the commonly cited capacities for the 2.4 L Highlander engine when performing a full oil change with a new filter. The figures are approximate and can vary by year and configuration.



  • With oil filter: 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters)

  • Without oil filter: 4.6 quarts (4.4 liters)


In practice, most owners will plan for about 4.8 quarts when performing a full change with a new filter, then verify the level with the dipstick and adjust if needed. Always confirm the exact figure for your model year in the official documentation.


Tips for checking and topping up oil


Follow these step-by-step instructions to check and top up oil safely and accurately.



  1. Park on level ground and let the engine cool for several minutes after shutdown to allow oil to drain back into the pan.

  2. Wipe the dipstick, reinsert it fully, then pull it out to read the level. The oil should lie between the MIN and MAX marks.

  3. If the level is low, add small increments (about a quarter of a quart or 0.25 liter) and recheck after each addition.

  4. Use the recommended viscosity, typically 0W-20 for many Highlanders, but verify for your exact model.

  5. Reinstall the cap securely, start the engine, run for a minute, then recheck the level and look for leaks.


Regular monitoring of oil level helps prevent low-oil conditions and ensures proper lubrication. The listed capacities are guidelines; exact values can vary with year, engine variant, and installed equipment.


Where to confirm exact capacity


For the most precise specification, consult the owner’s manual, the service booklet, or the information code on the oil fill cap. A Toyota dealer or certified shop can also verify the capacity for your exact vehicle configuration.


Summary


The 2.4 L Toyota Highlander typically requires about 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) of engine oil for a full change with a new filter, with minor variations by year and trim. Always verify the exact figure for your specific vehicle and use the dipstick to confirm the final level after filling.

How much oil does a 24 Highlander 2.4 take?


5.6 quarts
Capacity: 5.6 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.



How many quarts of oil does a 4 cylinder Toyota Highlander take?


5 quarts
For instance, a 4-cylinder engine will require at least 5 quarts of oil and a 6-cylinder engine will need around 6 quarts of motor oil.



Can I use 5W30 instead of 0w20 Toyota?


Yes, you can use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20, especially in warmer climates or if you tow heavy loads, though it may slightly decrease fuel economy. The main difference is viscosity: 5W-30 is thicker when cold and at operating temperature, which can offer better protection in hot weather, but 0W-20 is specifically recommended by Toyota to maximize fuel efficiency and performance for most conditions. It is best to check your owner's manual, as it may list 5W-30 as an acceptable alternative for certain driving conditions. 
When to consider using 5W-30

  • Hot climates: A slightly thicker oil can provide better protection at high temperatures. 
  • Heavy towing or hard driving: A thicker oil film can be beneficial under high-load conditions. 
  • Higher mileage vehicles: Some sources suggest that 5W-30 can be better for engines with over 75,000 miles. 

Potential downsides of using 5W-30
  • Reduced fuel economy: The primary reason for the 0W-20 recommendation is to meet fuel efficiency standards, and using a thicker oil may lead to a slight decrease in gas mileage. 
  • Slower cold starts: The "0W" rating in 0W-20 means it flows faster in very cold temperatures, offering quicker lubrication during cold starts compared to 5W-30. 

What to do
  • Check your owner's manual: The manual is the definitive source and may list acceptable alternative viscosities for your specific vehicle and driving conditions. 
  • Consider your climate: If you live in a place with very hot summers or if you frequently tow, 5W-30 is a viable option. 
  • For a 2019 Toyota Camry, some sources recommend 0W-16 as the correct oil, not 0W-20, for the 4-cylinder engine. If you have a 4-cylinder engine, consult your owner's manual to confirm the correct oil weight, which may be 0W-16 or 0W-20. 
  • If you have a car with over 75,000 miles, consider switching to 5W-30. 
  • If you choose to switch, be sure to use a high-quality synthetic oil with the correct API and ILSAC GF-6 certifications. 



How much oil does a 2.4 L 4 cylinder Toyota take?


And on the frame this Toyota Tacoma with the 2.4 L inline 4 requires six quarts of 5W30 weight oil at least here in sunny California toyota does recommend a 10W30 weight if you're in extremely cold


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.