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How much oil does a 3.4 L V6 Toyota take?

The oil capacity for a typical 3.4-liter Toyota V6 is about 6 quarts (roughly 5.7 liters) with a filter change. Exact figures vary by model year and variant, so always check your owner's manual for the precise value.


What the 3.4 L V6 refers to


The 3.4 L V6 badge in Toyota’s lineup most commonly points to the 5VZ-FE engine, a 3.4-liter V6 used in several mid-1990s to early-2000s vehicles such as the 4Runner and Tacoma. Variations in capacity can occur between model years and regional specifications.


Typical capacity and how it can vary


Oil capacity figures can differ slightly depending on whether you replace the oil filter during the change. The consensus range for the 5VZ-FE is around 6.0–6.1 quarts (5.7–5.8 L) with a filter. Some official data lists 6.1 quarts (5.8 L). Without replacing the filter, you’ll usually need a little less oil.


Key capacity benchmarks by variation



  • With filter change: about 6.0–6.1 quarts (5.7–5.8 L)

  • Without filter change: roughly 5.6–5.7 quarts (5.3–5.4 L)

  • Model/year differences: certain markets or submodels may list slightly different values


Concluding: Plan for about six quarts and confirm the exact level with the dipstick after filling.


How to confirm your exact capacity for your vehicle


To ensure you use the correct oil volume for your specific year and configuration, follow these steps:



  1. Identify the exact engine code (for example, 5VZ-FE) and the model year from the vehicle’s VIN or the owner’s manual.

  2. Consult Toyota’s official service data, the owner's manual, or a dealership to confirm the precise oil capacity with and without the filter.

  3. During the oil change, drain completely, replace the filter, and add oil gradually to reach the recommended full level while monitoring the dipstick.

  4. Use the viscosity and oil type prescribed in the manual (synthetic vs conventional) for your climate and driving conditions.


Bottom line: The typical capacity is around six quarts for a 3.4 L V6 with a filter; always verify for your exact year and model.


Notes for DIY oil changes


Aside from the total oil amount, ensure you use the correct filter size, reinstall the drain plug with the proper torque, and dispose of used oil according to local regulations. The dipstick reading should be checked with the engine at operating temperature and after a brief cooldown period for an accurate full level.


Summary


The common 3.4 L Toyota V6 (notably the 5VZ-FE) typically requires about 6 quarts (≈5.7 liters) of engine oil for a full change with a new filter. Exact capacity can vary by year, model, and market, so always verify with your owner's manual or a Toyota service source and confirm the level with the dipstick after refilling.

What kind of oil does a 2001 Toyota Tacoma 3.4 take?


The 2001 Toyota Tacoma 3.4L engine requires 5W-30 engine oil for all temperatures, or 10W-30 if temperatures are consistently above -18∘Cnegative 18 raised to the composed with power cap C−18∘𝐶 (0∘F0 raised to the composed with power cap F0∘𝐹). The oil capacity is 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with a filter change. It's recommended to use a quality synthetic or synthetic blend oil with an API rating of SJ or higher. 

  • Recommended Viscosity: 5W-30 (for all temperatures) or 10W-30 (for temperatures consistently above -18∘Cnegative 18 raised to the composed with power cap C−18∘𝐶 or 0∘F0 raised to the composed with power cap F0∘𝐹) 
  • Oil Capacity: 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with an oil filter change 
  • Oil Rating: API SJ or higher 



Is the 3.4 L V6 a good engine?


The older Toyota 3.4L V6 (5VZ−FE5 cap V cap Z minus cap F cap E5𝑉𝑍−𝐹𝐸) is considered a very good and extremely reliable engine, known for lasting hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance. The newer, twin-turbo 3.4L V6 engine in recent Tundras is powerful but had significant issues like main bearing failures due to manufacturing debris, leading to a recall. While this has been addressed, the long-term reliability of the newer engine is still a concern for some. 
Older Toyota 3.4L V6 (5VZ−FE5 cap V cap Z minus cap F cap E5𝑉𝑍−𝐹𝐸) (approx. 1995-2004) 

  • Pros:
    • Exceptional reliability: Often cited as one of Toyota's most reliable engines, capable of reaching 300,000 to over 500,000 miles. 
    • "Non-interference" design: If the timing belt breaks, the engine is not damaged, unlike interference engines. 
    • Proven track record: Used in vehicles like the Tacoma, 4Runner, and T100 for many years. 
  • Cons:
    • Maintenance neglect: Many of these engines have issues due to a lack of proper maintenance, especially regarding the timing belt. 
    • Age: Being an older engine, many are well-worn or have neglected maintenance records. 

Newer Twin-Turbo 3.4L V6 (approx. 2022-present) 
  • Pros:
    • High power output: Generates significant horsepower and torque. 
    • Modern technology: Includes a complex design with modern features. 
  • Cons:
    • Manufacturing defects: Had initial issues with turbochargers and main bearing failures due to manufacturing debris, which led to a recall. 
    • Long-term concerns: Due to its complexity and newness, its long-term reliability is still a question for some reviewers. 
    • Complexity: Repair and maintenance can be more difficult and expensive, with some parts being harder to access. 



How much oil does a 3.4 L V6 Toyota engine take?


The oil capacity for a Toyota 3.4L engine is 5.5 quarts (approx. 5.2 liters) with a filter change for four-wheel drive models, and 5.7 quarts (approx. 5.4 liters) for two-wheel drive models. It's best to use the specific capacity for your model year and configuration and always check the dipstick after filling to ensure the correct level. 

Drivetrain Oil Capacity (with filter)
Four-wheel drive (4WD) 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters)
Two-wheel drive (2WD) 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters)
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Important notes:
  • These capacities are for an oil and filter change only. 
  • Always check the oil level using the dipstick after you've finished filling and run the engine briefly. 
  • Top off the oil as needed to reach the full mark, but do not overfill. 



How much oil does a 1998 Toyota Tacoma 3.4 take?


The oil capacity for a 1998 Toyota Tacoma with a 3.4L engine is 5.5 quarts (or 5.2 liters) when replacing the oil filter. It is recommended to use a 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity oil. After refilling, you should always check the level with the dipstick and add more oil if necessary to ensure it is between the minimum and maximum marks. 

  • Capacity: 5.5 quarts (with filter) 
  • Viscosity: 5W-30 (for all temperatures) or 10W-30 (for temperatures above -18°C or 32∘32 raised to the composed with power32∘F) 
  • Important: After adding the new oil, start the engine and let it run for a minute or two. Then, turn it off, wait a few minutes, and check the dipstick to confirm the correct level. Add more oil as needed. 


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.