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How much oil does a 4Runner V6 take?

The typical full oil change for a 4Runner’s 4.0-liter V6 uses about 6 quarts of engine oil, roughly 5.7 liters. In practice, you should plan for a range around 5.5–6.0 quarts depending on year and whether the oil filter is replaced.


The exact capacity can vary by generation and model year because the 4Runner has used the 1GR-FE 4.0L V6 across multiple revisions. Always confirm the precise figure in your owner’s manual or a Toyota service bulletin for your specific year and configuration.


Oil capacity overview for the 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE)


Here are the typical capacity figures cited by service literature and owner communities for performing a standard oil change on most 4Runner 4.0L V6 engines.



  • Approximately 6.0 quarts (about 5.7 liters) of engine oil when performing a full change with a new filter.


In short, plan on about 6 quarts as a baseline, while allowing a margin for slight year-to-year variation and filter size. Always verify with the manual for your exact year and trim.


Oil grade and change procedure


Oil grade recommendations can vary by climate and model year; many owners use synthetic 5W-30, while some markets or models call for 0W-20. Use the oil grade specified in your owner's manual and consider climate when choosing viscosity.


To guide you through the process, use the following steps:


Quick oil-change checklist



  • Prepare supplies: the correct oil type and volume (around 6 quarts for a full change with a new filter), a new oil filter, a drain pan, and basic hand tools.

  • Warm up the engine briefly, then park on level ground and engage the parking brake.

  • Drain the old oil, remove the oil filter, and let everything drain completely.

  • Install a new filter, reinstall the drain plug, and begin adding oil slowly (start with about 5–5.5 quarts, then check level).

  • Fill to the proper dipstick mark, run the engine to operating temperature, recheck for leaks, and top up as needed to reach the full mark.


After completing the change, dispose of the used oil and filter properly and reset any maintenance indicators as required.


Summary


For a typical 4Runner with the 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE), expect to use about 6 quarts of engine oil for a full change with a new filter, with a practical range of roughly 5.5–6.0 quarts depending on year and filter. Always verify the exact specification in your owner’s manual and follow the recommended oil grade for your climate and model year. Properly checking the oil level after a change ensures the engine is protected and ready for the road.

How many quarts of oil does a V6 4Runner take?


A V6 Toyota 4Runner typically takes 6.6 quarts of oil, though this can vary slightly by year and engine. Older models may have a different capacity, such as the 1990-1995 3.0L V6 which can take about 5 quarts. It is always best to confirm the exact amount in your owner's manual or by checking your car's information screen. 

  • Most modern V6 4Runners: 6.6 quarts of oil (with filter). 
  • Older models: Check your owner's manual, as the capacity may be different (e.g., the 3.0L V6 from 1990-1995 takes about 5 quarts). 
  • To be certain: Always refer to your specific owner's manual for the exact capacity. 



How much oil does a 4.0 L V6 take?


The oil capacity for a 4.0L V6 engine varies by model, but common capacities are around 5 to 6 quarts for a Nissan or Ford, while a Toyota 4.0L V6 typically requires about 6.6 quarts. Always check the vehicle's owner's manual for the exact specification and use the dipstick to confirm the correct level after changing the oil. 
Specific capacities by vehicle manufacturer

  • Toyota: Approximately 6.6 quarts for recent models with a filter change, though older models like the 2005 Tacoma may require 5.5 quarts. 
  • Nissan: Around 5.4 to 6 quarts for models like the Frontier, Xterra, and Pathfinder, often specified as 5 3/8 quarts with a new filter. 
  • Ford: A Ford Ranger with the 4.0L V6 may require 5 quarts, while other 4.0L V6 engines could take around 4.7 liters. 

Important considerations
  • Check the dipstick: The most reliable method is to add the recommended amount, run the engine for a short time to circulate the new oil, then check the dipstick and add more if needed. 
  • Consult the owner's manual: The owner's manual for your specific vehicle is the definitive source for oil type, viscosity, and capacity. 



How much oil does a 3.0 4Runner take?


6.6 quarts
Toyota 4Runner Oil Capacity
You'll need to purchase enough oil to fully replace the oil in your 4Runner's engine. The Toyota 4Runner oil capacity is 6.6 quarts for the 3.0L engine size.



How much oil does a Toyota 4.0 V6 take?


The oil capacity for a Toyota 4.0L V6 engine is generally 5.5 quarts when changing the filter, although this can vary by specific model and drivetrain. For example, some Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Base models may require 4.8 quarts, and the 4-Runner models (2024 and newer) typically need 6.6 quarts. Always check your owner's manual and fill to the correct level on the dipstick.
 
Oil capacity by model

  • Most 4.0L V6s (including 4WD Tacoma, and most models from 2005-2015): 5.5 quarts with a filter change 
  • 4-Runner (2024 and newer): 6.6 quarts 
  • RWD Base Tacoma (2009, 2015): 4.8 quarts with a filter change 

Important considerations
  • Always check the dipstick: After refilling, run the engine briefly, then check the oil level with the dipstick to ensure it is at the correct full mark. 
  • Check your owner's manual: The exact capacity can vary slightly depending on your specific vehicle model, year, and drivetrain (4WD vs. RWD). 
  • Be prepared: It's a good idea to have slightly more than the estimated amount on hand, just in case more is needed after the initial fill. 
  • Use the correct viscosity: The recommended oil viscosity is typically 5W-30 for most 4.0L V6 engines, but some newer models may specify 0W-20. Always verify the correct type for your vehicle. 


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.