What brand of oil is used by Toyota?
Toyota uses Toyota Genuine Motor Oil (TGMO) as its official oil brand. The most common grade for modern Toyota engines is 0W-20 full synthetic, but the exact viscosity depends on the model, engine, and climate. Always check your owner’s manual for the correct specification.
Understanding Toyota’s official oil brand
Toyota’s own branded lubricant is Toyota Genuine Motor Oil (TGMO). This oil is formulated to meet Toyota engine specifications and is widely available through Toyota dealers and authorized retailers. TGMO is offered in multiple viscosities and formulations (full synthetic and synthetic blends) to suit different engines and markets.
Common oil viscosities used in Toyota engines
Before listing typical options, note that the exact viscosity you should use is specified in your vehicle’s documentation or on the under-hood label. The following are commonly recommended grades across many modern Toyotas:
- 0W-20 synthetic: The prevailing standard for most contemporary Toyota engines in many markets, designed for efficient cold-start performance and fuel economy.
- 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend: Used by some older models or certain engines, especially in regions with hotter climates or where a different specification is advised by the manufacturer.
- 0W-16 (synthetic): Selected for some newer hybrids and specific engines in certain markets, reflecting Toyota’s push for improved efficiency on select models.
These options illustrate the range of viscosities Toyota may require. Always verify the exact grade and specification for your specific vehicle from the owner’s manual or the oil fill cap label.
How to determine the right oil for your Toyota
To ensure you’re using the correct oil for your model, follow these steps:
- Check the owner’s manual for the recommended oil grade and viscosity for your engine and region.
- Look at the information on the engine oil cap or under-hood oil label for the advised specification.
- Consult the maintenance schedule in the manual or on the Toyota Owners site/app for any model-specific notes.
- When in doubt, ask a Toyota dealer or a certified technician to confirm the correct TGMO grade for your vehicle.
Using oil that meets the specified grade and API/ILSAC standards helps maintain engine performance, fuel efficiency, and warranty coverage.
Brand, warranty, and practical considerations
Toyota recommends using Toyota Genuine Motor Oil to align with the company’s engineering standards. However, most engines will run properly on high-quality oils from other reputable brands as long as they meet the exact viscosity and specification listed in the owner’s manual. If you choose an aftermarket oil, ensure it is compatible with the engine and sustained by proper documentation to avoid warranty complications. Always prioritize oils that match the OEM specification rather than focusing solely on brand name.
Summary
In short, Toyota’s official oil brand is Toyota Genuine Motor Oil (TGMO). The most common lubrication choice for modern Toyotas is 0W-20 full synthetic, though exact viscosity can vary by model, engine, and climate. Always refer to your owner’s manual or the under-hood label to confirm the correct oil grade, and consult a Toyota dealer if you’re unsure.
