What kind of oil does a 2007 Toyota Scion take?

The typical answer is SAE 5W-30 engine oil (synthetic or synthetic blend) for most 2007 Scion models, but the exact grade and capacity can vary by model and climate. Always verify with the owner's manual or the under-hood label for your specific car.

Models and general oil guidance

In 2007, Scion offered several models that share core engineering, notably the xA and xB hatchbacks (both using roughly 1.5-liter engines) and the tC coupe (2.4-liter engine). Across these models, a 5W-30 grade is commonly recommended, with climate and driving conditions influencing the precise specification and oil capacity.

Model-specific notes for reference:



• Scion xA (1.5L 1NZ-FE): typically uses 5W-30 oil (synthetic or synthetic blend); oil capacity is around 3.7–4.0 quarts with filter.


• Scion xB (1.5L 1NZ-FE): typically uses 5W-30 oil (synthetic or synthetic blend); oil capacity similar to the xA.


• Scion tC (2.4L 2AZ-FE): typically uses 5W-30 oil (synthetic or synthetic blend); oil capacity about 4.5–5.0 quarts with filter.

Note: Exact oil capacity and the precise grade can vary by year and engine variant. Always check the owner’s manual or the oil filler cap/engine bay sticker for the correct specification.

Oil standards, types, and where to buy

To ensure proper protection and performance, use an oil that meets current industry standards and is compatible with Toyota’s guidelines for a 2007 Scion. The common recommendations are:

Key standards and grade options typically accepted:



• SAE 5W-30 in synthetic or synthetic-blend form, meeting ILSAC GF-5 or API SN (or newer) specifications.


• Viscosity and grade may vary if the manual specifies a different climate-based option; however, 5W-30 is the baseline for most 2007 Scion engines.


• Avoid using oils outside the recommended viscosity unless the manual or a service advisor specifically approves them.

Consult the owner’s manual or ask a Toyota dealer for the exact grade and capacity for your specific model and region, as these details can differ by engine and production batch.

If you don’t have the manual handy

There are quick ways to confirm the correct oil specification without the manual:

Practical checks you can perform:



• Look at the oil filler cap in the engine bay; it often states the SAE grade (for example, "SAE 5W-30").


• Inspect the dipstick area or service sticker in the engine bay for the suggested viscosity and capacity.


• Call a Toyota dealer or reference a reputable Scion/Toyota service database using your exact model and year.

If in doubt, err on the side of the manufacturer’s guidance and use a high-quality 5W-30 that meets ILSAC GF-5/API SN or newer standards. A technician can also verify the correct specification for your engine variant.

How to change the oil (quick overview)

For routine maintenance, follow these general steps to change the oil and filter. These steps assume you’re using the recommended 5W-30 oil and the appropriate filter for a 2007 Scion.

1. Warm up the engine, then park on a level surface and turn off the ignition.


2. Lift the front of the car safely and support it with jack stands if needed; place a drain pan underneath the oil drain plug.


3. Remove the drain plug and let the old oil drain completely; replace the drain plug gasket if required.


4. Remove the oil filter, take note of any oil spillage, and install a new filter with a light coating of fresh oil on the gasket.


5. Pour in the recommended amount of 5W-30 oil (starting with the lower end of the capacity range) and check the level with the dipstick; add more if necessary in small increments.


6. Run the engine briefly, check for leaks, then recheck the oil level and secure any opened components.

Always dispose of used oil and filters according to local regulations and recycle programs. If you’re not comfortable performing an oil change yourself, a qualified mechanic can handle it and confirm the correct grade and capacity for your specific 2007 Scion.

Summary

For most 2007 Scion models, SAE 5W-30 engine oil (synthetic or synthetic blend) is the standard recommendation, with variations depending on model and climate. The oil should meet ILSAC GF-5 and API SN (or newer) specifications. Always verify exact grade and capacity in the owner's manual or with a dealer, and ensure proper disposal and replacement intervals for optimal engine longevity.

What type of oil does a scion take?

The specific Scion oil type depends on the model year and engine, but most recent models use 0W-20 full synthetic oil for better fuel economy, while older models like the 2005-2010 tC may use 5W-30 oil. For your specific vehicle, check the owner's manual for the exact grade and capacity, and use a reputable oil like Mobil 1 or a brand that meets the manufacturer's specifications. 
By model year

• 2011-2016 Scion tC: Uses 0W-20 oil.
• 2005-2010 Scion tC: Typically uses 5W-30 oil.
• 2009 Scion xB: Recommends 0W-20 or 5W-20. 

Key recommendations

• Check your owner's manual: This is the most accurate source for your specific Scion model and engine. 
• Use 0W-20 if possible: For recent models, 0W-20 is recommended for optimal fuel economy and cold-weather performance. 
• Use 5W-20 or 5W-30 if needed: If 0W-20 isn't available, some models can use 5W-20 or 5W-30 as a substitute, but you should switch back to the recommended 0W-20 at the next oil change. 
• Use high-quality oil: Regardless of the viscosity grade, using high-quality oil helps prevent engine wear and ensures proper lubrication. 

What kind of oil does a 2007 Toyota use?

The oil type for a 2007 Toyota depends on the engine, but most models require either 5W-30 or 5W-20. For example, the 2.4L engine commonly uses 5W-20, while the 3.5L V6 engine typically requires 5W-30. You should always check your owner's manual or the oil cap for the specific recommendation for your vehicle. 
Recommended oil types by engine

• 2.4L 4-cylinder: 5W-20 (e.g., Camry, Matrix)
• 3.5L V6: 5W-30 (e.g., Camry, Tacoma) 

Other important considerations

• Check your owner's manual or oil cap: This is the most reliable way to confirm the correct oil type for your specific vehicle, as recommendations can vary by engine size and model. 
• Synthetic vs. Conventional: You can use either full synthetic or conventional oil, but synthetic is often recommended for better performance and protection, especially in higher-mileage engines. 
• High-mileage oil: If your vehicle has over 75,000 miles, consider using a high-mileage formula to help reduce leaks and oil consumption. 

Can I use 5W30 instead of 5W20 in my Toyota?

You should not substitute 5W-20 for 5W-30 in a Toyota unless the owner's manual explicitly allows it, as using the wrong oil can lead to less high-temperature protection and potentially damage the engine over time. Sticking to the manufacturer's recommended oil weight is crucial because it is engineered for specific engine tolerances, and using a different viscosity can impact performance and longevity. 
Potential issues with using 5W-20 instead of 5W-30 

• Reduced high-temperature protection: 5W-30 oil is thicker at normal operating temperatures than 5W-20 oil. Using 5W-20 can lead to increased wear, especially in engines that run hot or are under heavy load. 
• Engine damage: The engine is designed with specific tolerances that are matched to the oil's viscosity. Using a thinner oil can compromise lubrication, potentially leading to more significant internal engine wear over time. 
• Not suitable for all engines: Some older Toyota engines (like the 2JZ, 2VZ, or 3VZ) and certain Lexus engines are not compatible with 5W-20 oil and require 5W-30 or another specified weight. 

When it might be acceptable

• If your owner's manual says so: Some newer Toyota models may recommend 0W-20 or 5W-20, and in these cases, using 5W-20 is appropriate. Always check the owner's manual to confirm the correct oil for your specific vehicle.
• Temporary use: If you accidentally use 5W-20 for a short period, it is unlikely to cause immediate, catastrophic failure, especially in a modern engine. However, it is best to switch to the correct 5W-30 oil at your next oil change to prevent long-term issues. 

What to do

1. Check your owner's manual: The most important step is to confirm the oil weight recommended by the manufacturer for your specific vehicle. 
2. Use the recommended oil: To ensure proper lubrication and protection, always use the oil viscosity that is specified in your owner's manual. 
3. If you used the wrong oil by mistake: If you accidentally used 5W-20, it is best to have the oil changed to the correct 5W-30 as soon as possible to avoid potential damage. 

What kind of oil does a 2007 Scion use?

Oil Grade: API*

Viscosity:	0W-20, 5W-20 (All TEMPS)
Capacity:	4 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.
Torque:	30 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug)