What kind of oil does a 2016 tundra take?
The 2016 Toyota Tundra typically uses SAE 5W-30 engine oil in both of its available engines, with about 7 quarts needed for the 5.7L V8 and roughly 6 quarts for the 4.0L V6. It can be either a full synthetic or a synthetic-blend oil, and you should verify the exact specification on the oil fill cap or in the owner’s manual for your particular configuration and climate.
Engine options and oil requirements
Different engines in the 2016 Tundra have the same recommended viscosity but different oil capacities. Here is how the two powertrains break down.
5.7L i-Force V8
The 5.7L V8 in the 2016 Tundra is designed for higher capacity, delivering more torque and payload. Oil selections and capacity are listed here to help with maintenance planning.
- Oil grade: SAE 5W-30
- Oil type: Full synthetic or synthetic-blend oil that meets API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer
- Capacity: Approximately 7 quarts (with filter)
For the 5.7L V8, plan to have about 7 quarts of 5W-30 oil on hand for a full change, and always confirm exact capacity with the manual or the engine oil fill cap.
4.0L V6
The 4.0L V6 provides a different balance of efficiency and power, with a smaller but still substantial oil requirement. The following details apply to most 4.0L configurations in the 2016 Tundra.
- Oil grade: SAE 5W-30
- Oil type: Full synthetic or synthetic-blend oil that meets API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer
- Capacity: Approximately 6 quarts (with filter)
For the 4.0L V6, expect to use around 6 quarts of 5W-30 oil per change, with exact capacity confirmed by the manual or the fill cap.
Oil viscosity and climate considerations
In most regions, the recommended viscosity for the 2016 Tundra’s engines is 5W-30. This viscosity provides a balance of cold-start protection and high-temperature stability. If you live in extreme environments, consult the owner’s manual for any climate-specific guidance, and consider using a high-quality synthetic-blend or full synthetic that meets the same API/ILSAC specifications.
Maintenance intervals and best practices
Oil-change intervals depend on driving conditions and the oil type you choose. If you’re using conventional oil, follow the factory-maintained Minder guidance and typically plan for more frequent changes. With synthetic or synthetic-blend oil, you may be able to extend intervals closer to the maintenance minder recommendations, but always base the interval on driving style (short trips, heavy loads, all-terrain use) and local conditions.
Where to verify the exact specification
Always verify the correct oil type and capacity for your exact vehicle configuration. Check the oil-fill cap for the recommended viscosity, consult the owner’s manual, or contact a Toyota service center if you’re unsure about your 2016 Tundra’s engine model or any updates to service guidance.
Summary
For the 2016 Toyota Tundra, use SAE 5W-30 engine oil in full synthetic or synthetic-blend form. The 5.7L V8 requires about 7 quarts, while the 4.0L V6 needs about 6 quarts. Always confirm the specific capacity and any climate-related guidance in your owner’s manual or on the oil fill cap to ensure optimal performance and protection for your engine.
