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What kind of oil does my Toyota Venza take?

For the current Toyota Venza models (2021 and newer), the engine takes 0W-16 synthetic oil. If you own an earlier Venza (2009–2015) with the 3.5L V6, the grade is typically 5W-30 (or 5W-20 in certain climates). Always verify with the owner’s manual or under-hood labeling.


Current Venza models (2021–present)


The Venza sold today is a hybrid-only model built around a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with an electric motor. Here are the oil details you need to maintain it properly.


Key oil specifications for the current Venza:



  • Oil type: 0W-16 synthetic motor oil that meets API SN and ILSAC GF-6 (or GF-5 as applicable to model year).

  • Capacity: About 4.7 quarts (4.4 L) including the oil filter.

  • Recommended brand/style: Toyota Genuine Motor Oil 0W-16 or any commercially available synthetic 0W-16 that meets GF-6.

  • Change interval: Follow the vehicle’s Maintenance Minder; typical service interval is around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) under normal driving, sooner with severe conditions.

  • Notes: Do not substitute a higher-viscosity oil like 5W-30 unless advised by Toyota for a specific service bulletin or climate condition.


In short, for 2021–present Venza hybrids, 0W-16 synthetic is the recommended oil and the fill capacity is roughly 4.7 quarts including the filter; always follow the maintenance minder and refer to the owner’s manual for exact intervals.


Older Venza models (2009–2015)


The original Venza offered a 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FE) and required a different oil specification that depended on climate and production year. The following outlines the typical ranges you would have seen.


Oil specifications for the original Venza (2009–2015):



  • Engine: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE).

  • Oil grade: Typically 5W-30; some markets or model years allowed 5W-20 in very cold climates; confirm with the owner's manual or the engine oil filler cap.

  • Capacity: Approximately 6.4 quarts (with filter), though exact capacity varies by engine and oil filter setup.

  • Notes: Use the oil meeting API service requirements; consult the manual for the exact specification and viscosity for your year and market.


For older Venza models, adhere to the exact grade specified for your climate and engine variant, and ensure the oil capacity matches the engine code.


How to verify the correct oil for your Venza


Because oil specifications can vary by year, trim, and market, use these checks to confirm the right oil for your car:



  • Check the owner's manual and the engine oil filler cap for the exact grade and specification.

  • Consult the vehicle’s maintenance minder or service information if available.

  • If in doubt, contact a Toyota dealer or a trusted mechanic with your VIN to confirm the correct viscosity and spec.


Following these steps helps ensure you use the correct grade and avoid warranty or performance issues.


Summary


Overall, a 2021–present Venza uses 0W-16 synthetic oil with a capacity of about 4.7 quarts, while older Venza models with the 3.5L V6 typically require 5W-30 (and sometimes 5W-20 in colder climates) with roughly 6.4 quarts. Always verify the exact specification in the owner’s manual or on the under-hood label for your vehicle’s year and engine.

What kind of oil does a 2015 Toyota Venza take?


The recommended oil for a 2015 Toyota Venza is 0W-20 full synthetic, although you can use 5W-20 if 0W-20 is unavailable, but should switch back to 0W-20 at the next oil change. The 2.7L 4-cylinder engine requires about 4.6 quarts of oil, while the 3.5L V6 engine needs about 6.1 liters or 7 quarts. 
For the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine:

  • Oil Type: 0W-20 full synthetic is the best choice.
  • Alternative: 5W-20 can be used temporarily if 0W-20 is not available.
  • Capacity: Approximately 4.6 quarts (with filter). 

For the 3.5L V6 engine:
  • Oil Type: 0W-20 full synthetic.
  • Capacity: Approximately 7 liters (or 6.1 quarts). 

Note: Always check your owner's manual to confirm the correct oil type and capacity for your specific vehicle.



What kind of oil does a Toyota Venza use?


Advanced Eurol Evolence 0W16 fully synthetic oil meets or exceeds the recommended API SN RC-Recourse Conserving, new API SP, and ILSAC GF-6B oil specifications required for 2021-2023 Toyota Venza models with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine.



What oil for a 2014 Toyota Venza?


STP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 0W-20 5 Quart.



Can I use 0W16 instead of 0W20 Toyota?


You should only use 0W-16 instead of 0W-20 in a Toyota if the owner's manual explicitly states that 0W-16 is an acceptable alternative, especially for models designed for 0W-20. Using a thinner oil like 0W-16 in an engine that requires 0W-20 can lead to increased wear, but in some cases, manuals allow it for fuel efficiency if it's switched back at the next oil change. 
When you can use 0W-16 instead of 0W-20 

  • Check your owner's manual: Confirm that your vehicle's manual allows for 0W-16 as a substitute for 0W-20.
  • Switch back: If your manual permits it, use 0W-16 but switch back to the recommended 0W-20 at the next oil change. 

Risks of using 0W-16 in a 0W-20 engine
  • Reduced protection: 0W-16 is thinner than 0W-20, and using it in an engine designed for 0W-20 can provide less lubrication and potentially increase wear. 
  • Engine damage: Modern engines with tight clearances and advanced systems may be designed specifically for 0W-20. Using an oil that is too thin can disrupt the oil flow and cause damage. 
  • Impact on performance: Using the wrong viscosity can affect the engine's internal components and potentially damage the engine over time. 

When you should not use 0W-16
  • Never use 0W-16 in an engine that requires a thicker oil like 5W-20 or 5W-30, as this can restrict oil flow and lead to damage. 
  • Do not use 0W-16 if your manual does not explicitly permit it, especially if you plan to stick with that oil for the long term. 


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.