What year did Toyota switch to synthetic oil?
Toyota, one of the world's largest automakers, made the switch to using synthetic oil in its vehicles starting in 2021. This change was implemented across Toyota's entire lineup of cars, trucks, and SUVs, marking a significant shift in the company's approach to engine lubrication.
The Reasons Behind Toyota's Synthetic Oil Transition
There are several key reasons why Toyota decided to transition to synthetic oil in its vehicles:
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Synthetic oils have a lower viscosity than traditional mineral-based oils, which can lead to reduced engine drag and improved fuel economy. This aligns with Toyota's focus on developing more fuel-efficient vehicles.
- Enhanced Engine Protection: Synthetic oils are designed to provide superior lubrication and protection for engine components, helping to extend the lifespan of critical parts and reduce maintenance costs over the long term.
- Environmental Benefits: Synthetic oils typically have a longer service life than conventional oils, reducing the frequency of oil changes and the amount of waste oil that needs to be disposed of or recycled.
By making the switch to synthetic oil, Toyota aims to deliver a more efficient, reliable, and environmentally-friendly driving experience for its customers.
The Transition Process and Implementation
The transition to synthetic oil was a gradual process for Toyota, with the company first introducing it as an option for select models in 2020 before making it the standard across the entire lineup in 2021. This allowed Toyota to ensure a smooth implementation and provide clear guidance to its dealers and customers on the new oil requirements.
Toyota's recommended oil change intervals for synthetic oil are typically longer than those for conventional oil, often ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on the specific model and driving conditions. This can result in cost savings for Toyota owners over the lifetime of their vehicles.
Overall, Toyota's transition to synthetic oil is a significant step forward in the company's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency, performance, and environmental impact of its vehicles.
What oil does Toyota use from the factory?
Genuine Toyota motor oil 0W-20 utilizes a Toyota-specific additive package that will provide the best results for oil performance and fuel economy. However, other 0W-20 synthetic oils can be used as long as they are ILSAC certified, which is found on the oil container label. Was this article helpful?
Why can't you go back to regular oil after synthetic?
Myth: Once you switch to synthetic oil, you can never switch back. This is one of the most persistent myths about synthetic oil—and completely untrue. You can switch back and forth at any time. In fact, synthetic blends are simply a mixture of synthetic and conventional oils.
When did cars switch to full synthetic oil?
Soon after (1975) Mobil Oil saw the benefits of synthetic oil and knew it would one day become huge in consumer light cars and trucks. That is how they came up with their now famous Mobil 1 synthetic motor oil. By the 1990's it was easy to see that every motor oil manufacturer knew this would be the way of the future.
Is Toyota engine oil fully synthetic?
Most newer Toyotas require 0W20 which is fully synthetic if genuine Toyota motor oil. Older models that require 5W20 or 5W30 would meet Toyota standards but not necessarily be full synthetic.
How to tell if oil is synthetic or conventional?
Unfortunately, there is no reliable way of differentiating between mineral and synthetic in the field. However, because synthetic base oils are white (meaning transparent) as compared to mineral oils, which have a darker natural color (due to aromatics, sulfur and other impurities), this may be a distinguishing factor.
What happens if you use synthetic blend instead of full synthetic?
For most vehicles, synthetic blend is a good choice. If your vehicle speficies that full synthetic is required, then a synthetic blend will not be okay – it could actually leave your engine vulnerable to damage.
What is the disadvantage of synthetic oil?
One drawback with synthetic oil is that it costs twice or even four times as much a conventional oil. Research has found that some multi-grade oils using synthetics show only marginally less fuel economy. Moreover, machinery engines can be vulnerable to seal leaks and additives precipitation in cold storage conditions.
Does Toyota recommend full synthetic oil?
Toyota recommends Toyota Genuine SAE 0W-20 Full-Synthetic motor oil for new vehicles. Older models may require Toyota Genuine 5W-30 motor oil; consult with one of our service advisors or your vehicle manual to check if you are unsure.
When did Toyota start using synthetic oil?
2010
Toyota and Scion 2010 model year vehicles are transitioning to a synthetic lubrication standard (SAE 0W-20). This transition keeps Toyota ahead of the latest emission requirements for auto manufacturers.
When should you not use full synthetic oil?
Better For Older Engines
This being said, however, it is still not recommended to use synthetic oil in engines that have experienced significant actions – specifically, those that have reached around 75,000 miles on the odometer.
