Which engine oil is used by Toyota?

In short, Toyota does not rely on a single engine oil across its entire lineup. The recommended viscosity and specification depend on the engine type, model year, and market. The most common choice in many modern Toyota vehicles is 0W-20 synthetic oil, but some engines require 0W-16 or 5W-30/5W-40, and diesel engines have their own requirements. Always consult the owner's manual or Toyota's official service literature for your specific vehicle.

Why Toyota varies oil recommendations

Automaker engineering balances fuel efficiency, emissions, and engine protection. The viscosity grade and oil specification are chosen to ensure reliable cold-start performance and adequate lubrication across operating temperatures. In practice, this means a different oil may be specified for a hybrid vs. a turbocharged gasoline engine, or for a diesel engine sold in a different market.

Before diving into specifics, here is a snapshot of the typical oils you may encounter in Toyota's current lineup.

• 0W-20 synthetic: The default choice for many modern gasoline engines and hybrids in many markets.


• 0W-16 synthetic: Used in a subset of newer engines and some hybrids where Toyota targets higher efficiency.


• 5W-30 or 5W-40: Used for certain turbocharged gasoline engines, some diesel engines, or in hot climates where higher viscosity is beneficial.

Regardless of grade, oil must meet applicable standards. Always verify with the manual or official guidance for your vehicle.

Oil standards and where Toyota fits in

Beyond viscosity, engines require oils that meet performance specs. Toyota commonly recommends oils that meet API SP (or SN, depending on the vehicle year) and ILSAC GF-6 or GF-5. Many Toyota engines also specify compatibility with Toyota Genuine Motor Oil products that are labeled to meet Toyota's own specification. When buying oil, look for both the viscosity grade and these certifications to ensure compatibility.

Market variations and engine families

Oil recommendations can differ by region due to climate, regulatory requirements, and the specific engine family used in a vehicle. For example, North American models typically use 0W-20 for most gasoline engines, while some European or Asian models may have 0W-20 or 0W-16 depending on the engine and climate. Diesel engines in markets where they are sold often require higher-viscosity oils such as 5W-30 or 5W-40. Always consult the local owner's manual or a Toyota dealer for the exact specification.

How to determine the exact oil for your Toyota

To ensure you select the correct oil for your vehicle, follow these steps:

1. Identify your exact model year, engine type, and regional market.


2. Check the owner's manual for the recommended viscosity and oil specification for that engine.


3. Choose an oil that meets the specified grade and certification (for example, 0W-20 API SP with ILSAC GF-6, or 5W-30 with API SN for older models).


4. Prefer Toyota Genuine Motor Oil or another brand that explicitly meets Toyota’s specification for your engine.


5. Follow oil-change intervals as advised by Toyota for your driving conditions.

By following these steps, you ensure compatibility, protect the engine, and maintain performance and efficiency.

Summary

There's no single engine oil suitable for all Toyota vehicles. The recommended oil varies by engine family, year, and region. The most common default for modern Toyotas is 0W-20 synthetic; 0W-16 is used on some newer or hybrid engines; and diesel or turbocharged engines may require 5W-30 or 5W-40. Always verify with the owner's manual or Toyota's official guidance to confirm the exact viscosity and specifications required for your vehicle.

Is Toyota oil just Mobil 1?

No, Toyota oil is not the same as Mobil 1, although ExxonMobil manufactures both Toyota Genuine Motor Oil and Mobil 1, reports a YouTube video and Reddit users. Toyota Genuine Motor Oil is made to a Toyota-specific formula, while Mobil 1 is a separate brand of oil from ExxonMobil. 

• Manufacturer: ExxonMobil manufactures both products. 
• Formula: Toyota Genuine Motor Oil (TGMO) is made to a Toyota-specified formula, not the standard Mobil 1 formula. 
• Brand: While the manufacturer is the same, they are different brands sold under different names. 
• Performance: Both are high-quality oils designed to meet the requirements of Toyota vehicles, but their specific additive packages and performance characteristics may differ slightly. 
• Recommendation: It's best to check your owner's manual to see which oil is recommended for your specific Toyota model and engine, and you can choose either the Toyota Genuine Motor Oil or a high-quality synthetic oil like Mobil 1, as long as the viscosity grade is correct. 

Which engine oil is best for Toyota?

The best oil for a Toyota depends on the model, but 0W-20 full synthetic is the recommendation for most modern Toyotas, while older models may use 5W-30 or other viscosities. Always check your vehicle's owner's manual for the precise recommendation, as the correct type of oil is crucial for proper engine function, performance, and longevity. 
For modern Toyotas

• 0W-20 synthetic: This is the most common recommendation for modern sedans (like the Camry) and SUVs (like the RAV4 and Highlander) because it provides excellent cold-start protection, smooth operation, and better fuel economy. 
• 0W-8 or 0W-16 synthetic: These are often recommended for hybrid models like the Prius to maximize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. 

For older or high-mileage Toyotas

• 5W-30 synthetic or conventional: This is a good option for older vehicles, especially in very hot climates, or for high-mileage engines (over 75,000 miles) that may benefit from the thicker film and added protection.
• High-mileage oil: If your vehicle has high mileage, a high-mileage oil is specifically designed to provide extra protection, with features like additives to condition seals and prevent leaks. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: The most definitive source of information is your owner's manual, which will specify the correct oil viscosity and quality standards (e.g., API, ILSAC) your engine requires. 
• Use full synthetic: For modern engines, full synthetic oil is often recommended as it performs better under extreme temperatures and is designed to be more durable. 
• Stick to oil specifications: Using an oil that is too thick or thin, or one that lacks the correct additives, can lead to engine damage over time. 

Which oil is best for Toyotas?

For most modern Toyota sedans and SUVs, 0W20 motor oil offers a perfect blend of protection and efficiency.

What brand of motor oil does Toyota use?

Toyota recommends its own Genuine Motor Oil for its vehicles, which is specifically formulated for Toyota engines. However, other brands like Mobil 1 are also suitable for Toyota vehicles, provided the oil meets the specific viscosity grade and API certifications listed in the owner's manual.
 
Toyota Genuine Motor Oil

• Formulation: Specially formulated by Toyota to protect against corrosion, prevent foaming, and keep the engine clean.
• Performance: Designed for optimal performance and efficiency in Toyota engines.
• Recommendation: Toyota recommends using Genuine Motor Oil for the best results, especially with the use of a Toyota oil filter, as per Toyota. 

Other compatible brands

• Mobil 1: A major brand that offers oils specifically tested and verified to meet Toyota's viscosity and specification requirements. 
• Other brands: Many other major brands are suitable as long as they meet the ILSAC and API certifications specified in your vehicle's owner's manual, according to Toyota. 

What to do

• Check your owner's manual: Always check your owner's manual for the correct oil type, viscosity grade (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-30), and any other specific requirements for your vehicle. 
• Match the specifications: Choose an oil, whether Toyota Genuine or another brand, that matches the required specifications for your car to ensure optimal performance and protection, notes Norm Reeves Toyota San Diego.