2020 Toyota Corolla Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2020 Toyota Corolla takes 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) of 0W-16 engine oil for both the 1.8L 2ZR-FAE engine and the 2.0L M20A-FKS engine.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 4.2 US Quarts (4.0 Liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-16
• Oil Type Specification: API SN PLUS or later, ILSAC GF-6B
• OEM Oil Filter Part Number (1.8L & 2.0L): Toyota 04152-YZZA6
• Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
  • Fram: CH12123
  • Wix: WL10010
  • Mobil 1: M1C-153A

Capacity by engine option

Oil change interval

Toyota recommends the following oil change intervals for the 2020 Corolla:

• Normal Duty: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Driving conditions considered "severe duty" include frequent short trips, extensive idling, towing, driving in dusty conditions, or extreme temperatures. If you often operate your vehicle under these conditions, it's advisable to follow the severe duty maintenance schedule to ensure optimal engine protection and longevity.

Drain plug torque

The drain plug torque specification for the 2020 Toyota Corolla (both 1.8L and 2.0L engines) is 20 ft-lbs (27 Nm). Always use a new crush washer with the drain plug to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The crush washer is typically included with a new oil filter or can be purchased separately from a Toyota dealer (Part Number: 90430-12031).

How to change the oil

1. Warm up the engine: Drive the car for a few minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature, making it flow more easily.
2. Lift and secure: Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Always use appropriate safety precautions.
3. Locate drain plug: Place a drain pan under the oil pan. Remove the drain plug with a 14mm wrench or socket. Allow the old oil to drain completely.
4. Replace crush washer: Once drained, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer. Reinstall the drain plug and torque to 20 ft-lbs (27 Nm).
5. Remove oil filter: Place a small pan under the oil filter housing. Use an oil filter wrench (typically a 64mm 14-flute cap wrench) to remove the plastic oil filter housing. Remove the old filter element and O-rings.
6. Install new filter: Install the new oil filter element and lubricate the new O-rings with fresh engine oil before installing them on the filter housing cap. Reinstall the housing cap and hand-tighten, then give a slight turn with the wrench until snug. Do not overtighten, as this is a plastic housing.
7. Add new oil: Lower the vehicle. Remove the oil filler cap and add 4.2 quarts of new 0W-16 engine oil.
8. Check oil level: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Turn it off, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.

Common issues / tips

• 0W-16 Oil Specificity: The 2020 Corolla is designed for 0W-16 oil. Using a much thicker oil (like 5W-30) can decrease fuel economy and potentially affect engine performance and longevity. Stick to the manufacturer's recommendation.
• Plastic Oil Filter Housing: Be cautious when removing and reinstalling the plastic oil filter housing. Overtightening can crack the housing, leading to leaks and costly repairs. Ensure the O-rings are correctly seated.
• Crush Washer: Always replace the drain plug crush washer. This small, inexpensive part is crucial for preventing oil leaks.
• "LOW ENGINE OIL MAINTENANCE REQUIRED" Light Reset: After changing the oil, the "Maintenance Required" light on your dashboard may need to be reset. This process typically involves turning the ignition to the "ON" position (without starting the engine), pressing and holding the odometer reset button until the display shows "Trip A" or "Trip B," and then turning the ignition off while still holding the button. Turn the ignition back on and the light should flash and then turn off. Consult your owner's manual for the exact procedure if this doesn't work.

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