2020 Toyota Highlander Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2020 Toyota Highlander requires 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) of 0W-20 synthetic engine oil for the 3.5L V6 engine.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters). If you have the Hybrid model, which uses a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, it takes 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters).
• Oil Weight: 0W-20 Synthetic
• Oil Spec: API SN PLUS / SP or ILSAC GF-6A
• Oil Filter:
  • OEM: Toyota Part No. 04152-YZZA6 (for 3.5L V6 and 2.5L Hybrid)
  • Fram: CH12060
  • Wix: WL10010
  • Mobil 1: M1C-258

Capacity by engine option

Oil change interval

Toyota recommends an oil change every 10,000 miles or 12 months for normal driving conditions. For severe driving conditions (towing, dusty roads, extreme temperatures, extensive idling, or frequent short trips), it's advisable to change the oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months.

Drain plug torque

• Drain Plug Torque: 30 ft-lbs (40 Nm)
• Crush Washer: Always use a new crush washer with each oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. Toyota part number for the crush washer is generally 90430-12031, though confirming with your dealer for your specific year and model is always recommended.

How to change the oil

1. Warm up the engine to operating temperature, then shut it off.
2. Safely lift the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
3. Locate the oil drain plug on the oil pan (typically at the lowest point of the engine).
4. Place a drain pan large enough to hold all the oil under the drain plug.
5. Remove the drain plug with a wrench and allow the oil to drain completely. Inspect the old crush washer.
6. Once drained, clean the area around the drain plug, install the new crush washer, and reinstall the drain plug, torquing it to 30 ft-lbs.
7. Locate the oil filter canister. It's often on the front of the engine, sometimes with a plastic cap. Use a specialized oil filter wrench to remove the cap and then remove the old filter element.
8. Clean the oil filter housing, lubricate the new filter's O-rings with a little fresh oil, and insert the new filter element. Reinstall the filter cap and torque it to the manufacturer's specification (often around 18-20 ft-lbs, but consult your owner's manual).
9. Lower the vehicle safely.
10. Remove the oil cap on top of the engine and pour in the recommended amount of new motor oil.
11. Reinstall the oil cap and start the engine. Let it run for a few minutes and check for leaks under the vehicle.
12. Shut off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary, making sure not to overfill.
13. Properly dispose of the old oil and filter.

Common issues / tips

• Oil Filter Housing: The 2020 Highlander (like many modern Toyotas) uses a cartridge-style oil filter within a plastic or aluminum housing. Be careful not to overtighten the cap, especially if it's plastic, as it can crack. Always replace the O-rings that come with your new oil filter.
• Underbody Cover: You may need to remove an access panel or a portion of the underbody splash shield to access the oil drain plug and filter. These are typically held in place with fasteners and clips.
• Hybrid Considerations: If you have the Hybrid model, the oil change procedure is largely similar, but always double-check your owner's manual for any specific nuances related to the hybrid powertrain.
• Regular Checks: Even with modern engines, it's a good practice to periodically check your oil level between changes to ensure optimal engine health, especially before long trips.

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