2021 Toyota Highlander Fluid Type Specs

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	SAE 0W-16 (API SN/SN PLUS/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6A)	4.8 - 5.8 quarts (4.5 - 5.5 liters)
Engine Coolant	Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC)	7.6 - 8.3 quarts (7.2 - 7.9 liters)
Transmission Fluid	Toyota Genuine ATF WS	6.9 - 7.2 quarts (6.5 - 6.8 liters)
Transfer Case	Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5	0.4 - 0.5 quarts (0.4 - 0.45 liters)
Rear Differential	Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5	0.5 - 0.6 quarts (0.5 - 0.55 liters)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4	As required
Power Steering	Electric Power Steering (EPS) - No fluid required	N/A
Washer Fluid	Toyota Genuine Windshield Washer Fluid or equivalent	4.8 quarts (4.5 liters)

Engine Oil

The 2021 Toyota Highlander is specified with SAE 0W-16 viscosity grade engine oil. This is a low-viscosity oil designed for modern engines to improve fuel economy and cold-start performance. It is critical to use the correct viscosity to ensure proper lubrication and protection.

• Specification: The oil must meet API SN, SN PLUS, or the latest SP standard. It should also be ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6A certified. Look for the API "starburst" and "donut" symbols on the container.
• Capacity: With a filter change, the 3.5L V6 engine requires approximately 5.8 quarts (5.5 liters), while the 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid models require around 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters). Always verify the level on the dipstick after filling.
• Interval: Toyota recommends a change interval of 10,000 miles or 12 months under normal driving conditions. For severe duty (frequent short trips, dusty environments, towing), the interval should be shortened to 5,000 miles or 6 months.
• Note: While SAE 0W-20 may be used as a substitute if 0W-16 is unavailable, it should be replaced with 0W-16 at the next oil change to maintain optimal fuel efficiency.

Engine Coolant

Toyota vehicles use a proprietary pink/red coolant chemistry. Using the wrong type can lead to corrosion and damage to the cooling system.

• Type/Spec: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC). This is a high-quality, pre-mixed 50/50 OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant. Do not mix it with other coolant types, including older Toyota red coolant or universal green/yellow coolants.
• Capacity: The cooling system holds between 7.6 and 8.3 quarts (7.2 - 7.9 liters), depending on the powertrain and drivetrain configuration.
• Interval: SLLC is designed for an initial service interval of 10 years or 100,000 miles. Subsequent changes are recommended every 5 years or 50,000 miles.
• Pitfall: Never mix different coolant technologies. If you need to top off the system and don't have access to Toyota SLLC, use distilled water in an emergency, but have the system flushed and refilled with the correct coolant as soon as possible. Mixing can cause the coolant to gel, leading to blockages and overheating.

Transmission Fluid

The Highlander uses a specific low-viscosity fluid for its automatic transmission. Using a generic "universal" ATF can cause shifting problems and premature wear.

• Type/Spec: Toyota Genuine ATF WS (World Standard). This is the only fluid specified for use in the 8-speed automatic transmission. There is no direct aftermarket equivalent that is officially licensed by Toyota.
• Capacity: A full system fill is approximately 6.9 - 7.2 quarts (6.5 - 6.8 liters). A typical drain-and-fill procedure will replace only a portion of this volume. This is a non-serviceable item for the life of the vehicle under normal driving conditions.
• Interval: The ATF WS fluid is considered "lifetime" fluid and does not have a prescribed change interval under normal operating conditions. However, many technicians recommend a drain-and-fill every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, especially if the vehicle is used for towing, to prolong the life of the transmission.

Drivetrain Fluids (AWD Models)

For All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models, the transfer case and rear differential require a specific gear oil.

Transfer Case

• Type/Spec: Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5.
• Capacity: Approximately 0.4 - 0.5 quarts (0.4 - 0.45 liters). The level should be checked by removing the fill plug; fluid should be at the bottom edge of the fill plug hole.

Rear Differential

• Type/Spec: Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5.
• Capacity: Approximately 0.5 - 0.6 quarts (0.5 - 0.55 liters).
• Interval: Toyota recommends inspecting the fluid level every 10,000 miles or 12 months and replacing it every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or more frequently if the vehicle is used for towing or off-roading.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This lowers its boiling point and can lead to corrosion in the brake lines and calipers.

• Type/Spec: DOT 3 or DOT 4. Both are compatible, but DOT 4 has a higher boiling point, offering an extra margin of safety. Do not use DOT 5 silicone-based fluid, as it is incompatible with the system's seals.
• Capacity: The system should be filled as required. A full flush and bleed typically uses 1-2 quarts.
• Interval: There is no universally agreed-upon mileage for changing brake fluid, but a common recommendation is every 2-3 years, regardless of mileage, to remove accumulated moisture.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander is equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS). This system uses an electric motor to assist the driver, eliminating the need for a hydraulic pump, hoses, and fluid. Therefore, there is no power steering fluid to check or change.

Washer Fluid

• Type/Spec: Use a quality washer fluid concentrate or pre-mix, such as Toyota Genuine Windshield Washer Fluid. In colder climates, use a fluid with antifreeze properties to prevent freezing in the reservoir and on the windshield.
• Capacity: The reservoir holds approximately 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters).

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