2017 Toyota RAV4 Oil Capacity, Weight & Filter Specs

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 takes 4.6 quarts (4.4 liters) of 0W-20 synthetic oil when replacing both the oil and the oil filter. Whether you are driving the standard gas model or the RAV4 Hybrid, keeping your engine's oil at the correct level and using the right specifications is critical for the longevity of your Toyota's powertrain.

As an ASE-certified master technician, I always recommend sticking strictly to Toyota's guidelines to ensure your RAV4 keeps running like new. Below is the complete oil and filter reference guide for the 2017 Toyota RAV4.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 4.6 quarts (4.4 L) with filter change
• Recommended Weight: 0W-20 fully synthetic
• Oil Specification: ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6A / API SN or API SP
• OEM Oil Filter: Toyota 04152-YZZA1 (Cartridge style)
• Aftermarket Cross-References: Fram CH9972, Wix 57064, Mobil 1 M1C-251

Capacity by engine option

For the 2017 model year, Toyota offered the RAV4 with two variations of the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (the standard 2AR-FE and the hybrid 2AR-FXE). Both share the same oil capacity and viscosity requirements.

Oil change interval

Toyota's maintenance schedule varies based on how you drive your RAV4.

• Normal Duty: 10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first). This applies if you drive primarily on paved roads in normal weather conditions without towing or extensive idling.
• Severe Duty: 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first). You fall into this category if you frequently drive on dirt/dusty roads, make repeated trips under 5 miles in freezing temperatures, idle extensively (such as rideshare driving), or frequently tow heavy loads.

Note: Even if you are on the 10,000-mile oil change interval, Toyota recommends rotating the tires and inspecting fluids every 5,000 miles.

Drain plug torque

• Drain Plug Torque: 30 ft-lbs (40 Nm)
• Crush Washer: Always replace the 14mm aluminum drain plug crush washer (Toyota part # 90430-12031) with every oil change. Reusing the old washer is the most common cause of slow oil leaks.

How to change the oil

1. Warm the engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, which helps it drain faster and suspend contaminants.
2. Access the undercarriage: Safely raise and support the vehicle using ramps or jack stands.
3. Drain the oil: Remove the 14mm drain plug from the oil pan. Let the oil drain completely into a catch pan. Replace the crush washer and reinstall the drain plug to 30 ft-lbs.
4. Remove the filter housing: The 2017 RAV4 uses a cartridge-style oil filter underneath. Use a 64mm 14-flute Toyota-specific oil filter wrench to loosen the plastic filter housing.
5. Replace the filter and O-rings: Remove the old paper element and rubber O-rings. Snap the new filter in and lubricate the new O-rings with a dab of fresh engine oil.
6. Reinstall the housing: Thread the filter housing back on by hand, then torque it to 18 ft-lbs (25 Nm). Do not overtighten!
7. Refill the oil: Pour 4.6 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil into the top engine filler hole.
8. Check and reset: Start the engine, check for leaks underneath, turn off the engine, and verify the oil level on the dipstick. Finally, reset the maintenance light on your dashboard.

Common issues / tips

For this generation of the RAV4 (2013–2018), the most common issue DIYers and lube techs face is a seized or broken plastic oil filter housing. If the housing is overtightened during a previous change, the plastic tabs can break off when trying to remove it. Always use the correct 64mm 14-flute tool (do not use generic pliers or strap wrenches) and never exceed the 18 ft-lbs torque limit. Some owners upgrade to the aluminum OEM Toyota filter housing (part # 15620-31060) for better durability, though you must swap the center perforated tube from your original plastic housing to ensure proper oil flow.

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