2018 Toyota RAV4 Oil Capacity & Filter Specs

The 2018 Toyota RAV4 takes 4.6 quarts (4.4 liters) of 0W-20 engine oil.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity: 4.6 US Quarts (4.4 Liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 0W-20
• Oil Type Specification: API SN PLUS or later, ILSAC GF-5 or later
• Oil Filter (OEM): Toyota P/N 90915-YZZF2
• Oil Filter (Aftermarket Cross-Reference):
  • Fram: PH4967
  • Wix: 57062
  • Mobil 1: M1-103

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

Toyota recommends the following oil change intervals for the 2018 RAV4:

• Normal Duty: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. This applies if you frequently drive under conditions such as: short trips in extreme cold, extensive idling, towing, driving in dusty conditions, or frequent stop-and-go traffic.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug for the 2018 Toyota RAV4 should be torqued to 30 ft-lbs (41 Nm). Always replace the crush washer with a new one during every oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The OEM crush washer part number is 90430-12031.

How to Change the Oil

1. Gather your tools: new oil filter, new oil, drain pan, wrench for drain plug, oil filter wrench, new crush washer, rags, and safety glasses.
2. Warm up the engine slightly, then turn it off and let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Locate the drain plug on the oil pan underneath the vehicle. Place the drain pan directly below it.
4. Using the correct size wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Allow all the old oil to drain completely.
5. Once the oil has drained, replace the old crush washer with a new one and reinstall the drain plug. Torque it to 30 ft-lbs.
6. Locate the oil filter. It is often accessible from underneath or above the vehicle, depending on the engine. If it's a canister-style filter, you'll need a special filter wrench.
7. Remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for some residual oil to drain out.
8. Apply a thin coat of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
9. Install the new oil filter, tightening it by hand until snug, then an additional 3/4 turn, or as specified by the filter manufacturer (usually printed on the filter itself).
10. Add the correct amount and type of new oil through the oil filler cap on top of the engine.
11. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the drain plug or oil filter.
12. Turn 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.
13. Properly dispose of the old oil and filter at a recycling center.

Common Issues / Tips for the 2018 Toyota RAV4 (XA40 Generation)

• Oil Consumption: While less common than in earlier generations, some 2.5L engines in this generation might exhibit higher than usual oil consumption. Regularly checking your oil level between changes is a good practice.
• Oil Filter Housing: The 2018 RAV4 typically uses a cartridge-style oil filter within a plastic housing. Be careful not to overtighten the housing when reinstalling, as it can crack. Ensure the o-rings are properly seated.
• Underbody Cover: The RAV4 has an underbody cover that may need to be removed or partially moved to access the oil drain plug and filter. This usually involves several 10mm bolts and some plastic clips.
• Resetting Maintenance Light: After an oil change, you will need to manually reset the maintenance light on your dashboard. This is typically done through the multi-information display using steering wheel controls.

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