2019 Toyota RAV4 Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 requires 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) of 0W-16 synthetic engine oil when performing an oil and filter change. As an ASE-certified master technician, I regularly see these completely redesigned fifth-generation RAV4s roll into the shop. Equipped with Toyota's new "Dynamic Force" 2.5-liter engine, this is one of the first mass-market vehicles to specify ultra-low viscosity 0W-16 motor oil to maximize fuel economy.

Whether you drive the standard gasoline model or the Hybrid, we have compiled all the essential specifications, capacities, and part numbers you need to service your 2019 RAV4 correctly.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity: 4.8 quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter replacement.
• Recommended Oil Weight: SAE 0W-16 (0W-20 may be used for one oil change cycle if 0W-16 is unavailable, but must be replaced with 0W-16 at the next change).
• Oil Specification: ILSAC GF-6B / API SN Plus or SP.
• OEM Oil Filter: Toyota 90915-YZZN1 (Note: Toyota returned to a standard spin-on filter for this engine generation!).
• Aftermarket Filters: Fram PH10362, WIX 51394, Mobil 1 M1-103A.

Capacity by Engine Option

For the 2019 model year, Toyota offered two variations of the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine (one standard, one hybrid). Fortunately for the DIY mechanic, both engines share the exact same oil capacity and viscosity requirements.

Oil Change Interval

Toyota’s official maintenance schedule varies depending on how you use your RAV4:

• Normal Duty: 10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first). This applies to standard highway and city driving.
• Severe Duty: 5,000 miles or 6 months. You fall into this category if you frequently drive on dirt/dusty roads, tow a trailer, use a car-top carrier, or take repeated short trips in freezing temperatures where the engine doesn't reach full operating temperature.

Tech Tip: Even though Toyota allows 10,000-mile intervals under normal conditions, many technicians (myself included) highly recommend a 5,000-mile interval to maximize the lifespan of the engine's complex variable valve timing (VVT-iE) system.

Drain Plug Torque & Crush Washer

• Drain Plug Torque: 30 ft-lbs (40 Nm)
• Drain Plug Size: 14mm wrench or socket
• Crush Washer Part Number: Toyota 90430-12031 (12mm inside diameter)

Always replace the aluminum or fiber crush washer during every oil change. Reusing the old gasket is the number one cause of annoying driveway oil drips.

How to Change the Oil

Performing an oil change on the 2019 RAV4 is surprisingly easy thanks to Toyota abandoning the messy cartridge-style filters used on previous generations.

1. Prepare the Vehicle: Park on a level surface. Apply the parking brake and raise the front of the vehicle using proper ramps or a jack and jack stands.
2. Remove the Access Panel: Underneath the vehicle, remove the metal access panel covering the oil filter and drain plug (usually held on by four 10mm bolts or Phillips-head fasteners).
3. Drain the Oil: Place your catch pan under the oil pan. Use a 14mm socket to remove the drain plug. Allow the oil to drain completely.
4. Replace the Filter: Position the pan under the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to unscrew the spin-on filter. Lubricate the rubber gasket of your new filter (Toyota 90915-YZZN1) with fresh oil. Spin it on by hand until the gasket contacts the base, then tighten an additional 3/4 turn.
5. Reinstall Drain Plug: Install a new crush washer on the drain plug. Thread it in by hand and torque to 30 ft-lbs. Reinstall the access panel.
6. Refill and Check: Lower the vehicle. Pour 4.8 quarts of 0W-16 oil into the engine. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds to fill the filter. Turn it off, wait two minutes, and check the dipstick to ensure the level is at the top mark.

Common Issues / Tips for the 5th Gen RAV4

• Finding 0W-16 Oil: When the 2019 RAV4 debuted, 0W-16 was difficult to find outside of a dealership. Today, major brands like Mobil 1, Valvoline, and Pennzoil offer 0W-16 at local auto parts stores. Do not substitute heavier oils like 5W-30, as the engine's tight bearing clearances and variable oil pump are calibrated specifically for ultra-low viscosity oil.
• Spill-Free Filling: The oil filler neck on the 2.5L Dynamic Force engine has a slight baffle inside. Pour the fresh oil slowly to prevent it from backing up and spilling over the valve cover.
• Maintenance Reset: To reset the "Maintenance Required" light, use the directional pad on the steering wheel to navigate to the gear icon (Settings) on the gauge cluster screen. Select "Vehicle Settings", then "Scheduled Maintenance", and confirm the reset.

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