2016 Toyota Tacoma — Oil Capacity & Filter Specs

The 2016 Toyota Tacoma takes 6.2 quarts (5.9 liters) of oil with filter for the 2.7L I4, and 6.1 quarts (5.8 liters) with filter for the 3.5L V6.

Quick answer

• 2.7L I4 (2TR-FE)
  • Oil capacity: 6.2 qt (5.9 L) w/filter
  • Recommended oil weight: 0W-20 full synthetic
  • Oil spec: ILSAC GF-5/API SN or newer (backward-compatible API SP/GF-6A is fine)
  • Oil filter: Toyota OEM 04152-YZZA1 (cartridge). Aftermarket: Fram CH9972; Mobil 1 M1C-154A
• 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)
  • Oil capacity: 6.1 qt (5.8 L) w/filter
  • Recommended oil weight: 0W-20 full synthetic
  • Oil spec: ILSAC GF-5/API SN or newer (API SP/GF-6A acceptable)
  • Oil filter: Toyota OEM 04152-YZZA1 (cartridge). Aftermarket: Fram CH9972; Mobil 1 M1C-154A

Capacity by engine option

Oil change interval

• Normal service: Up to 10,000 miles or 12 months with 0W-20 synthetic, whichever comes first (follow Toyota maintenance minder if equipped).
• Severe service (frequent towing/hauling, extensive idling, repeated short trips, dusty or off-road use, very hot/cold climates): Every 5,000 miles or 6 months. Many Tacoma owners in dusty/off-road conditions stick to 5,000-mile intervals regardless.

Drain plug torque

• Engine oil drain plug: 30 ft-lb (≈40 N·m)
• Cartridge filter housing cap: 18 ft-lb (≈25 N·m)
• Cartridge filter housing drain plug (small center plug): 10 ft-lb (≈13 N·m)
• Crush washer: Replace the aluminum drain plug gasket at every service. Consult a Toyota dealer for the correct washer part number for your VIN.

How to change the oil

1. Warm the engine, park level, set the brake, and remove the front skid plate or service access cover (varies by trim).
2. Remove the oil fill cap and dipstick to help the crankcase vent.
3. Place a drain pan and remove the drain plug; replace the crush washer and torque to 30 ft-lb after draining.
4. For the cartridge filter: remove the small drain plug in the filter cap and use the included plastic drain tool (if supplied with the new filter) to empty the housing. Then remove the main filter cap with a 64 mm, 14‑flute canister wrench.
5. Replace the paper cartridge, the large cap O‑ring, and the small drain plug O‑ring. Lightly oil the new O‑rings and ensure the large O‑ring sits in the correct groove—do not roll it over the threads.
6. Reinstall the cap and torque to 18 ft‑lb; install the small drain plug and torque to 10 ft‑lb.
7. Add 0W‑20: start with about 5.5 qt, then top up toward the listed capacity (6.2 qt I4 or 6.1 qt V6) after running the engine and checking for leaks.
8. Shut off, wait a few minutes, and verify the dipstick reads at or just below the full mark; adjust as needed.
9. Reinstall skid plates/access covers and reset the maintenance reminder.

Common issues / tips (3rd‑gen Tacoma, 2016–2023)

• Cartridge cap care: The factory plastic filter cap can crack if overtightened or removed with the wrong tool. Always use a 64 mm, 14‑flute canister wrench and torque to spec. Many owners upgrade to an aluminum cap for durability.
• O‑ring placement: A mis-seated large O‑ring on the filter cap will cause leaks. Ensure it’s in the dedicated groove, not on the cap threads.
• Skid plate hardware: Clips and bolts can strip or seize. Support the plate during removal and apply anti‑seize on reinstall.
• Off‑road/dust: Dusty service shortens oil life and loads the air filter—follow the severe schedule and check the air filter at each oil change.
• Oil cooler/filter housing seep: On higher‑mileage V6s, seepage can develop around the oil filter/cooler assembly. Clean and monitor for fresh oil; address gaskets/seals if needed.
• Fill quantity vs. dipstick: Add most of the capacity, run the engine, then top off gradually. Overfilling can aerate the oil and trigger leaks or codes.

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