2021 Toyota Tacoma Fluid Specs

Quick Reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil	SAE 0W-20 (API SN / ILSAC GF-5)	5.5 - 6.2 qt
Engine Coolant	Toyota Super Long Life Coolant	10.1 - 11.3 qt
Automatic Transmission Fluid	Toyota Genuine ATF WS	10.6 qt
Transfer Case Fluid	Toyota Genuine Transfer Gear Oil LF 75W	1.1 qt
Front Differential Fluid	Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5	1.6 qt
Rear Differential Fluid	Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5	2.9 - 4.4 qt
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	As needed
Power Steering Fluid	N/A (Electric Power Steering)	N/A
Windshield Washer Fluid	-	4.8 qt

Engine Oil

Specification: API SN / ILSAC GF-5 Viscosity: SAE 0W-20

For the 2021 Toyota Tacoma, the recommended engine oil is SAE 0W-20. This is a low-viscosity, full synthetic oil designed for modern engines to improve fuel economy and cold-start performance. Always use an oil that meets or exceeds API Service SN and ILSAC GF-5 specifications. Using a different viscosity may lead to increased engine wear and could potentially void your warranty. The oil change interval is typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, but it's wise to check your oil level periodically.

Engine Coolant

Specification: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC)

Toyota specifies its own "Super Long Life Coolant" for the 2021 Tacoma. This is a pink, ethylene-glycol based OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant. It's crucial not to mix this coolant with other types, such as the older red Toyota Long Life Coolant or universal green coolants. Doing so can cause the coolant to gel, leading to blockages in the cooling system and potential engine damage. The factory fill is designed to last for 100,000 miles, with subsequent changes recommended every 50,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid

Specification: Toyota Genuine ATF WS (World Standard)

The automatic transmission in the 2021 Tacoma requires Toyota's specific "ATF WS" fluid. This is a low-viscosity fluid that is not interchangeable with other types of ATF, including Dexron, Mercon, or even other Toyota fluids like Type T-IV. Using the wrong fluid can lead to harsh shifting, transmission shudder, and eventual failure. The transmission is a "sealed" unit, but fluid changes are recommended for severe-duty use or high-mileage vehicles.

Transfer Case Fluid

Specification: Toyota Genuine Transfer Gear Oil LF 75W

For 4WD models, the transfer case requires a specific 75W gear oil. This is a light-viscosity oil designed for the transfer case's specific needs. Do not substitute with a generic 75W-90 gear oil. The change interval is typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on usage.

Differential Fluid

Front Specification: Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5 Rear Specification: Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5

Both front and rear differentials on the 2021 Tacoma use a 75W-85 GL-5 gear oil. Some off-road models with a locking rear differential may have specific fluid requirements, so it's always best to verify with your owner's manual. Differentials work hard, and the fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or more frequently if you tow or go off-road often.

Brake Fluid

Specification: DOT 3

Toyota specifies standard DOT 3 brake fluid for the 2021 Tacoma. While DOT 4 can be used as it has a higher boiling point, it's not necessary and is more hygroscopic (absorbs moisture faster). Never use DOT 5, as it is silicone-based and incompatible with the Tacoma's braking system. Brake fluid should be changed every 2-3 years, as it absorbs moisture over time, which can lead to a spongy pedal and corrosion of brake components.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS), so there is no hydraulic power steering system and thus no power steering fluid to change.

Windshield Washer Fluid

There is no specific brand or type of windshield washer fluid required. Use any quality washer fluid, and in colder climates, be sure to use a fluid with a low freezing point to prevent damage to the washer system.

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