Your T24A-FTS turbocharged engine uses oil for both lubrication and cooling. The turbo runs over 1000°F, making proper oil level critical.
Running low can cause catastrophic turbo or engine damage within seconds. Here's how to check it properly and what you need to know about adding oil.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 524-526, 615)
What's Covered:
Tools and Materials:
Time Estimate: 5-10 minutes for checking; 2-3 minutes for adding oil
Skill Level: Beginner (no special tools required)
Conditions:
Follow these six steps carefully to ensure accurate oil level reading.
Step-by-Step Procedure:
A certain amount of engine oil will be consumed while driving. This is normal.
When oil consumption may increase:
Turbo Engine Note: Turbocharged engines like the T24A-FTS consume slightly more oil than naturally aspirated engines due to higher operating temperatures and turbo lubrication. Consumption of up to 1 quart per 1,000-1,500 miles can be normal during break-in or severe use.
If you repeatedly drive short distances without the engine warming up fully, moisture from condensation inside the engine or unburned fuel can mix into engine oil, causing oil level to rise. This is NOT a malfunction.
Conditions where engine doesn't warm up fully:
What to do: When checking engine oil, make sure the engine is warmed up. If the engine oil level exceeds the refill upper limit mark, contact your Toyota dealer.
Note: This is called "fuel dilution" and is common in cold climates with short trips. The solution is periodic highway driving to fully warm the engine and evaporate contaminants.
When to Add Oil:
If the oil level is below or near the low level mark, add engine oil of the same type as that already in the engine.
Oil Capacity (Drain and refill):
Oil Quantity (Low level mark to Refill upper limit mark):
1.5 qt. (1.4 L, 1.2 Imp.qt.)
Oil Grade Required:
ILSAC GF-6A multigrade engine oil
Recommended Viscosity:
SAE 0W-20 (best choice for fuel economy and cold weather starting)
Alternate Viscosity (Emergency Only):
SAE 5W-20 oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-20 at the next oil change.
Why 0W-20 Matters:
The T24A-FTS turbocharged engine requires 0W-20 for best fuel economy and turbocharger protection. The "0W" winter rating ensures proper flow at cold startup (critical for turbo bearing lubrication). Using heavier oil like 5W-30 may reduce fuel economy and could affect Variable Valve Timing (VVT) operation.
When to Reset:
After changing the engine oil (not after just topping off), the engine oil maintenance data should be reset.
Reset Procedure (Vehicles with 7-inch Display):
This confirms the reset. The maintenance reminder will clear and begin counting from zero.
Note: This reset procedure is for the oil change interval tracker only. It does NOT reset other maintenance reminders (tire rotation, cabin filter, etc.). Those have separate reset procedures. For vehicles with larger displays (8-inch or 14-inch), the procedure may differ slightly. Consult the manual section on Multi-Information Display settings.
Early First Oil Change Recommended (2,700-3,000 miles)
Many 4th Gen Tacoma owners are doing the first oil change much earlier than the manual's 10,000 mile recommendation. The T24A-FTS turbo engine benefits from early removal of break-in contaminants. Oil analysis shows factory oil is high-quality, but owners still prefer early first change for break-in metal removal.
Source: Tacoma4G.com
Prefill the New Oil Filter
Pour fresh oil into the new filter until it stops absorbing (usually about 2/3 full). This reduces dry-start time when the engine first fires up after the change.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Factory Filter is Very Tight
The oil filter installed at the factory is extremely tight. Many owners need a screwdriver through the end for leverage on the first change. Having a proper filter wrench saves significant time and frustration.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Consider 3,000-4,000 Mile Intervals for Turbo
Unlike naturally aspirated engines, turbos run much hotter. Oil degrades faster because it's used to both lubricate and cool the turbocharger. Many experienced owners are using shorter intervals (3-4k miles or 6 months) rather than the manufacturer's 10k mile recommendation.
Source: Tacoma4G.com
Prevent Drain Pan Splashing
Multiple owners report that oil hits the drain pan and splashes onto the ground during draining. Solution: Place a filter mat or cardboard in the bottom of the drain pan to absorb impact and prevent splashing.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Don't Forget the Skid Plates
The 4th Gen Tacoma has TWO skid plates that must be removed before accessing the drain plug and filter (4 bolts each). First-time DIYers may not realize both need to come off.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Use OEM Toyota Oil Filter
While the manual doesn't mandate OEM filters, the community strongly recommends using Toyota part #90915-YZZN1 (the "N1 filter"). Turbo engines are sensitive to oil filtration quality. Turbocharger bearings can fail if debris isn't properly filtered.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Turbo Cool-Down Best Practice
After extended highway driving, towing, or spirited driving, let the engine idle for 30-60 seconds before shutting off. This allows cooler oil to circulate through the turbo bearings and prevents "coking" (oil carbonization inside the turbo).
Community Best Practice
Any oil meeting ILSAC GF-6A specification will work. Here are community-recommended brands:
Premium Options:
Budget-Friendly:
Alternative Synthetics:
OEM Filter:
Toyota Part #90915-YZZN1 (N1 Filter) - universally recommended regardless of oil brand chosen
Sources: 4thGenTacoma.com, Tacoma4G.com
Q: Is oil consumption normal for the T24A-FTS engine?
A: Yes. Early reports show no widespread oil consumption issues from 4th Gen Tacoma owners in the first year. Oil consumption of up to 1 quart per 1,000-1,500 miles can be normal for turbocharged engines during break-in or severe use. Most owners report oil level remaining stable between changes.
Q: How often should I check my oil?
A: Check weekly for new vehicles (to establish consumption baseline), every other fuel fill-up for broken-in vehicles, and more frequently if towing, off-roading, or driving in extreme heat.
Q: Can I mix synthetic and conventional oil?
A: Not ideal, but won't cause damage. Use full synthetic 0W-20 for best results. If you must top off with a different brand, use the same viscosity (0W-20) and ILSAC GF-6A specification.
Q: What does the low-tension piston ring design mean?
A: The T24A-FTS engine uses low-tension piston rings (for fuel economy). This design benefits from more frequent oil changes compared to the manufacturer's 10,000 mile recommendation. The rings are thinner and allow slightly more combustion gases into the crankcase, accelerating oil degradation.
Q: How long will the T24A-FTS engine last?
A: Early assessments predict reliability up to 170,000+ miles with proper maintenance. This is consistent with Toyota's reputation for durable turbocharged engines.
Q: What if my oil level keeps rising?
A: Oil level rise (fuel dilution) occurs with short trips in cold weather. Solution: Take periodic highway drives to fully warm the engine. If oil smells like gasoline or appears milky (coolant contamination), visit your Toyota dealer immediately.
This thread synthesizes information from:
Pages 524-526: Oil checking and adding procedures
Page 615: Complete oil specifications
For the complete procedures and diagrams, consult these pages in your 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (Document: OM04041U).
Owner's Manual Pages:
Additional Sources:
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from the owner community and automotive sources. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only, not a substitute for professional service when needed.
Running low can cause catastrophic turbo or engine damage within seconds. Here's how to check it properly and what you need to know about adding oil.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 524-526, 615)
What's Covered:
- How to properly check engine oil level (6-step dipstick procedure)
- When and how to add oil safely
- Complete oil specifications for the T24A-FTS engine
- Resetting the maintenance reminder after oil changes
- Understanding oil consumption and level variations
- Community tips from 4th Gen Tacoma owners
Checking Engine Oil, Adding Oil, Oil Dipstick
Tools and Materials:
- Clean, lint-free rag or shop towel
- Clean funnel (for adding oil)
- Toyota Genuine Motor Oil 0W-20 or equivalent ILSAC GF-6A oil
Time Estimate: 5-10 minutes for checking; 2-3 minutes for adding oil
Skill Level: Beginner (no special tools required)
Conditions:
- Vehicle on level surface
- Engine at operating temperature OR cooled down (see procedure notes)
Part 1: Checking Engine Oil Level
Follow these six steps carefully to ensure accurate oil level reading.
Step-by-Step Procedure:
- Park the vehicle on level ground.
Even a slight incline will give you a false reading on the dipstick. Find a flat, level surface before checking.
- Determine engine temperature condition.
The manual specifies two acceptable conditions:
Option A (Recommended): Warm up the engine to operating temperature, then turn off the engine and wait about 5 minutes for oil to drain back into the oil pan.
Option B: Check with engine completely cold (first thing in morning before starting).
Note: The "warm engine + 5 minute wait" method gives the most accurate reading because all oil has drained from internal passages. Checking a cold engine works too, but may show slightly higher than actual running level.
- Locate the engine oil level dipstick
The dipstick is located in the engine compartment. See the engine compartment diagram in your manual for exact location.
- Holding a rag under the end, pull the dipstick out.
The rag catches any oil drips to keep your engine bay clean.
- Wipe the dipstick clean.
Use a clean, lint-free rag. This removes the oil film from the dipstick so you can get a fresh reading.
- Reinsert the dipstick fully.
Push it all the way in until it seats completely. This ensures accurate measurement.
- Holding a rag under the end, pull the dipstick out and check the oil level.
Look at the dipstick. There are two marks:- Low level mark (minimum)
- Refill upper limit mark (maximum)
Interpreting the Reading:- Oil level AT or ABOVE the low level mark = OK
- Oil level BELOW the low level mark = Add oil (proceed to Part 2)
- Oil level BETWEEN low and refill upper limit = Good
- Oil level ABOVE refill upper limit = Overfilled (contact Toyota dealer)
Note: The shape of the dipstick may differ depending on the type of vehicle or engine.
- Wipe the dipstick and reinsert it fully.
Return the dipstick to its tube and ensure it's fully seated.
Understanding Engine Oil Consumption
A certain amount of engine oil will be consumed while driving. This is normal.
When oil consumption may increase:
- When the engine is new (directly after purchasing the vehicle or after replacing the engine)
- If low quality oil or oil of inappropriate viscosity is used
- When driving at high engine speeds or with heavy load, when towing, or when accelerating/decelerating frequently
- When leaving the engine idling for a long time, or when driving frequently through heavy traffic
Turbo Engine Note: Turbocharged engines like the T24A-FTS consume slightly more oil than naturally aspirated engines due to higher operating temperatures and turbo lubrication. Consumption of up to 1 quart per 1,000-1,500 miles can be normal during break-in or severe use.
Understanding Engine Oil Level Rise
If you repeatedly drive short distances without the engine warming up fully, moisture from condensation inside the engine or unburned fuel can mix into engine oil, causing oil level to rise. This is NOT a malfunction.
Conditions where engine doesn't warm up fully:
- Driving short distances
- Driving at low speeds
- When outside temperature is low
What to do: When checking engine oil, make sure the engine is warmed up. If the engine oil level exceeds the refill upper limit mark, contact your Toyota dealer.
Note: This is called "fuel dilution" and is common in cold climates with short trips. The solution is periodic highway driving to fully warm the engine and evaporate contaminants.
Part 2: Adding Engine Oil
When to Add Oil:
If the oil level is below or near the low level mark, add engine oil of the same type as that already in the engine.
Oil Specifications
Oil Capacity (Drain and refill):
- With filter: 5.9 qt. (5.6 L, 4.9 Imp. qt.)
- Without filter: 5.6 qt. (5.3 L, 4.7 Imp. qt.)
Oil Quantity (Low level mark to Refill upper limit mark):
1.5 qt. (1.4 L, 1.2 Imp.qt.)
Oil Grade Required:
ILSAC GF-6A multigrade engine oil
Recommended Viscosity:
SAE 0W-20 (best choice for fuel economy and cold weather starting)
Alternate Viscosity (Emergency Only):
SAE 5W-20 oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-20 at the next oil change.
Why 0W-20 Matters:
The T24A-FTS turbocharged engine requires 0W-20 for best fuel economy and turbocharger protection. The "0W" winter rating ensures proper flow at cold startup (critical for turbo bearing lubrication). Using heavier oil like 5W-30 may reduce fuel economy and could affect Variable Valve Timing (VVT) operation.
Adding Oil Procedure
- Remove the oil filler cap by turning it counterclockwise.
The oil filler cap is located on top of the engine (see your manual's engine compartment diagram).
- Add engine oil slowly, checking the dipstick.
Use a clean funnel to avoid spills. Add oil in small increments (1/4 to 1/2 quart at a time), then recheck the dipstick using the checking procedure from Part 1.
Important: Make sure that the oil level does NOT exceed the refill upper limit mark and IS between the low level mark and refill upper limit mark.
Pro Tip: It's better to add too little and recheck than to overfill. Overfilling can cause oil aeration, foaming, and can damage engine seals or catalytic converter.
- Install the oil filler cap by turning it clockwise.
Make sure the cap is fully tightened. A loose cap can cause oil leaks or trigger a check engine light (EVAP system leak code).
Part 3: Resetting Maintenance Reminder
When to Reset:
After changing the engine oil (not after just topping off), the engine oil maintenance data should be reset.
Reset Procedure (Vehicles with 7-inch Display):
- Press ↑ or ↓ of the meter control switch to select ⚙
- Press ↑ or ↓ to select "Vehicle Settings" and then press and hold ✓
- Press ↑/↓ to select "Oil Maintenance" and then press ✓
- Press ↑/↓ to select "Yes" and then press ✓
This confirms the reset. The maintenance reminder will clear and begin counting from zero.
Note: This reset procedure is for the oil change interval tracker only. It does NOT reset other maintenance reminders (tire rotation, cabin filter, etc.). Those have separate reset procedures. For vehicles with larger displays (8-inch or 14-inch), the procedure may differ slightly. Consult the manual section on Multi-Information Display settings.
Community Tips from 4th Gen Tacoma Owners
Early First Oil Change Recommended (2,700-3,000 miles)
Many 4th Gen Tacoma owners are doing the first oil change much earlier than the manual's 10,000 mile recommendation. The T24A-FTS turbo engine benefits from early removal of break-in contaminants. Oil analysis shows factory oil is high-quality, but owners still prefer early first change for break-in metal removal.
Source: Tacoma4G.com
Prefill the New Oil Filter
Pour fresh oil into the new filter until it stops absorbing (usually about 2/3 full). This reduces dry-start time when the engine first fires up after the change.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Factory Filter is Very Tight
The oil filter installed at the factory is extremely tight. Many owners need a screwdriver through the end for leverage on the first change. Having a proper filter wrench saves significant time and frustration.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Consider 3,000-4,000 Mile Intervals for Turbo
Unlike naturally aspirated engines, turbos run much hotter. Oil degrades faster because it's used to both lubricate and cool the turbocharger. Many experienced owners are using shorter intervals (3-4k miles or 6 months) rather than the manufacturer's 10k mile recommendation.
Source: Tacoma4G.com
Prevent Drain Pan Splashing
Multiple owners report that oil hits the drain pan and splashes onto the ground during draining. Solution: Place a filter mat or cardboard in the bottom of the drain pan to absorb impact and prevent splashing.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Don't Forget the Skid Plates
The 4th Gen Tacoma has TWO skid plates that must be removed before accessing the drain plug and filter (4 bolts each). First-time DIYers may not realize both need to come off.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Use OEM Toyota Oil Filter
While the manual doesn't mandate OEM filters, the community strongly recommends using Toyota part #90915-YZZN1 (the "N1 filter"). Turbo engines are sensitive to oil filtration quality. Turbocharger bearings can fail if debris isn't properly filtered.
Source: 4GTaco.com
Turbo Cool-Down Best Practice
After extended highway driving, towing, or spirited driving, let the engine idle for 30-60 seconds before shutting off. This allows cooler oil to circulate through the turbo bearings and prevents "coking" (oil carbonization inside the turbo).
Community Best Practice
Recommended Oil Brands (ILSAC GF-6A Certified)
Any oil meeting ILSAC GF-6A specification will work. Here are community-recommended brands:
Premium Options:
- Amsoil Signature Series 0W-20 (frequently ranks highest in oil comparisons)
- Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 0W-20 (made from natural gas with PurePlus Technology)
- Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy 0W-20 (popular among owners)
- RAVENOL or Eurol 0W-20 (used by Toyota racing and Dakar teams)
Budget-Friendly:
- Kirkland (Costco) 0W-20 (~$38 for two 5-quart bottles, Dexos certified, excellent value)
Alternative Synthetics:
- Valvoline EP (Extended Performance) 0W-20
- Havoline Lifelong 0W-20
OEM Filter:
Toyota Part #90915-YZZN1 (N1 Filter) - universally recommended regardless of oil brand chosen
Sources: 4thGenTacoma.com, Tacoma4G.com
Common Questions
Q: Is oil consumption normal for the T24A-FTS engine?
A: Yes. Early reports show no widespread oil consumption issues from 4th Gen Tacoma owners in the first year. Oil consumption of up to 1 quart per 1,000-1,500 miles can be normal for turbocharged engines during break-in or severe use. Most owners report oil level remaining stable between changes.
Q: How often should I check my oil?
A: Check weekly for new vehicles (to establish consumption baseline), every other fuel fill-up for broken-in vehicles, and more frequently if towing, off-roading, or driving in extreme heat.
Q: Can I mix synthetic and conventional oil?
A: Not ideal, but won't cause damage. Use full synthetic 0W-20 for best results. If you must top off with a different brand, use the same viscosity (0W-20) and ILSAC GF-6A specification.
Q: What does the low-tension piston ring design mean?
A: The T24A-FTS engine uses low-tension piston rings (for fuel economy). This design benefits from more frequent oil changes compared to the manufacturer's 10,000 mile recommendation. The rings are thinner and allow slightly more combustion gases into the crankcase, accelerating oil degradation.
Q: How long will the T24A-FTS engine last?
A: Early assessments predict reliability up to 170,000+ miles with proper maintenance. This is consistent with Toyota's reputation for durable turbocharged engines.
Q: What if my oil level keeps rising?
A: Oil level rise (fuel dilution) occurs with short trips in cold weather. Solution: Take periodic highway drives to fully warm the engine. If oil smells like gasoline or appears milky (coolant contamination), visit your Toyota dealer immediately.
Manual Pages Reference
This thread synthesizes information from:
Pages 524-526: Oil checking and adding procedures
Page 615: Complete oil specifications
For the complete procedures and diagrams, consult these pages in your 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (Document: OM04041U).
Source Attribution
Owner's Manual Pages:
- Primary procedure: Pages 524-526
- Specifications: Page 615
Additional Sources:
- Tacoma4G.com (4th Gen Tacoma Forum)
- TacomaWorld.com (Toyota Tacoma Community)
- 4GTaco.com (4th Gen Tacoma Forum)
- 4thGenTacoma.com (4th Gen Tacoma Forum)
- BobIsTheOilGuy.com (Oil Technical Forum)
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from the owner community and automotive sources. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only, not a substitute for professional service when needed.
