2024+ Tacoma - Engine Oil Specs (Capacity & Viscosity)

[4gtacoadmin]

Engine oil might seem like a simple detail, but getting it right affects fuel economy, cold-start reliability, and engine longevity - especially with a turbocharged engine. Here's exactly what your 4th Gen Tacoma needs and why it matters.

(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 615 & 524)

Tacoma Engine Oil: Capacity, Viscosity & 0W-20 Specs​

Engine Oil Capacity​

The engine oil capacity is a reference quantity to be used when changing the engine oil. When actually adding the engine oil, 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 (refer to page 524 for dipstick markings). Warm up and turn off the engine, wait about 8 minutes, and check the oil level on the dipstick.

Lubrication System Capacity:

• With filter: 5.9 quarts (5.6 L, 4.9 Imp. qt.)
• Without filter: 5.6 quarts (5.3 L, 4.7 Imp. qt.)

Source: Owner's Manual page 615

Engine Oil Selection​

Your Tacoma uses "Toyota Genuine Motor Oil," but here's what matters: you need ILSAC GF-6A multigrade oil at SAE 0W-20 viscosity. Toyota Genuine Oil meets this, and so do many quality alternatives that carry GF-6A certification.

Oil Grade Requirement:
ILSAC GF-6A multigrade engine oil

Recommended Viscosity:
SAE 0W-20

Operating Temperature Guidance:
SAE 0W-20 is the best choice for good fuel economy and good starting in cold weather.

Temporary Alternate Option:
If SAE 0W-20 is not available, SAE 5W-20 oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-20 at the next oil change.

Source: Owner's Manual page 615

Understanding Oil Viscosity​

What "0W-20" Means:

The "0W" in 0W-20 indicates the cold start viscosity rating, which determines how well the oil flows at low temperatures. The "W" stands for "Winter." A 0W rating means your oil will flow exceptionally well in cold weather, enabling smooth engine starting.

The "20" indicates the hot viscosity rating, which represents the oil's thickness at normal operating temperature. This rating ensures adequate protection when the engine reaches operating temperature.

Source: Owner's Manual page 615

Real-World Context​

Why SAE 0W-20 for the T24A-FTS Engine​

The T24A-FTS turbocharged engine in your 4th Gen Tacoma is specifically engineered for SAE 0W-20 viscosity:

• Cold Start Performance: The 0W rating enables reliable cold-weather starting, particularly important for northern climates and high-altitude operation where thin oil is critical.
  
• Fuel Economy Optimization: The lighter weight reduces internal engine friction, directly supporting the i-FORCE MAX efficiency targets and your vehicle's fuel economy potential.
  
• Turbocharger Protection: Modern turbocharged engines require robust oil film strength at operating temperature. The 20-weight rating provides this protection while maintaining cold-flow properties.
  
• ILSAC GF-6A Standard: This is Toyota's current specification for modern gasoline engines, ensuring advanced detergent packages and emission system compatibility.

About That 5W-20 Alternate​

The manual allows SAE 5W-20 for temporary use, reflecting real-world dealer practice and emergency situations:

• You may encounter situations where 0W-20 is unavailable (winter emergency, travel).
  
• The heavier 5W cold rating will be slightly sluggish in extreme cold but acceptable short-term.
  
• Critical: The manual's mandate to replace with 0W-20 at the next service is not optional. Prolonged use of 5W-20 will gradually reduce fuel economy and increase cold-start strain on your engine.

OEM Specification Precision​

Toyota's emphasis on "Toyota Genuine Motor Oil" or equivalent to satisfy the grade and viscosity reflects important engineering precision:

• Not all aftermarket oils meet ILSAC GF-6A exactly. Some are GF-5 or older standards.
  
• The "or equivalent" clause allows quality alternatives (Mobil 1, Castrol EDGE, Redline, Pennzoil Platinum) provided they carry ILSAC GF-6A certification.
  
• Synthetic vs. conventional: Either is acceptable if it meets ILSAC GF-6A and SAE 0W-20. Toyota Genuine Motor Oil is fully synthetic; many aftermarket brands offer equivalent formulations.

Common Questions​

Q: Can I use 5W-30 or 10W-30?
A: No. Toyota specifically engineered the T24A-FTS for 0W-20. Using a heavier weight will reduce fuel economy, increase cold-start wear, and may void warranty coverage.

Q: What's the difference between "with filter" and "without filter" capacity?
A: The drain-and-refill quantity (5.9 qt with new filter) is what you need for routine oil changes. The "without filter" amount (5.6 qt) represents engine oil only, used to understand what stays in the engine when you change the filter separately.

Q: Can I use synthetic oil?
A: Yes, any ILSAC GF-6A synthetic, semi-synthetic, or conventional oil is acceptable. Toyota Genuine Motor Oil is fully synthetic; many aftermarket brands offer ILSAC GF-6A certified equivalents.

Source Attribution​

Owner's Manual Pages:

• Engine oil capacity: Page 615 (Section 8-1, Specifications)
• Engine oil selection: Page 615 (Section 8-1, Specifications)
• Oil level checking reference: Page 524 (Section 6-3, Do-it-yourself Maintenance)
• Oil viscosity explanation: Page 615 (Section 8-1, Specifications)

Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from Toyota engineering specifications and owner community experience. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only. Verify all specifications against your vehicle's owner's manual before performing any maintenance.

Toyota Genuine Motor Oil and all product references are trademarks of Toyota Motor Corporation. This forum is independently operated and not affiliated with Toyota, Inc.