Toyota Camry Oil Type
What Kind of Oil Does the Toyota Camry Use?
If you're driving a Toyota Camry—or thinking about buying one—you may be wondering what kind of oil is best for keeping it running smoothly. The answer depends on which model year and engine your Camry has, but the good news is that Toyota has made it fairly simple to follow once you know where your car fits in the timeline. Whether you’re changing your oil yourself or planning to bring your vehicle into our service center at Keith Pierson Toyota, this guide will help clarify which oil to use and why it matters.
Let’s walk through the different engine types, model generations, and what Toyota officially recommends—along with some real-world advice from longtime Camry drivers.
Early to Mid-2000s Camrys (2002–2011)
During this era, the Camry was most commonly available with either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 3.0- to 3.3-liter V6 engine. At the time, Toyota’s owner manuals typically recommended 5W-30 conventional or synthetic oil. This viscosity was considered a solid, reliable choice, especially for vehicles operating in warmer climates or under heavy use.
As synthetic oils became more widely adopted in the late 2000s, Toyota began transitioning to lighter oil grades such as 0W-20. This was especially true in newer trims toward the end of this generation. For owners with older Camrys, switching to 0W-20 synthetic is generally safe—and often beneficial—especially if you’re aiming for improved fuel economy or you live in a colder climate. However, if your vehicle is high mileage or operating in very hot conditions, some drivers still prefer sticking with 5W-30 for the added engine protection.
2012 to 2017 Camrys
By the time the 2012 Camry rolled out, Toyota had officially standardized 0W-20 full synthetic oil for most models, including the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and the 3.5-liter V6 engines. This switch wasn’t just about modernizing engine design—it also came with performance benefits. 0W-20 synthetic oil flows more easily during cold starts, helps reduce engine friction, and contributes to better fuel economy across the board.
Toyota’s maintenance schedule during this generation recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles or 12 months under normal driving conditions. But if you’re doing frequent short trips, driving in stop-and-go traffic, or dealing with extreme temperatures, it’s a good idea to change your oil closer to the 5,000-mile mark.
Many Camry drivers have reported smoother engine performance and improved gas mileage after switching to 0W-20, especially when coming from older oil types like 5W-30. And since synthetic oils hold up better over time, you're also protecting your engine in the long run.
2018 to 2024 Camrys (Current Generation)
The most recent generation of the Camry brought another shift in oil recommendations, at least for certain engines. For four-cylinder Camry models (including the popular 2.5-liter engine), Toyota now recommends 0W-16 full synthetic oil. This is an even thinner oil than 0W-20 and was introduced to help improve fuel efficiency while still offering adequate engine protection.
If your Camry has the available 3.5-liter V6 engine, the recommendation remains 0W-20, just like the previous generation. Both oil types must meet current industry standards (such as ILSAC GF-6A), and it’s important to make sure your oil meets these specifications, especially when buying it off the shelf.
It’s worth noting that while 0W-16 is the official recommendation for newer four-cylinder models, some drivers still prefer using 0W-20 for extra wear protection—especially in warmer climates or high-mileage vehicles. Just make sure to check with a certified technician before making any changes outside the manufacturer’s guidelines.
2025 and Newer Camrys
As we move into the newest Camry models, Toyota is continuing to innovate with fuel-efficient powertrains and hybrid technology. There are early signs that some upcoming models may start recommending even lighter oils like 0W-8. While this might sound unusual, these ultra-low viscosity oils are part of a broader industry trend toward reducing internal friction and boosting mileage.
At the moment, the majority of new Camrys are still built around 0W-16 or 0W-20, depending on the engine. If you’re unsure which one your Camry uses, you can check the oil cap, look in the owner’s manual, or speak with one of our technicians. If 0W-8 becomes standard in the future, Toyota will make that change clear in all service documentation—and we’ll be ready to help you make the switch properly.
Real-World Advice from Camry Owners
Over the years, we’ve heard a lot from Camry drivers who’ve experimented with different oil types—especially those with older vehicles. Some prefer sticking with 5W-30 for high-mileage Camrys, arguing that the thicker oil helps reduce engine noise and oil consumption. Others report better fuel efficiency and smoother performance after switching to synthetic 0W-20 or 0W-16.
If you drive a newer Camry, it's a good idea to follow Toyota's latest oil recommendations. These oils are designed to match the engine's internal tolerances and operating temperatures, and sticking with what’s listed in the manual helps protect your vehicle and maintain warranty coverage.
Quick Reference Chart
| Model Years | Engine Types | Recommended Oil | Alternate Oils (Short-Term) | Suggested Change Interval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002–2011 | 2.4L I4, 3.0–3.3L V6 | 5W-30, then 0W-20 | 10W-30 or 10W-40 if needed | Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles |
| 2012–2017 | 2.5L I4, 3.5L V6 | 0W-20 synthetic | 5W-30 in certain climates | Every 10,000 miles (5,000 severe use) |
| 2018–2024 | 2.5L I4, 3.5L V6 | 0W-16 (I4), 0W-20 (V6) | N/A | Every 10,000 miles (5,000 severe use) |
| 2025+ | Likely hybrid or advanced 4-cyl | 0W-8 (emerging), 0W-16 or 0W-20 | N/A | TBD, likely similar to previous years |
Let Our Team Help Keep Your Camry Running Strong
When it comes to routine maintenance, using the correct oil is one of the simplest and most important things you can do to protect your investment. Whether you’re driving a high-mileage 2007 Camry or a brand-new hybrid model, the technicians at Keith Pierson Toyota are here to help. We use Toyota-approved full synthetic oils, and we can guide you on the right oil change intervals for your lifestyle and driving habits.
Need to schedule an oil change or just have questions about which oil is right for your Camry? Contact our service team or book your appointment online today.