Toyota Tacoma Oil Type
Recommended Oil Types for the Toyota Tacoma: What You Should Know
If you're a Toyota Tacoma owner or shopper trying to stay on top of maintenance, one of the most important questions you'll face is: What kind of oil does the Tacoma use? The answer depends on your model year and engine type, but there’s also a growing trend in the shift toward lighter synthetic oils. At Keith Pierson Toyota, we’ve put together this guide to help you understand what oil Toyota recommends for the Tacoma—both in the latest models and going back several generations.
Toyota’s Official Recommendations by Generation
First and Second Generations (1995–2015)
Tacomas from the late '90s through 2015 typically used either the 2.7L four-cylinder or the 4.0L V6 engine. For most of these models, Toyota originally recommended 5W-30 motor oil. This was especially common in earlier years and was widely accepted as a go-to oil weight for colder climates and traditional engine builds.
However, as synthetic oil technology evolved, Toyota began recommending 0W-20 synthetic oil for many of these same engines. Even for older Tacomas, this lighter oil can offer improved fuel efficiency and cold-weather performance. It’s worth noting that some of the owner’s manuals included a disclaimer: if you use a heavier oil like 5W-20, you should switch back to 0W-20 at your next oil change.
This shift is part of a broader industry trend toward lighter, more efficient oils that still protect engine components under a wide range of conditions.
Third Generation (2016–2022)
For the third-generation Tacoma, which includes both the 2.7L four-cylinder and the 3.5L V6 engines, Toyota officially recommends SAE 0W-20 full synthetic oil. This oil must meet ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6A standards, and it’s what you’ll find on the oil cap and in the owner’s manual.
While Toyota allows for temporary use of 5W-20 if 0W-20 isn’t available, it’s important to return to the correct oil at your next scheduled oil change. Synthetic oils like 0W-20 are designed to reduce friction and extend engine life, all while helping maintain better fuel economy.
Toyota also recommends an oil change interval of 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. But if you do a lot of towing, off-roading, or drive in dusty or dirty environments, it's a good idea to shorten that interval to every 5,000 miles.
Fourth Generation (2023 and Beyond)
The latest Toyota Tacoma models, including new hybrid and turbocharged engines, continue to follow the 0W-20 full synthetic oil recommendation. While Toyota hasn’t drastically changed its oil specs for the newest generation, these modern powertrains benefit even more from high-quality synthetic oil, particularly for maintaining performance and protecting engine components under stress.
Again, 0W-20 synthetic oil that meets GF-6A standards is your best bet. These new Tacomas are designed for improved efficiency, so using the right oil will help your vehicle deliver on that promise.
Real-World Insights from Tacoma Owners
Across various Toyota Tacoma forums and communities, many owners confirm what Toyota recommends—0W-20 synthetic is the standard. Most Tacoma drivers stick with top-tier brands like Mobil 1, Valvoline, or Toyota OEM oil.
Some owners of older models still use 5W-30 or 0W-30 in certain driving conditions, especially where added engine protection might be needed. But even for Tacomas built before 2010, the transition to 0W-20 is considered safe—and often beneficial—for most U.S. driving conditions.
It’s also common to hear from drivers who change their oil more frequently than the manual suggests, especially if they tow, off-road, or drive in hot, humid, or dusty climates. That peace of mind is worth the added maintenance for many Tacoma owners.
Quick Reference Guide
| Model Year Range | Engine Types | Recommended Oil | Alternate (Temporary) Use | Change Interval (Normal/Severe) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1995–2015 | 2.7L I4 / 4.0L V6 | 5W-30 (original), 0W-20 (updated) | 5W-20 okay short-term | 5,000 miles / 6 months |
| 2016–2022 | 2.7L I4 / 3.5L V6 | 0W-20 synthetic | 5W-20 once, then revert | 10,000 miles / 5,000 severe use |
| 2023+ | 2.4L Turbo / Hybrid Powertrains | 0W-20 synthetic | Not recommended | 10,000 miles / 5,000 severe use |
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best oil for your Tacoma depends on your model year, driving habits, and climate. But sticking to Toyota’s official recommendation of 0W-20 synthetic oil is the safest and most efficient choice across most Tacoma models, especially the third and fourth generations.
Whether you're servicing your Tacoma at home or bringing it in to our expert technicians at Keith Pierson Toyota, you can rest easy knowing you’re using oil that meets or exceeds Toyota’s performance standards.
Have questions or ready for your next oil change? Our team is here to help keep your Tacoma running strong for years to come.