2nd gen Tacoma (1GR-FE 4.0L) holds 5.5 quarts of 5W-30. 3rd gen (2GR-FKS 3.5L) holds 6.2 quarts of 0W-20 full synthetic. Both use the same cartridge oil filter. Drain plug torque 30 ft-lb, filter housing 18 ft-lb.
The Tacoma's V6 engines share the same oil change procedure across two generations — but viscosity changed when the 3rd gen arrived in 2016 with the 2GR-FKS direct-injected V6. The 2nd gen 4.0L runs 5W-30 conventional or synthetic; the 3rd gen 3.5L requires 0W-20 full synthetic.
**3rd gen oil spec.** The 2GR-FKS uses dual injection (port and direct) and requires 0W-20 to meet the close clearances and ensure fast oil pressure at cold start. Some owners run 5W-30 in hot climates to quiet timing chain noise — Toyota allows this in their hot-climate TSB without voiding warranty. Phoenix, Tucson, and Vegas owners can safely run 5W-30 synthetic in summer.
**Cartridge filter location.** Same setup as the 4Runner: filter housing on the bottom of the engine with a built-in drain valve. The Toyota OEM filter kit (04152-YZZA1) includes both O-rings (large for the cover, small for the drain valve plug) and a small plastic drain tool that threads into the housing bottom to route oil into your pan without spraying.
**Cap socket.** 64mm 14-flute. Steel only — the aluminum versions strip teeth.
**Stock skid plate.** Both gens have a cutout in the front skid that gives access to the filter and drain without dropping the skid. Aftermarket plate-style skids (RCI, Tactica, BAMF) keep this access; some budget skids do not.
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| 0W-20 full synthetic (3rd gen 2GR-FKS, 6.2 qt) | Toyota / API SP equivalent | ~$38 |
| 5W-30 (2nd gen 1GR-FE, 5.5 qt) | any API SN+ rated | ~$28 |
| Toyota cartridge filter kit (1GR-FE and 2GR-FKS) | Toyota | ~$8 |
| Drain plug crush washer | Toyota | ~$1 |
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.