Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Oil in a 2021 V6 Toyota Tacoma
This guide is designed to help amateur mechanics with some basic knowledge of car maintenance to change the oil in their 2021 V6 Toyota Tacoma. It is essential to follow the recommended procedures and precautions to ensure the longevity of the vehicle and the safety of the person performing the task.
Necessary Materials and Tools
The following materials and tools are required to change the oil in a 2021 V6 Toyota Tacoma:
- Oil filter wrench (compatible with Toyota 90915-YZZD3 oil filter)
- Socket wrench or ratchet and socket (32 mm)
- Drain pan (large enough to hold 6 quarts of oil)
- New oil filter (Toyota 90915-YZZD3 or equivalent)
- Oil filler cap
- Oil dipstick
- Funnel
- Wheel chocks (for safety)
- Ramps or jack stands (for lifting the vehicle)
- New motor oil (6 quarts, Toyota recommends 0W-20 or 5W-20 viscosity)
Recommended Oil Viscosity and Capacity
According to the Toyota Tacoma's repair manual, the recommended oil viscosity for a 2021 V6 model is 0W-20 or 5W-20. The oil capacity is 6 quarts (5.7 liters) with a new oil filter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Warm up the engine: Drive the vehicle for a few minutes to warm up the engine. This will help the oil drain more easily.
- Find a level surface and apply the parking brake: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Locate the oil drain plug: The oil drain plug is located at the bottom of the engine, near the front of the car. It is on the driver's side, just behind the oil pan.
- Jack up the vehicle: Raise the vehicle using ramps or jack stands to give clearance for the oil drain pan. Make sure the vehicle is stable and on level ground.
- Remove the oil drain plug: Use a socket wrench or ratchet and socket to remove the oil drain plug. Be prepared for the oil to start draining out.
- Drain the oil into a pan: Allow the oil to drain into the pan for several minutes. Once the flow slows down, replace the oil drain plug and tighten it to the specified torque (30 ft-lbs).
- Remove the oil filter: Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter. Be careful not to spill any oil when removing the filter.
- Install a new oil filter: Place a new oil filter on the engine and hand tighten it.
- Refill the oil: Use a funnel to pour in the new oil. Refer to the Toyota Tacoma's repair manual for the correct oil filler cap location. The recommended oil is 6 quarts (5.7 liters) of 0W-20 or 5W-20 viscosity oil.
- Replace the oil filler cap: Once the new oil is in, replace the oil filler cap and start the engine. Let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
- Check for leaks: Turn off the engine and check for any leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter.
- Dispose of the used oil and filter: Take the used oil and filter to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil and filters. Do not dispose of them in the trash or down the drain.
Precautions and Considerations
When changing the oil in a 2021 V6 Toyota Tacoma, keep in mind the following precautions and considerations:
- Always wear protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses, when working with oil and tools.
- Make sure the vehicle is on a level surface and apply the parking brake before starting the job.
- Use a drain pan that is large enough to hold 6 quarts of oil to avoid spills.
- Refer to the Toyota Tacoma's repair manual for specific instructions and precautions.
- Properly dispose of the used oil and filter to protect the environment.