The Toyota Tacoma is a legend in the mid-size truck world, renowned for its rugged capability and bulletproof reliability. A key part of maintaining that legendary status, especially for the sophisticated 3.5-liter V6 engine found in the 2016 model, is performing regular and correct oil changes. It’s the lifeblood of your engine, and getting it right is non-negotiable. If you’re standing in your garage or the auto parts store aisle, you’re likely asking one critical question: exactly how much oil does my 2016 Tacoma V6 need?
You’ve come to the right place. This guide will not only give you the precise oil capacity but will also walk you through every detail you need to know to service your truck like a pro. We’ll cover the specific type of oil, the correct filter, and a detailed process for a do-it-yourself oil change.
The Exact Oil Capacity for Your 2016 Toyota Tacoma 3.5L V6
Let’s get straight to the point. The amount of oil your truck needs depends on one simple factor: whether or not you are changing the oil filter. Since changing the filter during every oil change is a universally accepted best practice for engine health, you should almost always use the higher capacity figure.
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine (engine code: 2GR-FKS) requires 6.1 U.S. quarts of new engine oil when you also replace the oil filter. If for some reason you were to perform an oil change without replacing the filter, the capacity would be slightly less, at 5.7 U.S. quarts.
To be absolutely clear, here are the official specifications from Toyota presented in a simple table.
| Service Performed | Required Oil Capacity (U.S. Quarts) |
|---|---|
| Engine oil change with new oil filter | 6.1 quarts |
| Engine oil change without new oil filter | 5.7 quarts |
Always plan on using the 6.1-quart capacity. The oil filter traps harmful contaminants and microscopic metal particles, and leaving an old, saturated filter in place with fresh oil would be like taking a shower and putting your dirty clothes back on. It defeats much of the purpose of the oil change. Therefore, it’s wise to purchase seven quarts of oil to ensure you have enough for the fill and a little extra for potential top-offs between services.
More Than Just Quarts: Choosing the Right Oil Type is Essential
Pouring the correct amount of the wrong oil is just as detrimental as not putting in enough. The 2GR-FKS V6 in your 2016 Tacoma is a modern, precisely engineered powerplant with advanced systems like VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence Wide). These systems rely on a specific type and viscosity of oil to function correctly.
Viscosity Matters: The Critical Role of SAE 0W-20
Your 2016 Tacoma V6 requires a very specific oil viscosity: SAE 0W-20. This is not a suggestion; it’s a requirement for optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and long-term engine protection. Let’s briefly break down what that code means.
The “0W” refers to the oil’s viscosity (or thickness) in cold temperatures. The “0” indicates that it has very low viscosity and flows exceptionally well when your engine is cold, which is crucial for reducing wear during startups. The “20” represents the oil’s viscosity once the engine has reached its full operating temperature. The thinner 0W-20 oil creates less internal friction, or “drag,” within the engine, which is a key reason Toyota specifies it to achieve the truck’s designed fuel economy and power output.
Using a heavier oil, like 5W-30 or 10W-30, can impede the function of the VVT-i system, potentially leading to rough idling, decreased performance, and even check engine lights over time. Stick with full synthetic SAE 0W-20 oil.
Synthetic is Not an Option, It’s the Standard
For this engine, you must use a full synthetic oil. Conventional oils cannot provide the level of protection, thermal stability, and cleanliness required by the Tacoma’s V6. Synthetic oil is engineered to resist breakdown at high temperatures, prevent the formation of sludge, and provide superior lubrication over a longer period.
When purchasing oil, look for bottles that are labeled “Full Synthetic” and meet or exceed the standards of the American Petroleum Institute (API). For a 2016 vehicle, you should look for an oil with an API service rating of “SN” or the more recent “SP” classification. These certifications ensure the oil has passed rigorous tests for quality and performance.
The Unsung Hero: Selecting the Correct Oil Filter
The third piece of the puzzle is the oil filter. Unlike many older vehicles that use a simple spin-on metal canister, your 2016 Tacoma V6 uses a more modern cartridge-style filter system. This means you replace only the internal paper filter element and a couple of rubber O-rings, reducing waste.
The filter is located inside a permanent plastic or composite housing on the front of the engine. The genuine Toyota OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part is widely recommended for its quality and precise fit.
The Toyota part number for the oil filter kit for your 2016 Tacoma V6 is: Toyota Part No. 04152-YZZA5.
This kit typically includes the filter element, two new O-rings (one large for the housing cap and one small for the drain plug), and a small plastic drain spout tool. Using the included new O-rings is mandatory for preventing leaks.
The Complete DIY Oil Change Guide for Your 2016 Tacoma V6
Feeling confident? Performing an oil change on your Tacoma is a rewarding task that can save you money and connect you more closely with your vehicle. Follow these detailed steps for a successful and clean job.
Gathering Your Tools and Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. There’s nothing worse than having oil draining from your truck only to realize you’re missing a tool. You will need a 14mm socket or wrench for the oil drain plug, a 10mm socket for the skid plate bolts, and a special oil filter wrench designed for Toyota’s cartridge-style filter housings. Also gather a reliable torque wrench, an oil drain pan with at least a 7-quart capacity, a funnel, nitrile gloves to keep your hands clean, and plenty of shop rags or paper towels.
Of course, the most important supplies are your 7 quarts of full synthetic 0W-20 oil and your new oil filter kit (like the 04152-YZZA5).
A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Step 1: Preparation and Safety
Start by warming up the engine for a few minutes. This helps the oil thin out and drain more completely. Do not get it fully hot, just warm to the touch. Park your truck on a solid, level surface and engage the emergency brake. If you need to lift the vehicle for better access, use a proper floor jack and always support the vehicle securely with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Step 2: Accessing the Drain Plug and Filter
Underneath the front of your Tacoma, you’ll see a metal skid plate. You may need to remove a small access panel or the entire front section of the skid plate to reach the oil pan and filter. This is typically held in place by several bolts that you can remove with your 10mm socket. Once removed, you will have a clear view of the oil drain plug on the oil pan and the black composite oil filter housing nearby.
Step 3: Draining the Engine Oil
Position your drain pan directly underneath the oil drain plug. Using your 14mm wrench or socket, loosen the plug. Once it’s loose, you can typically unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Be prepared for the oil to flow out quickly. Allow the oil to drain completely, which may take 10-15 minutes. While it drains, clean the drain plug and replace the small metal or fiber crush washer with a new one if you have it. Once the flow has slowed to a drip, reinstall the drain plug.
Step 4: Servicing the Cartridge Oil Filter
This is the most involved step. First, use your 3/8-inch drive ratchet to remove the small metal cap on the bottom of the filter housing. You can then insert the small plastic tool that came with your new filter to drain the oil from the housing, minimizing the mess when you remove it. After it drains, use your special Toyota oil filter wrench to loosen the main housing. Unscrew it by hand and carefully lower it down.
Remove the old paper filter element and the large black O-ring from the grooves on the housing cap. Also, find and remove the small O-ring from the tip of the housing. Now, take your new filter kit. Lightly coat the new large and small O-rings with a thin layer of fresh engine oil. This is a critical step to ensure a proper seal and prevent the O-rings from tearing upon installation. Install the new O-rings into their correct grooves. Insert the new paper filter element into the housing, and then screw the housing back onto the engine block by hand until it is snug.
Step 5: Applying the Final Torque
Proper torque is essential to prevent leaks and damage. Use your torque wrench to tighten the oil drain plug to approximately 30 ft-lbs. Then, use the torque wrench and filter wrench to tighten the oil filter housing to approximately 18 ft-lbs. Do not overtighten either of these components, especially the plastic filter housing, as it can crack.
Step 6: Refilling with Fresh Oil
With everything sealed up below, it’s time to add the lifeblood. Open the oil filler cap on the top of your engine. Using a clean funnel, slowly pour in about 5.5 quarts of your fresh 0W-20 synthetic oil. Pause, then start the engine and let it run for about 30-60 seconds. This circulates the new oil and fills the new oil filter.
Shut the engine off and wait about five minutes for the oil to settle back into the pan. Now, pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to get an accurate reading. The oil level should be near the lower mark. Slowly add more oil, checking the dipstick after each small addition, until the level reaches the “Full” mark. Be careful not to overfill. The total amount used will be very close to the specified 6.1 quarts.
Step 7: Final Checks and Reset
Once the oil level is correct, reinstall the oil filler cap. Start the engine again and carefully inspect underneath for any leaks around the drain plug or oil filter housing. If all is dry, reinstall the skid plate. Finally, reset the “Maintenance Required” light on your dashboard. This is usually done by cycling the ignition and holding the trip odometer button.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment for the Long Haul
So, how many quarts of oil for a 2016 Tacoma V6? The answer is a precise 6.1 quarts of full synthetic SAE 0W-20 oil with a filter change.
By understanding not just the quantity but also the correct type of oil and the proper procedure, you are taking a vital step in preserving the health, performance, and legendary reliability of your Toyota Tacoma. A regular oil change is the single most important piece of preventative maintenance you can perform. It’s a small investment of time and money that pays huge dividends in engine longevity, ensuring your Tacoma is ready for any adventure you throw its way for many years and miles to come.
How many quarts of oil does a 2016 Toyota Tacoma V6 need?
A 2016 Toyota Tacoma equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine requires 6.1 quarts of engine oil when the oil filter is also being replaced. If for some reason the oil filter is not replaced, the capacity is 5.8 quarts, but it is always best practice to change the filter with every oil change. Using the precise amount is crucial for the engine’s lubrication system to function correctly and to avoid potential damage from overfilling or underfilling.
After refilling the engine with 6.1 quarts, it is a good habit to verify the level. To do this, start the engine and let it run for about a minute to allow the new oil to circulate and fill the new oil filter. Then, turn the engine off, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle back into the pan, and check the dipstick. The level should be at or near the full mark. If it’s slightly low, add a small amount of oil to top it off.
What type of motor oil is recommended for a 2016 Tacoma V6?
The manufacturer, Toyota, specifies the use of SAE 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil for the 2016 Tacoma with the 3.5L V6 engine. This particular viscosity grade ensures optimal engine performance, maximizes fuel economy, and provides superior protection during cold starts when the engine is most vulnerable to wear. Using an oil that meets the manufacturer’s specifications is essential for maintaining the engine’s health and longevity.
It is strongly advised to use a high-quality, full synthetic oil that meets or exceeds the API (American Petroleum Institute) service standards listed in your owner’s manual. While conventional oil might be cheaper, synthetic oil offers better resistance to thermal breakdown, superior sludge prevention, and enhanced lubrication properties across a wider range of temperatures. Adhering to the 0W-20 synthetic recommendation helps ensure your Tacoma’s engine operates as designed.
Do I need to replace the oil filter with every oil change?
Yes, you should absolutely replace the oil filter every single time you change the engine oil. The oil filter is responsible for trapping and holding harmful contaminants, metal shavings, and sludge that can accumulate in the oil. If you drain the old oil but leave the old filter, you are leaving a significant amount of dirty oil and contaminants in the system, which will immediately mix with and degrade your fresh oil.
Failing to change the filter essentially negates much of the benefit of an oil change. A clogged filter can restrict oil flow, starving critical engine components of lubrication. In a worst-case scenario, the filter’s bypass valve will open, allowing unfiltered oil to circulate throughout the engine, which can lead to premature and excessive wear on internal parts. For the small cost of a new filter, it is a critical and non-negotiable part of the maintenance process.
How do I accurately check the oil level in my 2016 Tacoma V6?
To get a precise reading, the vehicle must be parked on a completely level surface. For the most accurate measurement, the engine should be at its normal operating temperature. Once you have driven the truck, park it on level ground, turn off the engine, and wait at least five minutes. This allows time for the oil circulating in the engine to drain back down into the oil pan.
After waiting, pull the engine oil dipstick out and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Reinsert the dipstick fully, then immediately pull it out again. The oil level should be between the two dots or lines on the end of the dipstick. The ideal level is at or just below the top “full” mark. If the level is near the bottom “low” mark, you should add oil in small increments, rechecking the level until it is full.
What are the risks of overfilling or underfilling the engine oil?
Underfilling the engine with oil is extremely harmful because it can lead to oil starvation. When the oil level is too low, the oil pump can suck in air, preventing proper lubrication of critical components like bearings, camshafts, and pistons. This lack of lubrication causes a rapid increase in friction and heat, which can lead to severe wear, warped parts, and ultimately, catastrophic engine failure that requires a complete engine replacement.
Overfilling the engine is also very damaging. When the oil level is too high, the rotating crankshaft can churn the oil, whipping it into a foam. This aerated, foamy oil cannot lubricate effectively, leading to increased engine wear similar to an underfilled condition. Furthermore, the excess oil volume increases pressure inside the crankcase, which can damage and blow out seals and gaskets, causing major oil leaks and expensive repairs.
Is the oil capacity different for the 2016 Tacoma 4-cylinder model?
Yes, the oil capacity is different for the 4-cylinder engine. The 2016 Toyota Tacoma equipped with the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine requires 6.2 quarts of oil with a filter change. This is slightly more than the 6.1 quarts required for the 3.5L V6 model. Although the difference is small, it is a critical distinction to make before beginning an oil change.
Because the capacities for the V6 and 4-cylinder engines are different, it is vital to confirm which engine your vehicle has. You can find this information in your owner’s manual or on the vehicle information sticker located under the hood. Using the wrong capacity can easily lead to an underfilled or overfilled condition, both of which can cause serious engine problems. Always verify your specific engine and its required oil capacity before adding new oil.
How often should I change the oil in my 2016 Tacoma V6?
For a 2016 Toyota Tacoma V6 operating under normal driving conditions, Toyota recommends an oil and filter change interval of every 10,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever occurs first. This extended interval is designed for use with the specified SAE 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil, which is engineered to last longer and provide protection for that duration. Following this schedule is the best way to maintain engine performance and reliability.
However, if your vehicle is operated under what Toyota defines as “special operating conditions,” the oil change interval should be shortened to every 5,000 miles or 6 months. These more demanding conditions include frequent towing, carrying heavy loads on a roof rack, extensive driving on dirt or dusty roads, or making repeated short trips of less than five miles in freezing temperatures. These activities put greater stress on the engine and the oil, necessitating more frequent changes.