What grade of engine oil does the RAV4 use?
3 Answers
RAV4 uses 5W40 full synthetic engine oil or 5W30 semi-synthetic engine oil, with a replacement capacity of 4L and a replacement interval of 5000 kilometers. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves multiple functions including lubrication and wear reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, as well as shock absorption and buffering. The RAV4 is the base model in Toyota's compact multi-purpose off-road vehicle family, with body dimensions of 4630mm in length, 1855mm in width, and 1685mm in height, a wheelbase of 2660mm, and a body weight of 1420kg. The RAV4 is available in both 3-door and 5-door models, featuring an intake port and front and rear bumpers that emphasize its off-road feel, along with enlarged headlights and a more prominent Toyota logo. Thanks to an 80mm increase in wheelbase and enhanced interior height and width, the RAV4 offers spacious and comfortable seating.
I've been driving my RAV4 for over three years, always using the 0W-20 oil recommended in the manual. This oil provides exceptionally smooth cold starts in winter and sufficient high-temperature protection in summer. During maintenance at the 4S shop, the technician mentioned this viscosity is ideal for modern engines, improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon buildup. However, for older RAV4 models, like those before 2015, the manual might specify 5W-30 as suitable. It's crucial to check your vehicle's model year and not arbitrarily change viscosity grades, or the engine noise may increase. I change my full synthetic oil every 8,000 kilometers and prefer reputable brands for peace of mind. A quick reminder: never overfill or underfill the engine oil—the dipstick's middle mark is the perfect level.
When I first bought the RAV4, I was torn about the engine oil viscosity. After checking the owner's group and manual, I confirmed that 0W-20 is the safest choice. This grade maintains fluidity even in sub-zero temperatures, ensuring smooth cold starts in winter. A friend who works at an auto repair shop mentioned that the new RAV4's engine has tighter clearances, so 20-weight oil penetrates and lubricates better. In extremely hot climates, some mechanics might recommend 5W-30, but my real-world tests show 0W-20 performs flawlessly even on long-distance trips. Always opt for SP-grade full synthetic oil, which extends the service interval to 10,000 km. During oil changes, remember to inspect the oil filter—a dirty filter can render fresh oil ineffective.