What type of engine oil is recommended in the Vios maintenance manual?
2 Answers
Vios maintenance uses Toyota Genuine Pure Synthetic Engine Oil, specifically SM-grade 5W-20 full synthetic oil. Introduction to semi-synthetic oil: Semi-synthetic oil is a product refined from mineral oil through hydro-cracking technology. It consists of a 4:6 ratio blend of mineral oil and full synthetic oil. The purity of semi-synthetic oil is very close to that of full synthetic oil, but its cost is slightly higher than mineral oil, making it an ideal transitional product from mineral oil to synthetic oil. Introduction to full synthetic oil: Full synthetic oil is a premium-grade lubricant among engine oils. It is derived from ethylene and propylene dispersed from natural gas or crude oil's gas components, which then undergo polymerization, catalysis, and other complex chemical reactions to form a lubricating fluid composed of large molecules.
I've serviced many Toyota Vios models, and the maintenance manual recommends using 0W-20 full synthetic oil, which is optimized for engine design and climate conditions. Synthetic oil has low viscosity and high durability, reducing wear and improving fuel efficiency. The manual may also specify API SN or SP grade, so be sure to check specific requirements during oil changes—don't skimp on this. Typically, change the oil every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, combined with checking oil level and cleanliness via dipstick. Using incorrect viscosity or low-quality oil might not show immediate effects, but long-term use can accelerate engine aging and increase noise. Maintenance isn't just about oil changes; it also includes other items like filters and coolant that need attention.