How to Change the Oil in a 2006 Toyota Tacoma

Regular oil changes will increase the life of your 2006 Tacoma.

Oil is the 2006 Tacoma's most important fluid. It cools, cleans and lubricates the engine's moving parts and helps maintain optimal performance. Regular oil changes greatly increase your engine's longevity and will yield considerable savings over the life of your Tacoma. The oil change requires minimal mechanical skill and a willingness to get your hands dirty.

Things You'll Need

• Ramps
• Pan
• Socket wrench and sockets
• Oil filter wrench
• Shop rag
• Motor oil

Instructions

1. Park on a flat surface and shut off the engine. Drive onto the ramps if you do not have enough clearance to slide beneath the truck. Raise the hood and prop it open.

2. Slide a pan underneath the oil-drain-plug. The plug is located on the oil pan at the rear of the engine. Loosen the plug with the socket wrench, and remove it and its rubber gasket by hand.

3. Allow the oil pan to drain for about 4 to 6 minutes before wiping the area around the drain and reinserting and tightening the oil drain plug.

4. Locate the oil filter to left of the engine. Loosen it with the filter wrench and remove it by hand. Wipe the area where the filter meets the engine. Place the filter in the pan with the old oil. Apply a thin film of oil to the new filter's rubber gasket and twist the new filter into place.

5. Remove the oil-fill-cap and insert the funnel. Pour approximately 5.8 quarts into the funnel. Remove the funnel and replace the cap.

6. Close the hood and allow the engine to idle for 1 minute. Check the oil level with the dipstick, and check for leakage beneath the truck.

7. Dispose of the used oil and filter by taking them to an auto repair facility or service station.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not over-tighten the plug or the filter; over-tightening might damage the rubber gaskets and cause leakage.

References

• Toyota: Toyota Owners Online: How to Replace the Engine Oil and Filter