1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner Oil and Oil Filter Replacement

Make sure the engine oil is hot so it can flow out of the engine easily

Either drive the vehicle or run the engine for about 5 minutes before starting the oil change.

Begin with removing the steel guard from underneath the vehicle

Start by removing the three 12mm socket bolts located at the front of the guard.

Remove the two 12mm socket bolts located deep within the front plate.

Remove the rear bolts, but the steel guard will not fall off because it has hooks attached to the front frame.

After removing all the bolts, put the steel guard on the side.

With the steel guard removed, locate the engine oil pan and use a 14mm socket wrench to remove the drain plug.

Let the engine oil drain into the drain pan.

Open the filler cap located in the engine bay, which should indicate the required oil type (5W30)

Clean the area around the cap and remove it, but place it back loosely to prevent any dirt from falling into the engine.

Allow the engine oil to drain for an extended period, such as 30 minutes, to ensure maximum oil removal.

While the oil is draining, inspect and clean the splash shield and check for any leaks.

Remove the old engine oil filter by reaching it from the front and coming around the lower radiator hose

If the filter is not overtightened, you should be able to remove it by hand.

Prepare the new engine oil filter by applying a small amount of oil to the rubber gasket.

Install the new engine oil filter and hand-tighten it.

Reinstall the drain plug with its washer and tighten it using the 14mm socket wrench

Be careful not to overtighten it, as it could damage the threads on the oil pan

The torque for the drain plug is 33 foot-pounds if you want to use a torque wrench.

Fill the engine with the recommended 5W-30 engine oil using a funnel

Add 4 quarts initially, then gradually add more while checking the dipstick to avoid overfilling.

Fill the engine with a total of 5.5 US quarts of engine oil, as specified in the manual for an oil change with filter replacement.

Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, then check for any leaks.