1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner Oil and Oil Filter Replacement

Step 1

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• 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.

Step 2

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• 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.

Step 3

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

Step 4

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

Step 5

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

Step 6

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

Step 7

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• Let the engine oil drain into the drain pan.

Step 8

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• 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.

Step 9

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

Step 10

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

Step 11

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• 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.

Step 12

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

Step 13

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

Step 14

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• Check for any leaks around the newly installed oil filter.

Step 15

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• 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.

Step 16

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• 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.

Step 17

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• 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.

Step 18

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

Step 19

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• Reinstall the steel guard using the 12mm socket wrench, making sure to apply anti-seize to the bolts for easy removal in the future.

Step 20

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• Perform a test drive to ensure everything is working properly.