Here’s a table summarizing the oil type and capacity for the 2004 Toyota RAV4 engine models.
| Engine Model | Oil Type | Oil Capacity with Filter (quarts/liters) |
| 2.4L 4-Cyl. (2AZ-FE) | SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic | 4.3 / 4.0 |
What kind of oil does a 2004 Toyota RAV4 take?
The 2004 Toyota RAV4 typically uses SAE 5W-30 engine oil. It’s recommended to use full synthetic oil for better engine performance and longevity, though synthetic blend and conventional oils can also be used if they meet the SAE 5W-30 specification.
For a full oil change, the 2.4L 4-Cyl. (2AZ-FE) engine, which is common in the 2004 RAV4, typically requires about 4.3 quarts (approximately 4.07 liters) of oil when the filter is also changed.
As for suitable oil brands, there are many that offer high-quality SAE 5W-30 oil. Here are a few examples:
- Mobil 1 Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30
- Castrol EDGE Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30
- Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil
- Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30
- Shell Rotella Gas Truck Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil
Remember, while these brands are typically high-quality, the most important factor is the oil’s viscosity and type (SAE 5W-30 and preferably full synthetic for the 2004 RAV4). Always check the specifications on the oil you’re purchasing to make sure it matches what your vehicle needs.
How often do you change the oil on a 2004 Toyota RAV4?
The oil change interval can depend on a few factors, including the type of oil you’re using, your driving habits, and the specific recommendations of the manufacturer.
Generally, for a 2004 Toyota RAV4, if you’re using conventional oil, the recommended oil change interval is usually around every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first.
However, if you’re using synthetic oil, you can often go longer between changes. Many modern synthetic oils can last 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or every 6 months, before needing to be changed.
How much will it cost to change oil and filter on a 2004 Toyota RAV4 in the US?
The cost to change the oil and filter on a 2004 Toyota RAV4 can vary depending on your location in the U.S., the type of oil you choose, and whether you do it yourself or have it done by a professional.
If you’re having the service done at a professional shop, you can generally expect to pay between $30 and $75 for a conventional oil change. If you opt for synthetic oil, the cost can be between $45 and $125. These prices include the cost of the new oil, a new filter, and labor.
At a dealership, the cost can be higher, potentially up to $100 for conventional oil or $150 for synthetic.
If you choose to do the oil change yourself, the costs are generally lower. You’ll need to buy the oil and filter yourself. A 5-quart container of 5W-30 oil can cost anywhere from $15-$40 depending on the brand and whether it’s conventional or synthetic. An oil filter typically costs between $5 and $15.
What are the signs of an oil change in the 2004 Toyota RAV4?
While mileage is a common guideline for when to change your oil, it’s not the only factor to consider. Here are a few signs that your 2004 Toyota RAV4 might need an oil change, outside of just considering the mileage:
- Check Engine or Oil Change Light: The most obvious sign is if your check engine or oil change light illuminates on the dashboard.
- Dirty Oil: Clean oil is amber in color and slightly translucent. As it becomes dirty from use, it will darken and can become more opaque. You can check the color of your oil by removing the dipstick, wiping it clean, reinserting it, then removing it again to see the color of the oil.
- Loud Engine Noise and Knocking: Oil provides a protective layer between engine parts to avoid metal-to-metal brushing and keeps the engine quiet. If your engine is louder than normal or you hear knocking, it might be due to old or insufficient oil.
- Oil Smell Inside the Car: If you’re smelling oil inside the car, it could be a sign that your vehicle has an oil leak. If you also smell gas or exhaust fumes, the vehicle could be overheating, which could cause serious damage if not addressed quickly.
- Exhaust Smoke: While it’s normal for some translucent vapor to come out of your car’s tailpipe, actual smoke is not. If you notice smoke, it could be due to an oil leak. If the smoke is blue, it could indicate that oil is being burned in the engine.
- Excessive Mileage: If you’ve been driving a lot recently, especially long distances, your vehicle may need an oil change sooner than the recommended intervals.
2004 Toyota RAV4 Oil Change (Video)
