Here’s a table for 2021 Toyota RAV4 Engine Models:
Engine Model | Oil Type | Oil Capacity with Filter (quarts/liters) |
2.5L 4-Cylinder (2AR-FE) | 0W-20 Synthetic | 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters) |
2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid (A25A-FXS) | 0W-16 Synthetic | 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) |
What kind of oil does a 2021 Toyota RAV4 take?
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 uses synthetic motor oil. The specific grade of oil varies depending on the engine model in the vehicle:
- 2.5L 4-Cylinder (2AR-FE): 0W-20 Synthetic
- 2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid (A25A-FXS): 0W-16 Synthetic
These are the manufacturer’s recommended oil types for optimal performance and longevity of the engine.
Several brands offer this grade of synthetic oil. Here are a few examples:
- Mobil 1 – Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20, 0W-16.
- Castrol – EDGE Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20, MAGNATEC 0W-16.
- Pennzoil – Platinum Full Synthetic 0W-20, Platinum Full Synthetic 0W-16.
- Valvoline – Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20, Advanced Full Synthetic 0W-16.
- Royal Purple – High Performance Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20.
The oil capacity for a full oil change, including the filter, for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is:
- 2.5L 4-Cylinder (2AR-FE): 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters)
- 2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid (A25A-FXS): 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters)
How often do you change the oil on a 2021 Toyota RAV4?
For a 2021 Toyota RAV4, Toyota recommends changing your oil every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. This applies to both the conventional and hybrid models, assuming that you are using the recommended synthetic oil.
However, this recommendation assumes “normal” driving conditions. If your driving habits fall under what is considered “severe” driving conditions – such as frequent short trips (less than 5 miles), repeated short trips (less than 10 miles) when outside temperatures are below freezing, extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving, towing a trailer, using a car-top carrier, or driving on dirt or dusty roads – then more frequent oil changes may be required. In these cases, it might be necessary to change the oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months.
How much will it cost to change oil and filter on a 2021 Toyota RAV4 in the US?
The cost of an oil and filter change on a 2021 Toyota RAV4 can vary significantly based on where you go for the service. On average, you might expect to pay between $40 and $125 in the United States, as of the latest data available to me in September 2021.
At a Toyota dealership, you could expect to pay between $75 and $125. This price often includes a multi-point inspection along with the oil and filter change.
Independent shops or quick-lube chains may charge less, often between $40 and $80. However, the exact price can depend on various factors including your location, the specific shop, the brand and type of oil used, and whether any other services are performed at the same time.
What are the signs of an oil change in the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
While the general rule of thumb is to change your oil every 10,000 miles or every 12 months for the 2021 Toyota RAV4, there are other signs that may indicate your vehicle needs an oil change. These include:
- Check Engine or Oil Change Light: This is the most direct indicator. Modern vehicles like the 2021 RAV4 are designed to alert you when it’s time for an oil change.
- Dark and Dirty Oil: Clean oil should be amber in color and somewhat transparent. You can check the color of your oil by removing the dipstick, wiping it clean, reinserting it, and then removing it again to check the color. If the oil is dark and dirty, it’s time for an oil change.
- Loud Engine Noise and Knocking: Oil provides a protective barrier between engine parts to prevent them from touching and to reduce engine noise. If your engine is making more noise than usual or you hear a knocking sound, your oil may not be providing adequate lubrication.
- Oil Smell Inside the Car: If you’re smelling oil inside the car, this can be a sign of an oil leak. Overheating can also cause oil to break down and produce a smell.
- Exhaust Smoke: If you see smoke coming out of your exhaust instead of the normal translucent exhaust fumes, this can also indicate an oil leak.