What is the Oil Type and Capacity of a 2021 Toyota Highlander?

Benefits of using a quality synthetic oil for your 2021 Toyota Highlander 

Compared to conventional oil, synthetic oil is a more refined motor oil known for its viscosity consistency and high purity level. Most synthetic oils are specifically made to fit modern engines. 

Some benefits provided by synthetic oil include:

1. Consistent viscosity levels

Viscosity levels refer to the thickness or thinness of an oil and its resistance to flow. For instance, if you come across engine oil with a viscosity of 0W-40, the 0 relates to the oil’s viscosity in colder temperatures. In comparison, 40 represents the viscosity level in a warmer temperature. The W in between means winter.

For your engine to be properly functional, there needs to be a balance in the thickness and thinness of the engine oil. On the one hand, the thickness is needed to lubricate the engine parts and reduce friction. On the other hand, thinness is necessary for oil to flow between the engine parts.

Synthetic oils are chemically constructed to contain uniform molecules necessary to achieve more stability across different temperatures. Synthetic oils are less likely to break down in high temperatures due to excessive thinning. The opposite is the case for conventional oils.

2. Less Friction

Consistency in the shape of molecules in synthetic oil enhances the job of lubricating engine parts. In contrast, conventional oil contains inconsistent or irregularly shaped molecules, limiting its lubricative function.

During the refining process in synthetic oil, most impurities that could cause friction due to sludge build-up in the engine are removed. Whereas they still exist in conventional oil. 

In a nutshell, synthetic oil is engineered to reduce friction over a longer period than conventional oil. However, if your synthetic oil is overdue for change, it may become too thick and lead to sludge build-ups. So, whether you use conventional oil or not, you must regularly change your synthetic oil.  

3. Increased Engine life

As we have noted, synthetic oil provides superior qualities to an engine. Its uniform makeup ensures an increase in engine life through the following:

Better thermal regulation (especially in high temperatures)

Improved horsepower

Quick starts by maintaining oil viscosity in colder temperatures 

A cleaner engine is free from sludge build-ups and deposits in your engine.

4. Resistance to oxidation

More resistance to breakdowns and reduced evaporation loss (in hot weather)

Requires fewer oil change intervals (7,500 – 10,000 miles or every six months)

Note: While synthetic oil is overall good for your engine, there are some situations where conventional oil is better. For instance, there may be better choices than synthetic oil for your 2021 Toyota Highlander if you take shorter trips or use your vehicle to tow.

Is Amsoil synthetic oil compatible with other Conventional oil? 

Amsoil synthetic oil is compatible with other conventional oil. As such, you would experience no engine problems when mixing Amsoil with other conventional oils. Synthetic and conventional oil share similar base materials (crude). Oil manufacturers created synthetic blend motor oil to serve as a cross-blend between synthetic oils and conventional oils. The idea for this mixture is to create an engine oil that can contain both the qualities associated with synthetic oils and that of conventional oils.

Nevertheless, it is advisable to attempt this mixture as a last resort because mixing these oil can reduce the performance benefits unique to Amsoil synthetic motor oils.

How do you check the transmission fluid in a Toyota Highlander? 

The transmission is a vital part of your vehicle and is in charge of the gear movement. It uses a fluid that helps lubricate parts of the transmission and reduces friction.

In addition,  Toyota Highlander requires quality transmission fluid and regular fluid changes to protect the components of the transmission system.

You can monitor the transmission fluid level of your 2021 Toyota Highlander by following the steps below.

1. Prepare your vehicle

Turn on the engine to keep the transmission fluid warm, engage the brake and park the car. 

2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick

The transmission fluid dipstick is on the right side of the oil dipstick for front-wheel cars. If you drive a rear-wheel car, the dipstick is behind the engine oil dipstick. You can consult your Owner’s manual if you need help locating the transmission fluid dipstick. 

3. Pull out the dipstick and check the condition of the fluid

The fluid ought to be pinkish or transparent in color. You need to change the fluid if you notice a dark brown color. Aside from the color, check to see if the fluid contains particles.

We recommend regular transmission fluid changes anywhere from 60,000 to 100,000 miles. You can change this fluid at an earlier date if you notice problematic symptoms such as; dark brown color, burning smell, or contamination.

What is the Recommended Motor Oil for the 2021 Toyota Highlander? 

If you are searching for the best oil for your 2021 Toyota Highlander, Amsoil is the right option. Amsoil motor oils are well-engineered to provide superior protection for your Toyota engine.  

Where can I find the owner’s manual for my 2021 Highlander?

Here is the link! 

https://www.toyota.com/owners/resources/warranty-owners-manuals.highlander.2021

A few Last words! 

The engine is the powerhouse of any vehicle and having a well-maintained engine is key to unlocking the best out of the car. As recommended above, regular oil changes are advisable every 5,000 miles for conventional and 10,000 miles for synthetic oils. 

Only use motor oil with the recommended viscosity for maximum results.