A Guide To Toyota Corolla Oil Changes

If you own a Toyota Corolla, good choice — this best-seller has been a mainstay in the Toyota lineup for decades. It's an efficient, affordable, and sporty choice for anyone who wants to hit the road in a reliable ride. However, like any other vehicle, it requires a certain level of maintenance. Our Toyota of Orlando experts are here to discuss Toyota Corolla oil changes, filters, types, and more so you know exactly how to care for your car and keep it running for years to come.

Toyota Corolla oil changes: When do you need them?

The basic rule when it comes to Toyota Corolla oil changes is this: if you're using synthetic oil, you'll likely need an oil change every 5,000 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Our Toyota of Orlando technicians can get you on a schedule so you know when you should come back, as well as send you helpful reminders when you're due for an oil change so you can make an appointment.

If you're using conventional oil, on the other hand, you may need an oil change more frequently (every 3,000 miles or so). Your best bet overall is to check your owner's manual to see how often your car needs oil changes to be able to perform at its best.

Which is the best oil for Toyota Corolla models?

Now that you know how often you should be scheduling your oil changes, it's time to talk about which is the best oil for Toyota Corollas.

• Corolla models that are model year 2009 or newer should use Toyota Genuine motor oil 0W-20, which is a synthetic blend that will allow your car to maximize its performance.
• Corolla models that are model year 2008 or older should use Toyota Genuine motor oil 5W-30, which is another synthetic blend that's more suitable for older vehicles.

Is synthetic oil better than conventional oil for your Toyota?

Should you be using synthetic oil? Or is conventional a better bet for you? Here's a quick guide to these two types of motor oil so you can better decide which will work for you.

Synthetic oil is actually the more common choice of the two these days. It's made of artificially produced chemical compounds, and it tends to flow faster and more easily through your engine. Some drivers prefer synthetic motor oil because they believe it enhances their car's performance abilities. This type of motor oil is more expensive than conventional, but it lasts longer so you won't need oil changes as frequently.

Conventional motor oil, on the other hand, used to be the standard in the car care industry (not so much anymore). It's made from refined crude oil and flows more slowly than synthetic oil. It's cheaper than synthetic, but it doesn't last as long so you'll need more frequent oil changes.

The choice is yours, but our Orlando auto service techs recommend checking your owner's manual (or asking us) which oil is best. Some cars require synthetic oil. We also recommend using Toyota Genuine motor oil for the best quality product that you know you can rely on.

What about high-mileage oil?

If your Toyota Corolla has more than 100,000 miles on it, it may be better served with high-mileage oil. This type of motor oil has a higher viscosity, which means it flows more slowly through your engine. It also usually has special additives and seal enhancers that can help protect against oil leaks in your engine. If you're not sure whether or not you need this type of oil, ask our Orlando auto service experts.

Toyota Corolla oil filters — which are best?

As far as your oil filters go, you can use any brand that fits your vehicle (make sure to check its compatibility before you purchase).

Schedule Toyota maintenance today

Ready to get your Rolla on the books for maintenance? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-0001. You can also schedule online or visit us at 3575 Vineland Road — we're just off I-4 near Mall at Millenia.