RAV-4 oil change

[Mroy]

Hi,
I'm new to the forum and just looking for advice on an oil change for my 2006 RAV-4 6 cyl. First question is : is it necessary to replace the gasket on the drain plug at each oil change, second : how does everyone feel about synthetics or synthetic blend oils?? Thanks for the help!

[photorick]

Hello Mroy,
My service manager recommended NON-SYNTHETIC oil for the first time or two. He recommended Mobil 5000 petroleum-based oil, not synthetic until the engine is well broken in. Use the weight shown on the oil filler cap.

I would like to know where the oil filter is on the 07, 6 cylinder Rav4.

[grumpy in NH]

I've read here somewhere that the 6 has a cartride, not a spin on - ALMOST a dealer required change - but NOT for the well heeled shade tree Mekanick. O-Rings and drain kits required! Must be tight under there.

Grump

[Quickdtoo]

Originally Posted by grumpy in NH

I've read here somewhere that the 6 has a cartride, not a spin on - ALMOST a dealer required change - but NOT for the well heeled shade tree Mekanick. O-Rings and drain kits required! Must be tight under there.

Grump

It does have a cartridge, so did a lot of older vehicles before spin on filters were invented, a lot of new vehicles have them now, VW, Mazda and Hyundai to name a few. It certainly doesn't require a dealer to be changed. It's a little more work than a spin on filter, more parts but a lot less messy because the filter housing can be drained before removal.

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