The Toyota Tacoma has built a reputation for being a rugged and dependable truck, especially over rough terrain and when off-roading. The 1998 Tacoma is no exception. To keep your truck in the best shape possible, you’ll need to start with knowing its engine oil capacity. This is between 5.5 and 5.8 quarts, depending on your engine type.

Owning an older vehicle can come with some unexpected expenses. Mechanical issues and surprise repairs can really add up, but a lot of issues can be avoided with regular maintenance. And a great way to save on maintenance costs is by doing some of it yourself.

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1998 Toyota Tacoma engine oil capacity

Before you can change the oil in your Tacoma, you need to know how much engine oil it really needs.

The answer actually depends on the type of engine you have in your truck.

2RZ-FE engine: 5.8 qt with oil filter

5VZ-FE engine: 5.7 qt with oil filter

3RZ-FE engine: 5.7 qt with oil filter

5VZ-FE engine: 5.5 qt with oil filter

If you’re not sure which engine your truck has, you can always check your owner’s manual. It should list all of the engine specifications you need, including the engine type and how many quarts of oil it needs.

What kind of oil does a 1998 Toyota Tacoma need?

Once you’ve figured out how much oil your engine needs, you’ll need to pick a type of oil to purchase. While there are a lot of options, each engine oil is designed for specific vehicles.

It’s best to stick as closely as possible to the manufacturer’s recommendation. Toyota recommends API grade SH SAE 5W-30 engine oil for the 1998 Tacoma.

API SH engine oils are specifically for engines manufactured before the year 2000. While newer vehicles shouldn’t use API SH oils, they’re perfect for the 1998 Tacoma.

As for the 5W-30, the number before the “W” indicates how thick the oil will be in cold start conditions, while the number after the dash indicates how thick the oil will be when the car is running at its very hot normal operating temperature.

If you need some more specific recommendations to get you started, check out these options:

Energy-Conserving II or SJ SAE 5W-30

Energy-Conserving multigrade engine oil SAE 5W-30

ILSAC multigrade engine oil SAE 5W-30

MORE:

Ultimate FRAM oil filter guide

How often to change oil on a 1998 Toyota Tacoma

Now that you know which type of engine oil to buy and how much you need, you’ll need to find out if your Tacoma needs an oil change.

Usually, you can wait between 7,500 and 10,000 miles before changing your oil if you’re using a high-quality synthetic engine oil. However, older engines need a little more TLC to make sure they’re in top shape. Toyota recommends changing the oil in a 1998 Tacoma every 3,000 to 5,000 miles even if you’re using synthetic oil.

The best way to keep track of when you need an oil change is by checking your oil level on a regular basis. Keep an eye out for any of the following signs that you need an oil change:

Motor oil is dark brown or black (clean oil is light brown or amber)

Oil feels coarse or gritty if you rub it between your fingers

Your engine makes unfamiliar or strange noises

You smell anything like oil, smoke, or burning

You notice any changes in your vehicle’s performance

MORE:

The best Toyota Tacoma aftermarket parts

How to change your oil and oil filter

When your 1998 Tacoma is ready for an oil change, you’ll be able to do it at home with just a few tools. You’ll need a socket wrench, a drain pan, a filter wrench, a new filter, and new engine oil.

You’ll want to start your engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature. Then turn the vehicle off, open the hood, and follow these steps:

Remove the oil fill cap

Position the drain pan underneath the vehicle and remove the oil drain bolt. The oil will begin to drain out

While the old oil is draining, remove the oil filter

Install the new oil filter

Replace the oil drain bolt once the old oil is completely drained

Refill the oil reservoir with new oil and replace the fill cap

Turn your vehicle on and let the oil cycle through your engine for a few minutes. Your oil pressure light should turn off (if it was on), and you’ll be able to see if there are any leaks.

Finally, when you’re ready to clean up, pour the old oil into a sealed container and take it to a recycling facility. Do not dump it out on the ground or throw it in the trash!

Don’t forget regular insurance policy maintenance

Keeping up with regular maintenance can keep even high-mileage vehicles running smoothly. And by changing your oil at home, you can save time and skip the mechanic shop.

Another way to save money is by making sure you’re paying the lowest

Toyota Tacoma insurance cost

for your desired coverage level. With

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