The Toyota Corolla is one of the most popular and reliable compact cars on the road. Proper maintenance, especially regular oil changes, is crucial to getting the most out of your Corolla.
Choosing the right motor oil keeps your engine running smoothly and efficiently.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about selecting the proper oil type, viscosity, and maintenance schedule for a 2016 Toyota Corolla.
Overview of Oil Types for the 2016 Toyota Corolla
The 2016 Toyota Corolla requires synthetic or conventional motor oil that meets Toyota’s specifications. The recommended oil viscosity grades are 0W-20, 5W-20 or 5W-30. Using the manufacturer-recommended oil type and viscosity grade is important for optimal engine performance and longevity.
Toyota recommends using 0W-20 synthetic motor oil for newer corolla models.
Recommended Oil Types
- Full synthetic oil – Provides superior protection and engine performance.
- Synthetic blend oil – A mix of conventional and synthetic oil.
- Conventional oil – Refined from crude oil and suitable for most driving conditions.
Full synthetic and synthetic blend oils allow for longer drain intervals compared to conventional oil. However, synthetic oils are generally more expensive.
Recommended Viscosity Grades
- 0W-20 – Best protection in very cold climates.
- 5W-20 – Good cold weather performance and fuel economy.
- 5W-30 – Best for hot climates and high temperatures.
Always consult your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended oil viscosity grade. Consider your driving conditions and climate when choosing an oil grade.
Key Benefits of Recommended Oils
Using the recommended oil types and grades provides:
- Optimal engine lubrication and wear protection
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Enhanced cold weather starting and performance
- Reduced sludge and deposit buildup
- Longer oil change intervals for synthetic oils
- Prevent engine damage and maximize engine life
Choosing the Right Oil Viscosity
Oil viscosity refers to how easily oil flows at certain temperatures. The viscosity grade impacts engine protection and performance.
Understanding Viscosity Ratings
The SAE viscosity rating has two numbers with a “W” in between:
- First number – Oil viscosity at low temperatures
- Second number – Viscosity at high temperatures
For example, a 5W-30 oil flows well in cold temperatures like a 5 weight oil, but operates as a 30 weight oil when hot.
Viscosity Recommendations for 2016 Corolla
Toyota recommends SAE viscosity grades 0W-20, 5W-20 or 5W-30 for the 2016 Corolla depending on climate:
| Climate | Recommended Viscosity |
|---|---|
| Very Cold Climates | 0W-20 |
| Temperate Climates | 5W-20 |
| Hot Climates | 5W-30 |
Consult your owner’s manual if you are unsure which viscosity grade to use.
Benefits of Recommended Viscosity Grades
- 0W-20 – Superior cold flow and protection in frigid temperatures
- 5W-20 – Improved fuel economy and emission control
- 5W-30 – Excellent high temperature stability and wear protection
Always use the recommended viscosity even if using synthetic oil for optimal performance. Do not deviate from manufacturer specifications.
Synthetic vs Conventional Oil
Both synthetic and conventional oils work in the 2016 Toyota Corolla, however there are some key differences:
Synthetic Motor Oil
Synthetic oil is chemically engineered from synthetic base oils. Key benefits:
- Superior resistance to oxidation and sludge buildup
- Better protection against deposits and corrosion
- Improved low temperature flow capabilities
- Longer drain intervals – up to 10,000 miles or more
- Better fuel economy compared to conventional oil
- Generally exceeds performance specifications of conventional oil
Conventional Motor Oil
Conventional oil is refined from crude oil and suitable for most driving conditions:
- More affordable than synthetic oil
- Provides adequate lubrication and protection for most driving
- Needs to be changed more frequently – around every 5,000 miles
- Flows poorly in extremely cold temperatures
- Higher volatility and oxidation compared to synthetic
While synthetic oil is superior, conventional oil is a reliable option if changed regularly.
Using Synthetic or Conventional Oil
Most manufacturers approve the use of conventional or synthetic oil. Factors like driving conditions, climate, mileage and budget impact the choice between synthetic or conventional.
Synthetic is recommended for:
- Newer engines
- Vehicles with over 75,000 miles
- Extreme hot or cold climates
- Extended oil change intervals
- Towing or hauling heavy loads
Conventional oil is fine for:
- Older engines with high mileage
- Normal commuting in temperate climates
- Budget-minded drivers
- Short oil change intervals around 5,000 miles
Always consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations. Properly maintained, both oil types will provide thousands of miles of engine protection.
Oil Change Process for 2016 Toyota Corolla
Changing the engine oil regularly is vital to maximize engine life and performance. Follow these steps when changing oil on a 2016 Toyota Corolla:
Items Needed
- Toyota oil filter (Part #90415-YZZF2)
- 4.4 quarts of recommended oil viscosity
- Oil drain pan
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket wrench and oil filter wrench
- Clean rags
Oil Change Process
- Raise front of vehicle on jack stands for access to drain plug
- Place drain pan underneath oil drain plug
- Remove drain plug and allow oil to fully drain from pan
- Remove and replace oil filter
- Replace drain plug using new washer
- Lower vehicle from jack stands
- Fill engine with 4.4 quarts of new oil through fill cap
- Start engine and check for leaks
- Reset oil change light or sticker
Always dispose of used oil properly. Inspect other fluids and top up if needed. Following the manufacturer maintenance schedule is key for longevity.
Benefits of Routine Oil Changes
- Extends engine life by reducing wear
- Maintains optimal engine performance
- Prevents damaging sludge buildup
- Cleans internal components
- Replenishes additives to protect and lubricate engine
- Helps identify other issues like leaks early
Changing your Corolla’s oil every 5,000-10,000 miles using the proper grade and weight oil will keep your engine running smoothly for years to come.
Conclusion
Meanwhile, Corolla models made in 2008 or earlier should use 5W-30 synthetic motor oil. Choosing the right oil viscosity and using quality oils with proper change intervals is vital to maximize engine life and performance.
Consult your owner’s manual and consider climate and driving conditions when selecting engine oil. With proper maintenance, your Corolla’s engine will keep running smoothly for years to come.
When he’s not working his magic under the hood, Ethan Wilson is usually sharing his love for Toyota cars through his writing. Ethan’s got a special talent for breaking down complex car topics into easy-to-understand articles, making him a go-to source for Toyota enthusiasts everywhere.
