How often does a 2004 Toyota Tacoma need the oil changed if purchasing used and owner only changed every 5K synthetic oil but you thought changes needed every 3K miles?

Answer 1

== == All Toyotas produced after [about] 1998 can go 5,000 miles between oil changes and this is taken directly from the owner's manuals and the dealership mechanics. I have a 2002 4Runner and 2003 Tacoma (www.tacoma.cc) and both of them get an oil change according to factory schedule every 5,000 miles. Older cars and (probably) domestic cars need a change every 3,000 miles, but not Toyotas.

The answer to your question is not vehicle specific. The oil change interval has nothing to do with whether your vehicle is a Toyota, Ford, Yugo or whatever. It is possible that the previous owner most likely changed his oil every 5000 because he was using synthetic oil. Synthetic motor oil takes longer to break down and therefore can still protect your engine for as long as 5000 miles. Some synthetics can run even longer, and it will say that right on the container. I run synthetic in my 16 year old Jeep and I change the oil every 10,000 miles. The Jeep runs flawlessly and has never burned oil. If you are using conventional motor oil however, it is highly recommended that you utilize a change period of 3000 miles. As a special note: I have heard that once a vehicle is used to synthetics, it is not advisable to switch back to conventional motor oil. Don't know if there's any truth to that. All that being said, you should still refer to your owners manual for the recommended oil change intervals according to the manufacturer. Authentic owners manuals can be had through eBay. Good Luck.