Oil
- Viscosity
- 5W-30
- Oil type
- Conventional
- Capacity (with filter)
- 5 qt
- Capacity (without filter)
- 4.7 qt
OEM notes: ILSAC GF-4
2003 Toyota Highlander Maintenance & Specs
Everything you need to maintain your 2003 Toyota Highlander — oil specs, maintenance schedule, recalls, and more.
The 2003 Toyota Highlander takes 5W-30 Conventional with a total capacity of 5 quarts (filter included). You’ll need a 14mm socket for the drain plug, torqued to 36 Nm. The OEM oil filter is the Toyota 90915-YZZD1, with 2 compatible alternatives listed below. Note: this vehicle has 2 active recalls — check the recalls section below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.
Data last verified: April 30, 2026
Oil
5W-30
Conventional
Buy on Amazon →
Capacity
5 qt
with filter
Drain plug
14 mm
36 Nm torque
Filter
90915-YZZD1
Toyota (OEM)
Buy on Amazon →
OEM spec: ILSAC GF-4
Quick DIY Tips for the 2003 Toyota Highlander
- Torque your drain plug to 36 Nm (27 ft-lbs) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.
- Using the OEM filter (Toyota 90915-YZZD1) is recommended for warranty compliance.
- Always use 5W-30 Conventional as specified by Toyota — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
- Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.
Filter options
Drain bolt & hardware
- Socket size
- 14 mm
- Thread size
- M12x1.25
- Torque spec
- 36 Nm
- Gasket type
- Crush washer
Notes: 1st gen XU20 (3.0L/3.3L V6)
Fluid specifications
Transmission Fluid
Buy →- Type
- ATF WS
- Capacity
- 3.7 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Brake Fluid
Buy →- DOT type
- DOT 3
- Change interval
- 45,000 mi
Coolant
Buy →- Type
- Super Long Life
- Color
- Pink
- Capacity
- 6.4 qt
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Power Steering Fluid
Buy →- Type
- ATF Dexron III
Differential Fluid (rear)
Buy →- Type
- 75W-90 GL-5
- Capacity
- 2 qt
- Change interval
- 60,000 mi
Parts & specifications
Spark Plugs
- Type
- Iridium
- Gap
- 0.044
- Quantity
- 4
- Change interval
- 100,000 mi
Battery
- Group size
- 24F
- CCA
- 550
Tires
- Size
- 245/60R18
- Front pressure
- 33 PSI
- Rear pressure
- 33 PSI
Air Filter
Cabin Air Filter
Brake Pads
Wiper Blades
Maintenance schedule
Select a mileage interval above to see scheduled maintenance items.
Towing & Payload
Max Towing Capacity
5,000 lbs
Max Payload
1,175 lbs
Curb Weight
4,300 lbs
GVWR
5,540 lbs
Max Tongue Weight
500 lbs
Hitch Class
III
Source: manufacturer
Estimated Current Value
Original MSRP
$42,000
Private Party Value
$4,788 – $5,292
Dealer Retail Value
$5,544 – $6,300
Trade-In Value
$4,284 – $4,788
Depreciation
88%
Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.
Source: estimated
Safety recalls2
Technical Service Bulletins24
Torque specifications
- lug nut
- 76 ft-lbs / 103 Nm
- spark plug
- 18 ft-lbs / 24.4 Nm
Alloy wheels
14mm thread, aluminum head
Save by doing it yourself
A shop typically charges $70–$140 for this service. Buy the parts yourself and save.
Shop Parts for the Toyota Highlander
Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2003 Toyota Highlander on Amazon.
Tools & supplies
Step-by-step guide
Detailed walkthrough with tips for first-timers.
Read guide →How often to change oil
Intervals, severe service, and what your car needs.
Read guide →Synthetic vs. conventional
Which oil type is right for your engine and budget.
Read guide →Have info for this vehicle?
Help fellow owners — submit specs from your owner's manual.
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