2021 Toyota Tacoma Maintenance & Specs

Everything you need to maintain your 2021 Toyota Tacoma — oil specs, maintenance schedule, recalls, and more.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic with a total capacity of 6.2 quarts (filter included). You’ll need a 14mm socket for the drain plug, torqued to 36 Nm. The OEM oil filter is the Toyota 04152-YZZA1, with 3 compatible alternatives listed below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.

Data last verified: April 30, 2026

OEM spec: ILSAC GF-6A

Quick DIY Tips for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma

  • Torque your drain plug to 36 Nm (27 ft-lbs) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.
  • Using the OEM filter (Toyota 04152-YZZA1) is recommended for warranty compliance.
  • Always use 0W-20 Full Synthetic as specified by Toyota — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
  • Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.

Oil

Viscosity
0W-20
Oil type
Full Synthetic
Capacity (with filter)
6.2 qt
Capacity (without filter)
5.8 qt
OEM notes: ILSAC GF-6A

Drain bolt & hardware

Socket size
14 mm
Thread size
M12x1.25
Torque spec
36 Nm
Gasket type
Crush washer
Notes: 3rd generation (3.5L V6)

Fluid specifications

Transmission Fluid

Buy →
Type
ATF WS
Capacity
5.2 qt
Change interval
50,000 mi

Brake Fluid

Buy →
DOT type
DOT 3
Change interval
45,000 mi

Coolant

Buy →
Type
Super Long Life
Color
Pink
Capacity
7.9 qt
Change interval
120,000 mi

Power Steering Fluid

Buy →
Type
ATF Dexron III

Differential Fluid (rear)

Buy →
Type
75W-90 GL-5
Capacity
2.5 qt
Change interval
60,000 mi

Differential Fluid (rear)

Buy →
Type
75W-90 GL-5
Capacity
2.5 qt
Change interval
60,000 mi

Parts & specifications

Maintenance schedule

Select a mileage interval above to see scheduled maintenance items.

Towing & Payload

Max Towing Capacity

6,800 lbs

Max Payload

1,685 lbs

Curb Weight

4,250 lbs

GVWR

5,800 lbs

Max Tongue Weight

680 lbs

Hitch Class

III

Source: manufacturer

Estimated Current Value

Original MSRP

$38,000

Private Party Value

$21,660 – $23,940

Dealer Retail Value

$25,080 – $28,500

Trade-In Value

$19,380 – $21,660

Depreciation

40%

Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.

Source: estimated

Technical Service Bulletins118

Torque specifications

lug nut
96 ft-lbs / 130.2 Nm

Alloy wheels

spark plug
18 ft-lbs / 24.4 Nm

14mm thread, aluminum head

Save by doing it yourself

A shop typically charges $70–$160 for this service. Buy the parts yourself and save.

Shop Oil & Filters →

Shop Parts for the Toyota Tacoma

Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma on Amazon.

Shop Parts →

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 →

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Help fellow owners — submit specs from your owner's manual.

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