The 2016 Toyota Tacoma is a rugged, reliable mid-size truck built on the Toyota LN platform, designed to handle everything from daily commuting to serious off-road adventures. Under the hood of the base model, you will find the 2.7-liter four-cylinder 2TR-FE engine, a durable powerplant known for its longevity but one that requires specific maintenance to keep performing at its best. The key to extending the life of this engine lies in using high-quality lubricants that meet the exact viscosity and performance standards required by the manufacturer.
Proper lubrication is not merely about preventing wear; it is about maximizing fuel efficiency, reducing operating temperatures, and ensuring the engine starts reliably in cold weather. For the 2.7-liter engine, the manufacturer specifies 0W-20 viscosity motor oil, a thin fluid designed to flow quickly at startup and maintain a protective film under load. Beyond the crankcase, the transmission, cooling system, and brake hydraulics all rely on precise fluid formulations to operate safely. Using the wrong fluid can lead to poor shifting, overheating, or compromised braking performance. By selecting the correct AMSOIL products, owners can ensure their Tacoma receives superior protection against wear, sludge, and extreme temperatures, whether they are towing heavy loads or navigating dusty trails.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides up to 25,000 miles of protection against horsepower loss and wear, ensuring maximum performance in both extreme cold and high heat.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers 20,000 miles of guaranteed protection with enhanced cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoother for longer intervals.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A premium synthetic option that fights sludge and deposits, delivering protection that outperforms conventional oils while meeting OEM requirements.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for vehicles over 75,000 miles with boosted detergents and anti-wear additives to reduce sludge and improve performance.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Features a synthetic media that provides 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns and lower restriction to keep engine parts properly lubricated and clean.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium aftermarket filter with media that offers improvements over standard OEM-branded filters, ensuring reliable oil flow and contaminant removal.
- WIX Air Filter – Includes premium media designed to improve airflow and filtration, offering better performance than original equipment manufacturer branded filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed formulation protecting the cooling system up to 150,000 miles or 5 years with unique OAT technology that is safe for all metals and hoses.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula that allows for extended protection up to 150,000 miles and 5 years in passenger cars and light trucks, surpassing corrosion standards.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions for all automatic transmissions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides excellent protection against wear and deposits, designed to work with modern automatic transmissions for smooth shifting.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube – Protects against increased heat and pressure while featuring friction modifiers that safeguard brass synchronizers and provide excellent cold-flow properties.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity over a wide temperature range for consistent braking performance.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Offers advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway for front and rear differentials, helping reduce operating temperatures and controlling rust.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A versatile fluid suitable for power steering systems and automatic transmissions, withstanding heavy loads and providing reserve protection during abuse.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Resists sludge and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts while guarding against leaks and ensuring excellent cold-weather performance.
Engine Oil and Filtration Requirements
The heart of the 2016 Tacoma’s 2.7-liter engine is a durable four-cylinder block that benefits significantly from the use of 0W-20 viscosity synthetic motor oil. The engine capacity for an oil change, including the filter, is 6.2 quarts. This specific oil grade is critical for optimal fuel economy and cold-weather starting performance. When the oil is at the correct level, it ensures that internal components are properly lubricated, minimizing friction and heat generation.
Selecting the right oil filter is just as important as choosing the right fluid. The AMSOIL Oil Filter is engineered to trap 99 percent of harmful contaminants at 20 microns, preventing them from circulating back into the engine. This high-efficiency filtration extends engine life by keeping oil cleaner for longer. For those preferring a high-quality aftermarket alternative, the WIX Oil Filter also offers premium media that outperforms many original equipment filters. Both filters are designed with lower restriction, ensuring oil flow is never impeded, which is vital for maintaining oil pressure at high RPMs or under load.
Transmission and Differential Lubricants
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma offers both automatic and manual transmission options, each requiring specific fluids to function correctly. For models equipped with the automatic transmission, such as the AC60E or AC60F, a total fill requires 9.1 quarts. Initial fill capacity is significantly lower at 1.6 quarts. These transmissions operate under high stress, particularly when towing or driving off-road. The AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed to withstand these rigors, maintaining fluidity in sub-zero temperatures and protecting against the high shear forces encountered during heavy use.
For manual transmission owners, the vehicle uses a GL-4 fluid specification. The capacity for the manual unit is 4.6 pints. The AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube is ideal for this application, offering outstanding cold-flow properties and protection for brass synchronizers. The friction modifiers in this lube help ensure smooth gear engagement while protecting against rust and corrosion. Proper lubrication here prevents the wear and grinding that can occur when shifting gears is not smooth.
The differential systems in the Tacoma require specialized gear lubes as well. Both front and rear differentials typically require GL-5 rated fluids. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is recommended for these units. It provides advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway, which is critical in heavy-duty applications. This synthetic fluid helps reduce operating temperatures and controls rust, extending the life of the seals and gears. It contains friction modifiers suitable for limited-slip applications, ensuring optimal performance in all driving conditions.
Cooling, Braking, and Seasonal Maintenance
Maintaining the proper temperature of the engine is essential for the longevity of the 2016 Tacoma. The cooling system capacity varies by transmission type, with the automatic requiring 9.1 quarts and the manual requiring 9.2 quarts. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a 50/50 pre-mixed solution that protects the cooling system up to 150,000 miles or five years. Its unique OAT formulation is compatible with all cooling system metals and hoses, ensuring no corrosion occurs over time. For those who prefer mixing their own fluid, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant is a concentrated option that offers the same long-lasting protection and requires mixing with distilled water.
Brake safety is paramount in any vehicle, especially a truck designed for hauling. The 2016 Tacoma requires DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid provides a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent pedal feel and responsiveness. This fluid is compatible with ABS and traction-control systems, offering superior protection against moisture absorption and boiling, which can lead to brake failure under heavy use.
For seasonal storage or to prepare for winter, the AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup. Additionally, the AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil can be used to protect internal engine components during long periods of inactivity, preventing rust and corrosion. These products ensure that when the Tacoma is ready to go, it starts and runs as smoothly as the day it left the factory.
About the 2016 Toyota Tacoma
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma is widely recognized as one of the most capable and enduring mid-size pickup trucks on the road. Built on the Toyota LN platform, it continues the legacy of Tacoma durability that has made the model a favorite among off-road enthusiasts and work-site professionals alike. This generation of Tacoma is available in several configurations, including the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road, each offering varying levels of equipment and capability to suit different needs.
While the higher-end models feature a powerful V-6 engine, the base model for 2016 comes equipped with the 2.7-liter 2TR-FE four-cylinder engine. This engine produces around 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful option, it is celebrated for its remarkable reliability and fuel efficiency. The engine is paired with either a five-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission, providing drivers with the control they need for both highway cruising and technical off-road maneuvers. The truck’s independent front suspension and solid rear axle combination contribute to its smooth ride quality and serious off-road prowess.
Owners of the 2016 Tacoma often appreciate its versatility. It strikes a balance between a comfortable daily driver and a tough workhorse. Whether used for hauling camping gear, navigating rugged trails, or simply commuting to work, the Tacoma is known for its longevity and low cost of ownership. The cabin is functional and spacious, offering a comfortable environment for crews or individuals. With a towing capacity that can exceed 3,500 pounds in many configurations, the Tacoma is more than just a weekend toy; it is a practical vehicle for serious tasks. Keeping this engine and drivetrain properly lubricated ensures that the vehicle can continue to serve its owners faithfully for years to come, maintaining its reputation for quality and dependability.