The 2008 Toyota Sequoia with the 5.7L 8-cylinder engine (Engine Code 3UR-FE 5) is a robust full-size SUV designed for heavy-duty tasks. Owners often use this vehicle for towing, hauling, and navigating rough terrain, which places significant stress on the engine and drivetrain components. Proper lubrication is not just about meeting manufacturer maintenance intervals; it is about ensuring maximum protection against wear, extreme temperatures, and the specific demands of the 3UR-FE powerplant. Using the correct viscosity and high-quality synthetic formulations can extend the life of the engine, improve fuel efficiency, and maintain performance over the long term. Toyota recommends 5W-20 or 0W-20 for this application, but AMSOIL Signature Series, Extended-Life, OE, and High-Mileage synthetic motor oils provide superior protection and longer service intervals than conventional oils or the standard recommendations.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The top-tier choice for maximum engine protection against horsepower loss and wear, offering up to 25,000 miles of service intervals.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent option for drivers seeking extended service intervals of up to 20,000 miles with enhanced cleaning power to keep the engine running smoothly.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective synthetic option that fights sludge and deposits, delivering reliable protection that outperforms conventional oils.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents to reduce sludge and protect older engines.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Designed to provide 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns with greater capacity for small contaminants than competing filters.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium aftermarket option with media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer branded filters.
- WIX Air Filter – Features premium media to improve engine airflow and filtration performance over standard OEM-branded units.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation protecting cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formulation that greatly surpasses standards for corrosion and erosion protection in passenger cars and light trucks.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A reliable synthetic transmission fluid that protects against wear and promotes smooth shifting.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway for transfer cases and limited-slip differentials.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – An excellent synthetic alternative for gear applications requiring high performance under load.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Specifically recommended for the front and rear GL-5 differentials to control operating temperatures and extend seal life.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Ideal for power steering systems requiring DEXRON-III fluid, withstanding heavy towing and high heat.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A versatile synthetic fluid that resists sludge and guards against leaks for smooth, shudder-free operation.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – Restores horsepower and GDI fuel injector flow rate, improving fuel economy and controlling pre-ignition knock.
Engine Oil Specifications and Capacities
The 5.7L 8-cylinder 3UR-FE engine in the 2008 Toyota Sequoia requires specific attention to oil viscosity to ensure optimal performance in all driving conditions. The factory recommends a 5W-20 viscosity for this engine, though 0W-20 is also an acceptable all-temperature option per Toyota specifications. For a complete oil change including the AMSOIL Oil Filter or WIX Oil Filter, the engine holds 7.4 quarts of oil. It is crucial to check the oil level after refilling and to torque the oil drain plug to 30 ft/lbs. The engine oil change interval can be extended significantly when using Signature Series synthetic motor oil, which offers protection for up to 25,000 miles or one year. Extended-Life and OE formulations allow for 20,000 miles, while the High-Mileage version is recommended for vehicles over 75,000 miles with up to 12,000 miles of service. The engine oil filter must be replaced at every oil change to ensure maximum protection against contaminants.
Automatic Transmission and Drivetrain Fluids
The automatic transmission in the 2008 Sequoia is a complex unit that benefits greatly from high-quality synthetic fluid. The specific transmission type depends on the model configuration, with options including the A750F, A750E, AB60E, and AB60F. Each of these units has a total fill capacity of 11 quarts, though the initial fill amounts vary slightly by model (ranging from 1.8 to 2.2 quarts). For these transmissions, Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is the top recommendation. It is engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain while maintaining fluidity in sub-zero conditions. The OE Fuel-Efficient alternative is also suitable, offering reliable protection against wear and smooth shifting. For power steering, which uses DEXRON-III fluid, the Signature Series Multi-Vehicle or OE Multi-Vehicle automatic transmission fluids are compatible and provide excellent resistance to sludge and heat.
Differential and Transfer Case Lubrication
For the differential and transfer case components, SEVERE GEAR® synthetic gear lubes provide superior protection compared to conventional mineral oils. The front and rear differentials both utilize a GL-5 lubricant with a 75W-85 viscosity requirement. Each differential holds a specific volume, with the front requiring 4.4 pints and the rear requiring 3.4 pints. The transfer case capacity is listed as 3 pints, though the specific model may vary (U/K TRC). SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the ideal choice for the front and rear axles, offering advanced protection against wear, thermal runaway, and rust while helping to reduce operating temperatures. For the transfer case, SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 is recommended for its ability to handle heavy loads and protect limited-slip differentials with appropriate friction modifiers. These synthetic gear lubes help extend the life of seals and equipment, ensuring smooth power delivery to the wheels.
Coolant, Brake Fluid, and Fuel Care
Maintaining the cooling system is vital for the longevity of the 3UR-FE engine. The 2008 Toyota Sequoia requires a significant amount of coolant, with a total capacity of approximately 14.5 to 15.5 quarts depending on the specific radiator configuration (OCOOL1 or OCOOL14.5). AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a unique OAT formulation that offers protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years. Alternatively, the Propylene Glycol Antifreeze provides a concentrated option that delivers exceptional corrosion protection. For the braking system, AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is the recommended choice. It ensures excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems while maintaining a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range. Finally, for fuel system health, AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver is a powerful gasoline additive that restores up to 14% horsepower and cleans GDI injectors, helping to prevent carbon buildup and improve overall engine efficiency.
About the Vehicle
The 2008 Toyota Sequoia represents the second generation of this iconic full-size SUV, offering a blend of rugged capability and family-friendly utility. Introduced to replace the T100, the Sequoia shares its platform with the Toyota Tundra pickup truck, providing a sturdy frame capable of handling significant loads and towing requirements. This particular model year features the powerful 5.7L V8 engine, known as the 3UR-FE, which delivers substantial horsepower and torque, making it one of the more capable non-towing-focused SUVs of its era. The Sequoia is designed with a focus on durability, often used by families for outdoor adventures, camping trips, or as a daily driver in regions with harsh weather. Its large interior space allows it to seat up to eight passengers, making it a versatile choice for large groups. The vehicle’s suspension is tuned to balance a comfortable ride with the stiffness needed for stability during towing. Owners of the 2008 Sequoia generally appreciate its reliability, strong resale value, and the confidence it inspires when carrying heavy cargo or traversing uneven roads. While it is a larger vehicle that may require more fuel, its performance and engineering have established a reputation for enduring long-term use in diverse driving conditions.