How to Change the Motor Oil in a Toyota FJ Cruiser SUV

It would seem, to anyone who has changed motor oil in the past, that manufacturers should design a vehicle so that the oil filter can be easily accessed, given how often motor oil needs changed, and how simple of a task it is. Toyota has acknowledged this need, and implemented the useful feature into their FJ Cruiser monster-awesome SUV. The filter is located just under the hood, at the top, where it can be easily accessed by anyone changing the oil. Because of this convenience, changing the oil in an FJ Cruiser could not be easier.

Step 1

The first step is to jack the Cruiser up so that you can easily get under it. Never use a hydraulic or any type of pump jack if you're going to be under the vehicle; this is extremely dangerous. You should either use a hydraulic lift, which raises the entire car into the air, or drive the car onto ramps.

Step 2

Use a 14mm socket to remove the drainage bolt from the oil pan-the bolt is hidden behind a plastic cover, which you have to pry out of the way using a knife or screwdriver. Let the used oil drain into a bucket or pan until it is empty. Screw the bolt back into place (make sure that it is tight).

Step 3

Open the hood and locate the oil filter; it is right on the top, and obvious as soon as you peek around. Use an oil wrench, turning counter-clockwise, to remove the filter. Set it aside. Rub some oil on the filter gasket, then screw it into place. Do not over tighten-a few turns with the wrench should be fine.

Step 4

Put a funnel in the oil port and pour new oil into the engine. The amount needed will depend on your engine, but 6 quarts does it for me. Check the oil level with the dipstick before running. Once you're certain that the oil level is correct, turn the Cruiser on and look for leaks. If there are none, remove it from the ramp or lift and take it for a test drive.

NOTE: be sure to recycle of your motor oil properly. Never pour it down the drain or onto the ground.