2008–2014 Scion xD

2008-2014 Scion xD — Engine Oil & Filter Change

By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026

🔧🔧 Moderate 30-60 minutes $57 DIY

Save $63 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $120

Quick answer: Engine Oil & Filter Change on a 2008–2014 Scion xD is rated Moderate and takes about 30-60 minutes. You'll need 2 tools for this job, and parts cost about $57. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

Total Cost

$57.00

Oil spec 1.8L 4-cyl

Capacity 4.4 qt with filter Viscosity 0W-20 (alt: 5W-20)

Part Name	Part Number	Price	Buy
Engine Oil (0W-20)	—	$45.00	Amazon
Correct engine oil filter and drain-plug washer for 2008-2014 Scion xD	—	$12.00	Amazon

About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.

💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

Confirm the xD's oil spec and buy the right filter

The 2ZR-FE 1.8L takes 4.4 quarts (4.2L) of 0W-20. It uses a cartridge ELEMENT (Toyota 04152-YZZA6), not a spin-on — buy the element plus fresh housing O-rings. Park level and raise the front on ramps or jack stands.

Locate the cartridge housing and drain plug

The cartridge housing is at the front of the engine, reached from below behind the front bumper. The 14mm drain plug is under the oil pan. A short ratchet extension keeps your hands clear of the radiator fans.

Drain the oil and swap the cartridge element

Drain fully. Unscrew housing cap with a cap wrench — don't crack the plastic — fit new O-rings pre-lubed. Seat the new element, reinstall the cap, and tighten to spec. Expect extra oil when cracking the cap — drain-back valve.

🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker

I keep the pan close when I crack that cap — the drain-back valve dumps a little extra oil right when I'm not expecting it. The first time it got me, and only the first time.

Reinstall the plug and refill

Refit the drain plug and lower car. Pour in 4.4 quarts of 0W-20. Wait a minute, then check dipstick — give it time to settle. Adding over half a quart between changes means a valve-cover seep — check there first.

Check for leaks and verify the level

Run 30 seconds; check the plug and housing for leaks. Shut off, wait two minutes, and recheck the dipstick. Recycle the old oil and element. Recheck the level after your first drive, once the new element is fully saturated.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong viscosity, capacity, or filter
• Working under a vehicle supported only by a jack
• Reusing a crushed drain-plug washer or leaving the old filter gasket stuck
• Over-tightening the filter or drain plug
• Starting the engine without first verifying oil was added

Tools You'll Need

Floor jack or ramps and rated jack stands if needed Oil-drain pan, funnel, gloves, and eye protection Socket or wrench for the drain plug and oil-filter tool Calibrated torque wrench and shop towels

⚠️ Safety First!

• Informational DIY. EZ Car Fix is not a shop.
• Work on level ground with the engine off and only safely supported by ramps or rated jack stands; never rely on a jack alone.
• Verify oil viscosity, capacity, filter, and drain-plug washer for the exact engine. Do not mix fluids or overfill.
• Hot oil can burn. Wear gloves and eye protection, keep spills away from tires, and dispose of used oil at an approved collection point.
• Stop if the drain plug, filter housing, pan, or threads are damaged or leaking.