Quick answer: Complete Oil Change on a 2018–2024 Toyota Camry is rated Easy and takes about 45 minutes. You'll need 9 tools for this job, and parts cost about $40. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
Oil spec
2.5L 4-cyl (A25A-FKS)
Capacity 4.8 qt with filter Viscosity 0W-16 (alt: 0W-20)
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Engine Oil (0W-16 Synthetic) |
— |
$30.00 |
|
| Oil filter cartridge element kit (with O-rings) |
— |
$10.00 |
|
| Drain plug crush washer |
— |
— |
|
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
1
Prepare the Vehicle
The 2018-2024 Camry's 2.5L A25A-FKS four-cylinder takes 4.8 quarts of 0W-16 meeting API SN/RC. Toyota allows 0W-20 in a pinch, but it should be replaced with 0W-16 at the next change. It uses a cartridge filter in a housing under the engine, behind an access panel held by four 10mm screws. Have a 14mm socket for the drain plug, a filter wrench, a new crush washer, and a funnel ready. Park on level ground with the engine warm.
2
Lift and Secure the Vehicle
Set the parking brake and chock the wheels. Lift the front at the pinch-weld points and support the Camry on jack stands — never rely on the jack alone. Remove the four 10mm access-panel screws to expose the drain plug and filter housing.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I lift the Camry and set the stands, then I shake it like I mean it. An oil change is quick, but I am still under the car, and I have seen a stand sink into hot asphalt. The shake test is my ritual.
3
Drain the Old Oil
Remove the oil fill cap to vent the crankcase. Position the drain pan under the oil pan, remove the 14mm drain plug, and drain the oil fully. The plug tightens to about 30 N·m (22 ft-lb) with a new crush washer on reinstall. Wipe the pan flange clean.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
I drain the Camry oil and I torque that drain plug — I never go by feel on an aluminum pan. I have seen a stripped drain plug turn a twenty-minute oil change into a pan-replacement weekend.
4
Replace the Oil Filter
Pull out the old element and the housing O-ring; fit the new O-ring (lightly oiled) and element, then thread the housing back on and tighten it to the specification in your owner's manual.
5
Reinstall the Drain Plug
Reinstall the drain plug with a new crush washer to about 30 N·m (22 ft-lb), flat side of the washer toward the bolt tip. Refit the access panel and lower the vehicle to level ground. Pour in 4.8 quarts of 0W-16 through a funnel, then check the dipstick and confirm the level is at the full mark.
6
Add New Oil and Verify
Start the engine for 30 seconds, shut it off, and inspect the filter housing and plug for leaks. Recheck the level after a short drive. Reset the maintenance reminder through the cluster, then recycle the used oil, element, and O-ring.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I add the new Camry oil and verify — and I keep one drain pan for oil, separate from my coolant pan. I have mixed the two once and learned both become unrecyclable, so now the pans are labeled and never shared.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Over-tightening the oil filter
- • Not properly securing the drain plug
- • Failing to check the oil level after the change
