The 2018 Toyota RAV4 uses a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a cap-and-housing assembly, not a traditional spin-on filter. During an oil change you replace the cartridge element and the O-ring in the housing, along with the engine oil.
Filter type and engine details
On the 2018 RAV4, powered by the 2.5L four-cylinder engine (A25A-FKS in many markets), the oil filter is a cartridge that sits inside a housing on the engine. This design requires replacing just the cartridge element and its O-ring during maintenance, rather than discarding a full canister filter.
Cartridge-style filter explained
The cartridge filter sits inside a removable housing cap. To replace it, you remove the cap with the appropriate tool, extract the old cartridge, swap in a new cartridge and O-ring, then reseal the housing and refill the engine with oil. Part numbers for the cartridge kit vary by market, so use a genuine Toyota cartridge kit or a reputable equivalent designed for the 2.5L RAV4 engine.
What you’ll need for a cartridge-filter replacement
- New oil filter cartridge element (for the 2.5L engine)
- New O-ring/gasket for the filter housing cap
- Correct engine oil specification (see below)
- Oil filter cap removal tool or suitable socket
- Drain pan, funnel, rags and basic hand tools
In practice, this cartridge setup means you replace only the cartridge and the O-ring during an oil change, not an entire filter canister.
Oil specifications and capacity
For the 2018 RAV4 with the 2.5L engine, the recommended oil is typically 0W-20 full synthetic (or a synthetic blend where approved by Toyota). The oil capacity with a filter change is about 4.7 quarts (approximately 4.4 liters). Always confirm the exact specification for your vehicle in the owner's manual or by checking the oil fill cap label, as regional requirements can vary.
Note: If you live in an area with extreme temperatures or drive under severe conditions, Toyota’s guidance may differ slightly. When in doubt, rely on the official manual or contact a Toyota dealership for the precise specification and capacity for your VIN.
Step-by-step replacement outline
These general steps outline how a cartridge-filter change is typically performed. Always consult the specific service manual for your model year and region, and observe all safety precautions.
- Warm up the engine, then turn it off and safely raise the front of the vehicle if needed. Place a drain pan under the oil pan.
- Carefully remove the drain plug to drain the old oil, then reinstall the plug once drained.
- Locate the oil filter housing on the engine. Remove the housing cap using the appropriate tool.
- Remove and discard the old oil filter cartridge from the housing.
- Remove the old O-ring, clean the cap and seating area, and install a new O-ring.
- Install the new cartridge into the housing and reseal with the cap. Torque the cap to the manufacturer’s specification.
- Replenish the engine with the recommended oil, start the engine, check for leaks, and verify the oil level on the dipstick. Reset the oil-change indicator if applicable.
After completing these steps, dispose of the used oil and old filter according to local regulations and recycle programs.
Summary
In short, the 2018 Toyota RAV4 uses a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a cap, not a traditional spin-on filter. When changing the oil, replace the cartridge element and the housing O-ring, use the recommended 0W-20 oil, and plan for roughly 4.7 quarts of oil. For exact part numbers and torque specifications, consult the owner’s manual or a Toyota service specialist.
What oil filter does a 2018 RAV4 use?
04152-YZZA1) Genuine Toyota original equipment oil filter for your Toyota vehicle. Engineered and specified by Toyota, this is the same filter as that which would be installed by your dealer.
What type of oil filter does RAV4 use?
The oil is 0W-16, any major brand will do, and the OEM filter is 90915-YZZN1 which you can find both online. There's an aluminum gasket for the drain plug that you should be changing each time too. Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-16 as per the manual, and a Mobil 1 filter that fits the car. No need to overcomplicate it.
What type of oil does my 2018 Toyota RAV4 take?
2019 – 2026 RAV4 (Gas, Hybrid, & Prime): SAE 0W-16 Full Synthetic. 2013 – 2018 RAV4: SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20 Full Synthetic.
Where's the oil filter on a 2018 Toyota RAV4?
While the oil drains, you can find the oil filter by moving toward the front of the vehicle from the drain plug. The oil filter housing itself will have a drain plug at the bottom. Use a 3/8-inch drive extension to loosen the drain plug, and remove it by hand.