Many drivers still adhere to the outdated “3,000 miles or 3 months” oil change interval. However, for your 2000 Toyota Avalon, modern oil technology and engine design mean you can extend those intervals significantly.
The manufacturer’s specification for your 2000 Avalon recommends 5W-30 SJ motor oil and a 5,000-mile or 4-month oil change interval. Upgrading to a high-quality synthetic oil and a good oil filter allows you to further extend this to a 7,500-mile or 6-month interval.
Switching to synthetic oil can often be cost-effective, especially when you find it on sale, sometimes even cheaper than conventional options. When selecting synthetic oil for your 2000 Toyota Avalon, focus on the 5W-30 viscosity and ensure it meets or exceeds the SN-PLUS or SP rating. You’re unlikely to find SJ-rated oils anymore as current standards have surpassed this, and these newer oils are backward compatible and perfectly suitable for older vehicles like your Avalon.
Don’t get too caught up on brand names. Reputable brands like Shell Rotella Gas Truck Full Synthetic, Kirkland Full Synthetic, and Walmart’s Supertech Synthetic are all excellent choices when on sale, as long as they meet the SN-PLUS or SP specifications. Websites like Slickdeals.net can be valuable resources for finding motor oil sales.
To understand more about motor oil ratings and why SN-PLUS or SP oils are sufficient for your 2000 Toyota Avalon, refer to resources from the API (American Petroleum Institute) which explain the donut label and oil classifications in detail. These resources will help you make informed decisions about maintaining your vehicle.
