2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner Plastic Oil Filter Housing Replacement

Pre-Vacation Maintenance: Surprise Oil Change on Our “New-to-Us” 5th Gen Toyota 4Runner (2010–2024)

In classic we’re-hitting-the-road-so-something-will-go-wrong fashion, we decided to change the oil on our newly acquired 5th gen Toyota 4Runner before a big family vacation. This trusty 4Runner (2010–2024 generation) had been serviced by the selling dealer about 3000 miles ago, but peace of mind was the goal here.

What started as a quick pre-trip oil change turned into a minor wrench-turning mystery.

Here’s what we discovered under the skid plate:

• The original plastic oil filter housing was missing an ear. Yep—just gone. Maybe it joined a witness protection program?

• Some off-brand mystery filter was installed. No Toyota logo, no markings… just vibes.

• The housing drain plug was seized tighter than a jar of pickles after arm day.

Thankfully, we came prepared. We had an OEM Toyota oil filter, a shiny new aluminum oil filter housing, and all the bits needed to do the job the right way.

But then—plot twist. When comparing the new aluminum housing to the busted plastic one, we noticed the oil filter support tube was… shorter. Cue dramatic music. That little tube plays a big role: it keeps the oil filter from collapsing inward like a sad burrito.

After some strategic head-scratching and a little trial and error, we realized the support tubes were removable and swappable. Crisis averted!

Once everything was buttoned up, we cracked a cold one and admired our handiwork. Aside from fiddling with the 4Runner’s skid plate (always a bit of a wrestling match), this is a solid DIY job—even for first-time 5th gen owners.

When you're ready to tackle your oil change - Click Here

We use Amazon Affiliate links whenever possible, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to grab your parts through the links below. It doesn’t cost you anything extra—just helps keep the lights on and the wrenches spinning!

Tech Notes:

Oil Capacity 6.6 Qts. 0w20 oil (we typically use whatever is on sale)

https://amzn.to/48a60OK 2 gallon pack (save leftovers for next change!)

Toyota Oil Filter p/n 04152-YZZA5 https://amzn.to/483qLM4

Drain Plug Crush Washer p/n 90430-12031 https://amzn.to/4ieo131 (tighten plug to 30 ft lbs)

Housing Removal Tool https://amzn.to/3McOamQ

Aluminum Oil Filer Housing https://amzn.to/4a5D7pv (tighen to 18 ft lbs)