I've had my 2000 for a year now, and the first time I got the oil changed, I took it to Jiffy Lube or another place like that. Now it's time to change it again, and I'd like to do it myself. I've found out that the easiest way is through the driver's side wheel well--at least that's what some people say. So, when I lift up the flap under there, what I see doesn't look like the oil filters I'm used to. There's a round cap with a nut in the middle. I'm assuming this is the filter housing. Well anyway, I don't know what the steps are for removing that cap and replacing the filter. If you could help me out, I'd appreciate it.

 

there should just be a filter there. on my 98 tacoma and my dads 97 4Runner (both 3.4s) you can see the filter from the driver wheel well. you got a pic of what youre talking bout?

 

http://www.4runners.org/writeups/oil/index.html


The oil filter is labeled "B"


Other maintenance can be found here: http://www.4runners.org/

 

http://www.ncttora.com/FSM/2003/Repa...e/oaf/repl.pdf

 

I now know that this ain't the filter, but what the heck is it? Is the filter lower than this photo is showing? Sorry about the quality. I was thinking originally that the round thing at the top of the picture must be the filter housing or something, but I don't think that anymore. I think I need to crank the wheel to the left and try looking again.

 

That is the 5VZFE oil cooler. The engine coolant is bypassed out of the water pump and into the cooler assembly. Thats what the hoses that are attached to it are.

The oil filter is to the left more towards the front of the motor.

 

Okay. I see. Thanks a bunch. I'll go out there and give it another look.