2004 Sequoia Oil Changes

[Lyno1279]

Hi -

I have a 2004 Sequoia that is new to me 15k ago. It has 155k on it. The last oil change I put Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5w30 in it and plan to go 7,500 miles. I noticed recently (6k into the oil change) that there is a slow leak at the oil filter (also an Mobil 1 filter). I've tried tightening with a filter wrench and can't get the leak to stop. The oil level is relatively stable. Should I go the rest of the 7,500? Should I go further on this oil change?

Second question, I replaced t-case and rear diff with Mobil 1 75w90 but couldn't do front diff cause I stripped the drain bolt. The mechanic I brought it to replaced with Valvoline Syn 75w90. I was planning to change all three again at 15k due to some towing I do throughout year (camper and raft/trailer). What's your take on 15k oil changes Mobil 1 vs Valvoline Syn?

 

[Realtech214]

I would leave the filter alone just keep an eye on oil level.

As for the diffs and TC i would say more like 50K mile changes.

-Don

 

[Lyno1279]

Thanks for the quick reply, Don. Let me confirm with a few more details. The car is driven mainly within 10 miles of our house as a kid hauler. My wife doesn't abuse or drive it too hard, but she's not real mindful of the short distances she is having to drive on a cold engine. 4-wheel is used sparingly during the winter, maybe 20-30x throughout the winter months. The scheduled maintenance guide shows recommended changes every 15k for special operating conditions like towing. I thought maybe that applied to me.

Additional thoughts?

 

[Merkava_4]

I'd replace the oil filter and not over tighten it next time. Those filter gaskets will get cut if the filter is put on too tight. As far as the drain plug on the transfer case, I'd get a better wrench that doesn't slip.

 

[wirelessF]

Check if the oil filter base on the engine block is leaking. These engines use a sandwich oil cooler where the oil filter screws on. The threaded part has a hex where you can remove the cooler to replace the gasket between the block and cooler.

 

[Sequoiasoon]

I have a 2003 Sequoia currently with 105k. I do 7500 changes and it has been on either Mobil 1, Pennzoil Platinum, Pennzoil Ultra Platinum for pretty much all it's life. It is also mostly around town so 7500k is once per year for me. Go through the manual for other recommendations. Toyota recommends using 4wd once per month and driving for 10 miles. You can do this by just engaging the AWD but NOT locking the center differential. This keeps all the parts moving and lubricated as well as all the solenoids to engage.

I only drive it 1-2 times per month so normally engage it and also find a straight area so I can lock the center diff and also use low range.

Was the timing belt done? 90-100k was recommended. It is an interference motor so if it breaks, big bucks and many parts.

You can find a lot info on tundrasolutions.com as there is separate Sequoia sub forums on it. Toyotanation also has one. Many "fixes" discussed and documented like the rear window not working, water leak in rear and/or passengers floor, broken rear latch. Been there....done all them!

 

[tig1]

If an oil filter is over tightened it can leak. Just losen it up and re-tighten to 3/4 to one turn after gasket contact.

 

[Realtech214]

My 2003 silverado Does not list in the OM to change the Diff fluid ever! Just to keep it topped off. It also say to change transmission fluid at 50K miles for towing, 100K for regular driving

 

[live_to_hunt]

I have a 2006 Sequoia it has 113,000 on it I use Pennzoil conventional I am
Old school its changed every 3000 miles. I did the transfer case front and rear differentials at 100k the front diff and transfer case looked brand new the rear was I light brown. I used Mobil 1 gear oil.