1996 Toyota Avalon Owners Manual - Page 174

Engine oil selection Use API SH, "Energy-Conserving II" multigrade engine oil or ILSAC multigrade engine oil. Recommended viscosity (SAE): Oil identification marks Either or both API registered marks are added to some oil containers to help you select the oil you should use. The API Service Symbol is located anywhere on the outside of the container. The top portion of the label shows the oil quality by API (American Petroleum Institute) designations such as SH. The center portion of the label shows the SAE viscosity grade such as SAE 5W-30. "EnergyConserving II" shown in the lower portion, indicates that the oil has fuel-saving capabilities. Oils marked "Energy-Conserving II" will have higher fuel-saving capabilities than oils marked "Energy-Conserving". The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the front of the container. API service symbol SAE 5W-30 is the best choice for your vehicle, for good fuel economy and good starting in cold weather. If you use SAE 10W-30 engine oil in extremely low temperatures, the engine may become difficult to start, so SAE 5W-30 engine oil is recommended. ILSAC certification mark 168