How much oil does an IS250 differential take?
The rear differential on a Lexus IS250 typically requires about 1.6 to 1.8 quarts (1.5 to 1.7 liters) of gear oil, depending on whether the car is rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and on model year. Exact capacity can vary, so check the manual or service data for your specific vehicle.
The IS250 is offered in both RWD and AWD configurations, and some model years may have variations in the differential type (open vs. limited-slip). This article outlines typical capacities, recommended oil specifications, and basic service guidelines to help you plan a change.
Capacity by drivetrain
The following figures are typical values and may vary slightly by year, LSD option, or production changes. Use them as a guideline and verify with official documentation for your exact car.
- Rear-wheel-drive IS250: approximately 1.6 quarts (1.5 liters) of gear oil.
- All-wheel-drive IS250: approximately 1.8 quarts (1.7 liters) of gear oil.
Capacities can differ with specific LSD configurations or updated service specifications. Always confirm with your owner's manual or a Lexus service bulletin for your exact year and model.
Oil specification and service practices
Oil type and quality
Use a high-quality GL-5 gear oil in the appropriate viscosity for your climate, typically 75W-90. Lexus and Toyota manuals commonly recommend 75W-90 GL-5 for the rear differential, whether in RWD or AWD configurations. Synthetic or high-grade conventional oils that meet the GL-5 standard are acceptable. If your IS250 has a limited-slip or other special differential, confirm any specific additive requirements with the manual or dealer.
Filling and level checking
To fill the differential, locate the fill plug on the differential housing (usually near the top when the car is level). Remove the fill plug and add oil until it begins to seep slightly from the hole, then reinstall the plug with a new washer. After filling, check for leaks and ensure the car remains level during the process to avoid under- or over-filling.
Maintenance interval and tips
Differential oil changes are typically performed as part of scheduled maintenance, commonly around every 60,000 miles (about 96,000 kilometers) or longer under normal highway driving. If you frequently drive in severe conditions (towing, heavy loads, high-temperature climates, or frequent stop-and-go), consider inspecting and replacing the oil sooner. Always replace the drain plug gasket or washer when you drain the oil.
Summary
For the IS250, plan for about 1.6 qt (1.5 L) of gear oil in RWD models and about 1.8 qt (1.7 L) in AWD models, using a GL-5 75W-90 gear oil. Verify exact capacity with your year-specific manual, and follow proper filling procedures to ensure correct oil level and differential performance. Regular checks and timely changes help maintain differential health and drivetrain reliability.
How many quarts of differential oil do I need?
The amount of differential oil needed varies by vehicle, but most require between 1 and 4 quarts for a single axle, with some requiring more. The best way to determine the exact quantity is to consult your car's owner's manual, which will specify the correct oil type and capacity. You can also find the information online for your specific make and model, and remember to always check the fluid level by filling until it starts to seep out of the fill hole.
General guidance
- Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for the exact amount and type of fluid needed for your specific vehicle.
- Look up your vehicle's specifications online: If you don't have the manual, search online for your vehicle's make, model, and year to find its differential fluid capacity.
- Consider purchasing slightly more than you need: It is a good idea to have a little extra on hand. Since you will be filling until the oil starts to seep out, you may not need the full amount listed, but it is better to have it than to run out.
- Use the fill-to-the-hole method: After draining the old fluid, fill the differential with new fluid until it begins to slowly drip out of the fill plug hole. This ensures you do not overfill.
- Fill the fill hole before the drain plug: To avoid draining the new oil you just added, always remove the fill plug first, and then the drain plug. This way, if you can't get the fill plug out, you won't have drained the old fluid unnecessarily.
How much oil does a IS250 diff hold?
1.20 qt.
IS250 (2WD models): 1.20 qt. (1.15 L, 1.01 lmp. qt.)
PDF
What kind of rear diff fluid does a 2011 Lexus IS250 take?
2006-2015 Lexus IS250 AWD 2.5L V6 204HP. Position: Rear Differential. Notes: Fully Synthetic Hypoid Gear Oil (GL4/5) 75W-90, 1 Liter -- Application temperature: year-round; 1.22 Quart (qt) Capacity.
How much oil goes in a Lexus IS 250?
Capacity: 6.6 quarts (with filter). RWD. After refill check oil level.
