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What is the Lexus service schedule?

The service schedule for Lexus vehicles is built around an A/B maintenance cadence that typically triggers every 5,000 miles (about 8,000 km) or every 6 months, whichever comes first. The A and B services alternate as you accumulate miles, and the Maintenance Minder on your dashboard tells you exactly which service you need and when to perform it.


How the A and B maintenance cadence works


Most Lexus models follow a repeating A/B cycle, with A representing essential routine maintenance and B adding additional inspections and replacements. This cadence continues as you accumulate miles, commonly at 5,000-mile/6-month intervals, then 10,000 miles/12 months for the next step, and so on.



  • Oil and oil filter change

  • Tire rotation and inspection

  • Comprehensive inspection of brakes, steering, suspension, lights, and wipers

  • Fluid level checks and top-offs (engine, transmission, coolant, braking, etc.)

  • Maintenance Minder code update and light reset as needed

  • Overall vehicle health check, including belts, hoses, and exhaust components


In short, A and B services alternate every 5,000 miles, with the tasks becoming more comprehensive at the B interval. The exact items and timing can vary by model year and driving conditions, so always refer to your specific vehicle’s maintenance minder signals and owner’s manual.


Maintenance Minder and model variability


All Lexus cars use a Maintenance Minder system to tailor service needs to your vehicle and driving style. The minder analyzes engine parameters and driving conditions to determine the next service, which can result in different timelines even among similar models.



  • The dashboard will display maintenance codes (often A or B) indicating the next required service.

  • Codes may change based on how the car is driven (city vs. highway, climate, loads, etc.).

  • Some markets and model lines may include additional intervals (such as C or D) for more extensive maintenance at higher mileage.

  • Always confirm a VIN-specific schedule with a dealership or in the owner’s portal, since items can differ by model year and trim.


Because of these variances, it’s important to rely on the vehicle’s Maintenance Minder as the primary guide, rather than a fixed calendar for every model.


Hybrid and newer model considerations


What to expect for Lexus hybrids and recent models


Lexus hybrids follow the same general A/B cadence, but they include checks specific to hybrid propulsion and high-voltage systems. Expect added focus on the hybrid battery cooling system, regeneration-related brake wear, and charging system health, in addition to the standard A/B items.



  • Hybrid system inspection and operation checks

  • High-voltage battery health and cooling system inspection

  • Brake system inspection with attention to regenerative braking components

  • Engine air filter and cabin air filter replacement as needed per the Minder signs

  • Fluids and cooling system checks relevant to hybrid operation


As with gasoline models, exact tasks for hybrids vary by year and model, so consult the Maintenance Minder and dealer recommendations for your VIN.


How to confirm and manage your schedule


To stay aligned with the correct maintenance timeline, use the following resources and practices:



  • Check the owner’s manual and the maintenance section for the recommended cadence for your model year.

  • Use the Lexus MyLexus app or website to view the Maintenance Minder status and upcoming services.

  • Ask your dealership for a VIN-specific maintenance plan and obtain service estimates based on your driving conditions.

  • Keep a personal record of all services performed, including oil type, filter changes, and parts replaced.


Regularly following the Maintenance Minder and keeping records helps protect warranty coverage and preserves vehicle performance and resale value.


Summary


Lexus generally follows an A/B maintenance cadence, alternating every 5,000 miles (about 8,000 km) or 6 months, with the Maintenance Minder guiding exact tasks. A services cover routine items like oil changes and inspections, while B services add more comprehensive checks and replacements (notably air filters and deeper inspections). Hybrids and newer models include additional checks for the hybrid system and high-voltage components. Always rely on the Maintenance Minder and VIN-specific guidance from your dealer to confirm exact schedules and included services.

How do I know what maintenance my Lexus needs?


What Lexus Service Do I Need? When your Lexus Maintenance Required light pops on, usually it indicates that you need a 5,000-mile service. This includes basic maintenance like: Engine oil change.



What is the difference between Lexus service 2 and 3?


Essentially, Service 1 does not include an oil change, Service 2 includes an oil change and vehicle inspection and tire rotation (if required), and Service 3 includes an oil change, vehicle inspection, tire rotation (if required), and brake servicing.



What is the recommended maintenance schedule?


A recommended maintenance schedule for a car typically follows a 30-60-90 mile pattern, but you should always consult your owner's manual for specifics. Key tasks include regular oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotations, and replacing components like filters, belts, and spark plugs at specific intervals, which are detailed in your vehicle's manual.
 
Routine maintenance (every 3,000-10,000 miles) 

  • Change the oil and check fluids: Intervals vary depending on your car and the type of oil used (conventional vs. synthetic). 
  • Inspect brake pads, calipers, and rotors: Look for signs of wear. 
  • Rotate tires: Follow your owner's manual for the recommended schedule and adjust tire pressure as needed. 
  • Check and adjust fluid levels: This includes power steering, coolant, and brake fluid. 
  • Replace filters: The engine air filter and cabin air filter should be replaced annually. 

Mileage-based milestones
30,000 miles 
  • What to expect: Lighter wear and tear items are typically addressed. 
  • Services may include:
    • More thorough inspection of various components. 
    • Replacing certain fluids like brake fluid (around 25,000 miles or every 2 years) or power steering fluid (around 40,000 miles or every 3 years). 
    • Checking and replacing any items recommended by the manufacturer. 

60,000 miles 
  • What to expect: Deeper parts of the vehicle require more attention. 
  • Services may include:
    • Inspection and replacement of components that have experienced more significant wear. 
    • Changing transmission fluid and filter. 
    • Replacing spark plugs, if not done sooner. 

90,000 miles 
  • What to expect: Major systems need to be refreshed to prevent serious wear. 
  • Services may include:
    • Replacing the engine coolant, especially if it has extended-life coolant. 
    • Replacing the timing belt, if your vehicle has one. 
    • A comprehensive inspection of the engine, transmission, and other major systems. 



What is the recommended maintenance schedule for Lexus?


Lexus recommends a service every 5,000 miles or 6 months, which includes an oil and filter change, tire rotation, and various inspections. Key maintenance items recur at higher mileage intervals, such as brake fluid replacement at 30,000 miles, spark plug replacement at 60,000 miles, and timing belt replacement at 90,000 miles (for applicable models). 
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months 

  • Rotate tires
  • Inspect and adjust all fluid levels
  • Inspect brake pads, calipers, and rotors
  • Inspect wiper blades
  • Perform a road test
  • Check installation of the driver's floor mat
  • Program Lexus Personalized Settings if requested 

Every 10,000 miles or 12 months 
  • Replace engine oil and oil filter
  • Replace cabin air filter
  • Inspect brake pads, calipers, and rotors
  • Inspect wiper blades
  • Perform a road test
  • Reset the scheduled maintenance reminder 

Every 15,000 miles or 18 months 
  • Inspect engine air filter
  • Inspect chassis nuts and bolts
  • Inspect body
  • Inspect axle shaft boots
  • Inspect ball joints and dust covers
  • Inspect steering linkage and boots
  • Inspect rack-and-pinion assembly
  • Replace smart key battery 

Key services at major mileage intervals
  • 30,000 miles / 36 months: Replace brake fluid, replace engine air filter, and replace A/C filter. 
  • 60,000 miles / 72 months: Replace transmission fluid (on applicable models), replace spark plugs (required for Emission Control Warranty). 
  • 90,000 miles / 108 months: Replace timing belt (on applicable models). 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.