What kind of oil does a 2012 Lexus RX 350 take?
As a trusted auto service provider with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I often get asked about the specific oil requirements for various vehicles. One common question is about the type of oil a 2012 Lexus RX 350 requires. Choosing the right oil is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's performance and longevity. In this article, I'll break down the recommended oil type for this model and provide some helpful tips for oil changes.
Recommended Oil Type for the 2012 Lexus RX 350
The 2012 Lexus RX 350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, and the manufacturer recommends using synthetic oil for optimal performance. Specifically, the recommended oil type is:
- SAE 0W-20: This is the preferred oil viscosity grade for the 2012 Lexus RX 350. It provides excellent lubrication, especially in cold weather, and helps improve fuel efficiency.
- SAE 5W-20: If SAE 0W-20 is not available, SAE 5W-20 can be used temporarily. However, it is advisable to switch back to SAE 0W-20 during the next oil change.
Using the correct oil type ensures that your engine runs smoothly, reduces wear and tear, and maintains fuel efficiency. Always check your owner's manual for confirmation and additional details.
How Often Should You Change the Oil?
For the 2012 Lexus RX 350, Lexus recommends changing the oil every 10,000 miles or 12 months if you are using synthetic oil. However, if you frequently drive in severe conditions, such as stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, or dusty environments, you may need to change the oil more frequently, around every 5,000 miles or 6 months.
Steps for an Oil Change
If you're planning to change the oil yourself, here are the basic steps to follow:
- Gather the necessary tools and materials, including the correct oil type, an oil filter, a wrench, a funnel, and a drain pan.
- Warm up the engine for a few minutes to make the oil flow more easily.
- Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug and remove the plug to drain the old oil.
- Remove the old oil filter and replace it with a new one, ensuring it is properly tightened.
- Reinstall the drain plug securely.
- Use a funnel to pour the new oil into the engine, following the recommended capacity (approximately 6.4 quarts for the 2012 Lexus RX 350).
- Check the oil level using the dipstick and add more oil if necessary.
- Dispose of the old oil and filter responsibly by taking them to a recycling center or auto shop.
Performing regular oil changes is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your Lexus RX 350 running smoothly. If you're unsure about doing it yourself, visit a trusted auto service provider for professional assistance.
Final Thoughts
Using the correct oil type and maintaining a consistent oil change schedule are essential for the health of your 2012 Lexus RX 350. Always opt for high-quality synthetic oil, such as SAE 0W-20, and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for oil changes. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to your local auto service expert. At Kevin's Autos, we're here to help you keep your vehicle in top condition!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best oil to use in a Lexus?
Lexus recommends ILSAC GF-5 0W-20 full synthetic for engine oil refills, but the owners manual does not specify if this is also appropriate to replace the oil consumed by the engine during normal use.
Is Mobil 1 oil good for Lexus?
It is important to use the right oil in your car to comply with the Lexus manufacturer specifications. Using the right Mobil 1 product during routine servicing and according to your vehicle's handbook will not affect the Lexus manufacturer's warranty.
Do I really need to service my Lexus every 5000 miles?
Lexus recommends that you take your Lexus vehicle to a Lexus service center every 5000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) so that the company's certified technicians can look at it.
How many quarts of oil for Lexus RX 350?
6.4 quarts
How much oil does a 2022 Lexus RX 350 take? The 2022 Lexus RX 350 takes 6.4 quarts of oil.
What kind of oil does a 2012 Lexus RX350 take?
0W-20 (All TEMPS) - 0W-20 is the best choice for good fuel economy and starting in cold weather. If 0W-20 is not available 5W-20 may be used. However, it must be replaced with 0W-20 at the next oil change.
How often should I change the synthetic oil in my Lexus RX 350?
every 7,500 - 10,000 miles
How often does a Lexus RX 350 need an Oil Change? An oil change is one of the most paramount and important services for your car. Synthetic oil commonly should be changed every 7,500 - 10,000 miles. Lexus recommends getting your Lexus RX 350 oil & filter changed every 3,000-5,000 miles for conventional oil.
Which engine oil is best for a Lexus RX350?
Most new Lexus models require Toyota Genuine Motor Oil SAE 0W-20, which is a full synthetic motor oil. This is the one for the Lexus RX 350 oil type and the Lexus ES 350 oil type. Older models may require the conventional Toyota Genuine Motor Oil 5W-30.
What oil do I use for my Lexus?
Lexus vehicles in which 0w-20 synthetic oil is required have been approved for extended oil change intervals of 10,000 km/12-months. However, you should continue to check the car engine oil levels regularly and top up if needed.
Does changing your own oil void your warranty on Lexus?
If you're asking, “Can I change my own oil in my car without voiding the warranty?” the answer is yes. Changing your own oil won't directly void your car manufacturer's warranty. However, the manufacturer won't cover the repairs if you damage your car while trying to change your own oil.
Why is Lexus oil change so expensive?
The cost of an oil change for a Lexus can be higher than for many other vehicles due to several factors: Premium Parts and Fluids: Lexus vehicles often require high-quality synthetic oils and specific filters that can be more expensive than standard options. Using the manufacturer's recommended oil can increase costs.
