What type of gas does a Lexus RX300 use?
The Lexus RX300 runs on unleaded gasoline and typically requires regular-grade fuel with a minimum octane rating of 87. Premium fuel is optional and not required by the engine. Diesel, methanol, or leaded fuels should never be used.
Fuel requirements by generation
Below are the core fuel guidelines for the RX300 across its production periods, noting that regional variations can apply and that owners should always consult the specific year’s manual.
First generation RX300 (1998-2003)
For the original RX300, the vehicle’s 3.0-liter V6 is designed to run on standard unleaded gasoline. The typical guidance is a minimum 87 octane (AKI) fuel, with higher-octane fuels being optional depending on driver preference or engine knock observations. In most markets, ethanol blends up to E10 are tolerated, but always confirm with the owner’s manual or dealer.
Fuel guidance for this generation:
- Fuel type: Unleaded gasoline only (no diesel, leaded fuel, or alternative fuels).
- Octane rating: Minimum 87 (AKI), higher octane is acceptable but not required.
- Ethanol content: In many regions, E10 (gasoline with up to 10% ethanol) is supported; check your manual for regional specifics.
- Notes: Use fresh fuel, ensure the fuel cap is secured, and avoid contaminated or unknown additives.
In summary for the first generation, stick to unleaded gasoline with at least 87 octane and follow regional guidelines on ethanol content.
RX330 era (2004-2009)
When the RX300 evolved into the RX330 naming (covering roughly 2004-2009), the fuel requirements remained broadly the same: unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. Ethanol blends up to E10 are generally compatible in many markets, but owners should verify year-specific guidance in the manual or with a Toyota/Lexus dealer.
Fuel guidance for this generation:
- Fuel type: Unleaded gasoline only
- Octane rating: 87 AKI minimum (higher octane is optional)
- Ethanol content: Typically supports E10 where available; regional specifics should be consulted
- Notes: Avoid diesel, kerosene, or any non-specified fuels; keep the fuel system clean and well-maintained
For the RX330 era, the same fundamental rules apply: use regular unleaded gasoline at 87 octane or higher, and check regional ethanol guidelines.
Practical fueling tips
To help ensure reliable performance and avoid common fueling pitfalls, consider these practical tips tailored to the RX300’s fuel system.
- Always follow the fuel type and octane recommendations in your owner's manual; in most markets, regular 87-octane gasoline is sufficient.
- Be aware of ethanol content in your region; use fuel that aligns with local guidelines (commonly E10 where available).
- Avoid diesel, leaded gasoline, or fuel additives not approved by Toyota/Lexus; contaminated fuel can damage the engine and fuel system.
- Secure the fuel cap properly after refueling to maintain vapor recovery and fuel system integrity.
Respecting these fueling practices helps maintain efficiency, performance, and long-term reliability of the RX300’s V6 engine.
Summary
The Lexus RX300 is designed to run on unleaded gasoline, with a recommended minimum octane of 87 in most markets. Regular unleaded fuel is typically adequate, while higher-octane fuels are optional. Do not use diesel or other non-specified fuels, and always verify any regional variations—such as ethanol content—in the specific model year’s owner’s manual or with a Lexus dealer.
