Which engine oil is best for a Lexus RX350?
Choosing the right engine oil for your Lexus RX350 is crucial for maintaining its performance, longevity, and fuel efficiency. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ve seen how the right oil can make a significant difference in engine health. In this article, I’ll guide you through the best options for engine oil for your Lexus RX350 and why it matters.
Why Choosing the Right Engine Oil Matters
The engine oil you use plays a vital role in lubricating the engine's moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing wear and tear. It also helps in cooling the engine, cleaning deposits, and protecting against rust and corrosion. Using the wrong oil can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even long-term damage.
Recommended Engine Oil for Lexus RX350
The Lexus RX350 typically requires synthetic oil for optimal performance. Here are the key specifications to keep in mind:
- Viscosity Grade: The recommended viscosity grade for most Lexus RX350 models is SAE 0W-20. This oil provides excellent performance in both cold and hot temperatures, ensuring smooth engine operation.
- Oil Type: Full synthetic oil is highly recommended. Synthetic oils offer superior lubrication, better thermal stability, and longer-lasting performance compared to conventional oils.
- API Certification: Look for oils that meet the API SN or SP standards, as these are designed to provide enhanced protection and performance for modern engines.
Using the recommended oil ensures that your Lexus RX350 runs efficiently and minimizes the risk of engine damage. Always check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations based on your vehicle's model year.
Top Brands to Consider
When selecting engine oil, choosing a reputable brand is just as important as meeting the specifications. Here are some trusted brands that offer high-quality synthetic oils suitable for the Lexus RX350:
- Mobil 1: Known for its advanced synthetic formulas, Mobil 1 0W-20 is a popular choice for Lexus vehicles.
- Castrol EDGE: Castrol EDGE 0W-20 is another excellent option, offering superior wear protection and engine performance.
- Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic: This oil provides excellent engine cleanliness and protection against high temperatures.
- Royal Purple: A premium option, Royal Purple 0W-20 offers enhanced performance and protection for high-mileage engines.
These brands are widely available and trusted by professionals for their consistent quality and performance.
How to Change Your Engine Oil
If you’re planning to change the oil yourself, follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
- Gather the necessary tools and materials, including the correct oil, an oil filter, a wrench, a drain pan, and gloves.
- Warm up the engine for a few minutes to make the oil less viscous, then turn it off.
- Locate the oil drain plug under the vehicle and place the drain pan beneath it.
- Remove the drain plug and let the old oil drain completely.
- Replace the oil filter with a new one, ensuring it’s properly tightened.
- Reinstall the drain plug securely.
- Pour the new oil into the engine using a funnel, checking the dipstick to ensure the correct level.
- Start the engine and let it run for a minute, then check for leaks and recheck the oil level.
Changing your oil regularly, as recommended in your owner’s manual, is one of the simplest ways to keep your Lexus RX350 running smoothly.
Conclusion
Using the right engine oil for your Lexus RX350 is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations, opt for high-quality synthetic oils, and ensure regular oil changes to keep your vehicle in top condition. If you’re unsure or need assistance, don’t hesitate to visit a trusted auto service like Kevin’s Autos for professional advice and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What brand is the best synthetic motor oil?
List of the Best Synthetic Motor Oils
- Mobil 1 Extended Performance Synthetic Motor Oil. This is our top pick for numerous reasons.
- Royal Purple High-Performance Synthetic Motor Oil.
- Shell ROTELLA Full Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil.
- Pennzoil Ultra Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil.
- Valvoline MaxLife High Mileage Motor Oil.
How often does a Lexus RX 350 need an oil change?
every 5,000 to 10,000 miles
Recommended Oil Change Frequency
How often should you change your oil? This does vary, but the rule of thumb is to have your oil changed every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
What is the best oil for a Lexus RX 350?
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.
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.
Can I take my Lexus anywhere for an oil change?
Lexus recommends that routine maintenance and vehicle services be completed at an authorized Lexus dealership as Lexus does not warrant the work completed at third party facilities.
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.
How much is an oil change for a Lexus RX350?
between $138 and $149
The average cost for a Lexus RX350 Oil Change is between $138 and $149. Labor costs are estimated between $40 and $51 while parts are typically priced around $98. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
What is the best synthetic oil for Lexus RX 350?
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.
How long does 0w-20 synthetic oil last?
However, you should continue to check the oil level regularly and top off if needed. Engines that recommend 5w-20 conventional oil, but allow the optional use of 0w-20 synthetic oil, as per the Owner's Manual, will continue to require 5,000-mile/6-month (whichever comes first) oil change intervals if the 0w-20 is used.
What brand of oil does Lexus recommend?
Toyota Genuine Motor Oil
Because the Lexus brand is owned by Toyota, most new Lexus models require Toyota Genuine Motor Oil SAE 0W-20. This is a type of synthetic motor oil. If you drive an older Lexus model, your vehicle may need Toyota Genuine Motor Oil 5W-30. This is a conventional motor oil.
