The oil is the lifeblood of every internal combustion engine. Choosing the correct one for your model vehicle will be critical for the engine's performance and lifespan. If you drive a Lexus and are wondering what oil you should use, we can help you. We researched this popular vehicle from multiple professional sources, so you'll know what type of oil to pour into its crankcase.
The Lexus is recommended to use Toyota Genuine Motor Oil. The weight you use will depend on the model Lexus you are driving.
Now that we know what brand of motor oil a Lexus should take, we'll look at what several popular model Lexus vehicles need when it comes to the recommended weight. You might also wonder how often a Lexus should get its oil changed or how many miles a Lexus will last. For the answers to these questions and more, read ahead in this post to see what our research has uncovered.
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The specific type of oil for a Lexus, by model
We know that Lexus recommends that you use Toyota Genuine Motor oil for their vehicles. But the specific type you will put into the engine will vary a bit by model.
If you are driving a Lexus Rx350, you should use 0W-20. This oil is lower in viscosity and will work best with the engine it is equipped with. Either traditional motor oil or synthetic will be acceptable.
The Lexus ES350 should also use 0W-20. Synthetic or traditional motor oil works with this model as well.
But if your Lexus is an IS350, then you should use 5W-30. As with the other models, you can use traditional or synthetic motor oil.
If you are unsure what oil to use in any vehicle, never be afraid to ask a professional. A trusted mechanic or dealership will be able to give you the most accurate answers, even those you cannot find in your owner's manual.
How often should you change the oil in a Lexus?
You are probably aware that the oil that is originally in your Lexus when you get it won't last. Routinely changing the oil and filter is one of the critical pieces of vehicle maintenance. But when it should be done on a Lexus can vary some.
If you are using traditional motor oil, you must have the oil, and the oil filter changed every 3,000 miles. By the end of this cycle, the oil will have increased its viscosity enough that it won't be able to lubricate all of the engine's moving parts properly. Changing the oil will help these moving parts keep cool, making them last much longer.
But if you use synthetic oil, you won't need to change it near as often. This type of oil only needs to be changed every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. Though it does cost more per court, the savings of not having to change the oil and filter often will work out ahead in your favor. It is also cleaner and better for the environment.
How long will a Lexus last?
The number of miles you can put on a Lexus will depend on the model you are driving. It will also depend on how well the vehicle is being taken care of. No matter the model, however, you can expect a well-maintained Lexus to last at least 200,000 miles.
If you drive an average of 15,000 miles each year, a typical Lexus should make it well beyond 13 years before it needs to be replaced.
If you are considering a used model, be sure to get proof that it has had all of the necessary maintenance performed on it. You should also consider ordering a vehicle history on it. This will tell you if it has been involved in an accident or has had any collision damage.
What can I do to make my Lexus last longer?
Many consumers want the most car for their dollar. Not everyone has it in their budget to replace their primary vehicle every four or five years.
But even vehicles with reputations lasting a decade or more will need your help along the way. We recommend following these guidelines to get the most out of your Lexus.
Following the factory recommended maintenance key to any vehicle's longevity.
In your owner's manual, you will find a thorough checklist that includes all maintenance items that need to be administered. It will also list at what intervals (time and mileage) these items need to be taken care of.
This will include much more than routine oil changes. Tire rotations, filter replacements, and belt inspections are just a few things you'll need to get done throughout the life of your Lexus. But if you follow the maintenance checklist, you will be doing the single most important thing when it comes to getting the most life out of your Lexus.
If you've misplaced your owner's manual, you can access it online. Your local dealership will also have a maintenance schedule that they can provide you, free of charge.
Getting repairs and adjustments as soon as problems present themselves is also critical
Many times, your vehicle's flaws will not show its hand during a routine inspection. Sometimes, you'll be alerted to potential issues while driving. It's important to be mindful of how the car drives and pay attention to anything out of the ordinary.
If your Lexus has a new vibration, an odor you've not encountered before, or is making a sound that it shouldn't be, there could be a serious problem brewing. Report these abnormalities to a trusted local mechanic or your dealership as soon as possible.
Minor problems that you notice might very well lead to bigger, more expensive ones if they are ignored. Rely on your senses at all times when you drive and get any sign of mechanical issues resolved quickly.
Keeping your Lexus clean makes it drive better and last longer
You might not have considered this before, but a clean vehicle is a happy vehicle. Keeping the inside and outside of your Lexus will not only make it look better but can also impact its dependability and longevity.
A thorough washing will go a long way in keeping caustic chemicals from damaging your Lexus. This is especially true in areas with a lot of snow and ice in winter. Road salt is enemy number one to the body of your car. Routinely washing your vehicle will rid it of contaminants that make it rust.
On the interior, dust particles really can make your air filters work overtime. If you keep the inside of your Lexus clean, your cabin air filter will perform better and last much longer. You should also avoid smoking or vaping inside any vehicle. This will not only make it smell but will also damage your filters and onboard electronics.
Final thoughts
Using the correct oil for your Lexus will make the engine last longer, improve fuel economy, and keep it performing its best. In addition, you should follow the factory recommendation on how often you should change out the old oil and oil filter. Following key pieces of vehicle maintenance will keep your Lexus driving well and on the roadways for years to come. Drive safe!
We hope this post on the Lexus answered all of your questions. For additional helpful information, we suggest reading the following posts:
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