LexFinally

The good news is, you have a car with an exceptionally reliable and durable engine. Its dual fuel delivery system of both direct and port injection periodically runs a cleaning program all by itself to minimize carbon buildup, so Seafoam should be simply unnecessary in normal use compared to many direct injection-only cars.

Our ES's don't deliver the performance of many competitors, and in some cases they don't deliver as much luxury either. But one thing they do provide in spades is that famous Lexus reliability and durability. Do your 5,000 mile oil and filter changes, keep up on your other maintenance, relax and enjoy the knowledge that you wisely chose a basically problem-free car.

Wilson2000

This is great news! I'm new to direct injection (this is my first vehicle employing it). Where did you discover this information regarding Toyota's approach?

Even knowing this now, I will likely still run a detergent fuel additive on occasion as I have with all my vehicles. They clean the entire fuel system as well as helping to keep the injectors and valves clean.

LexFinally

Widely reported. Detergent fuel additives could help and can't hurt; Chevron Techron is well recommended, I've read.

Even better is daily use of gasoline that has a high level of detergent additives already in it. Toyota/Lexus is a founding member of Top Tier, which has set a standard for detergent additives in gasoline. Go to TopTierGas dotcom for a list of the brands that qualify.

Freds430

Has worked for me with Lexus vehicles for over a million miles. Every 10,000 I take my Mobil 1 and Toyota oil filter to my Lexus dealership and change the oil and tire rotation cost labor $65. Every 30,000 miles brake flush. $120. Once a year I a left handed mechanic change the cabin and engine air filter. Five minutes and $40. I never go in and ask for a mile service ex. 10,000 miles.100,000 miles of driving maintenance cost way under $1,500.
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Wilson2000

There appears to be mounting evidence that 10K-mile oil change intervals are resulting in gummed-up rings--leading to oil burning down the road. I'm sticking with 5K oil changes. Too, "once a year" is overkill on the engine air filter. You must not be buying OEM if you get both the cabin and engine filters for $40!

Shaboom

Has any incipient, festering problem ever been left undetected and untreated by not following all those “Check ____ for _____” instructions?
I agree with your approach and I’m following your plan almost to a “T.” I hope I’m not making a mistake by passing on the opportunity to detect the need and opportunity for preemptive attention to some mechanical “gathering storm” that will eventually cost me a lot of money because it went unnoticed and untreated early on.

E46CT

You're absolutely correct. These cars are best served by oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Car care nut is correct. 10k is extremely extremely inadequate. Scoring cylinder walls and such. Even more evident with the LS500, Tundra, new GX crowd now with the massive engine failures, those guys are now waking up to 5k oil changes being important after learning what debris can do in the engine.

Shaboom

Has any incipient, festering problem ever been left undetected and untreated by not following all those “Check ____ for _____” instructions?
I agree with your approach and I’m following your plan almost to a “T.” I hope I’m not making a mistake by passing on the opportunity to detect the need and opportunity for preemptive attention to some mechanical “gathering storm” that will eventually cost me a lot of money because it went unnoticed and untreated early on.

Freds430

Never had one problem that is why I buy Lexus. Would never do this method with any other manufacturer.

SunilP

Thanks for the discussion and advice. I’m going to stick with the ~5000 mile oil changes.

RocketMan295

Freds430 is the most practical advice I have read. Can’t believe “the wrong filter” fell off the engine! Yet another reason I DIY everything! But if you’re unable to DIY, Freds430 suggestion is spot on!