ntwrkguy1

The import shop I use in Raleigh has finally priced me out of using them for oil changes on my '03 GS430. They have maintained my other car (Acura CL-S) for several years, and my Lexus for the last year. They are now at $65 + shop fees, etc for an oil change.

Two questions: How difficult is it to change the oil on the 430? My wife's Suburban is easy -- you can reach everything by just laying on your back. Are there any gotchas to be aware of? The Acura has an aluminum oil pan that you have to be really careful not to overtorque when reinstalling the drain plug.

The second question is does anyone trust their oil changes to a non-dealer/non-specialty shop? There is a local chain (Colony Tire) here that has a good reputation, better than that of a place like Jiffy Lube, who I would simply not trust due to horror stories from friends.

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

Oil change is just like any other car. Nothing surprising. The only thing you'll need to do is remove the plastic undercover to access the oil filter and drain plug.

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

http://www.lexls.com/tutorials/lubri...oilchange.html

Oil change for an LS400, but it's the same thing on the GS.

ntwrkguy1

Thanks for the link, GSteg!

Maybe I should just stop being lazy and do it myself. I've got the ramps and the wrenches, and removing the undercover looks easy enough.

Is it worth the money to get the Toyota filter? Or can I get by with Purolator filters?

1sWt2GS

iTrader: (6)

last time i checked i didnt need to do any removing of the "undercover" to change the oil in my gs300.

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

Oil filter placement is different on the V8. The oil filter is located closer to the front of the car than the GS300. You don't have to remove the cover completely, just a few screws is good enough, but you may make a mess. It's best/easier just to remove it all the way.

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

I've used both and my engine can't tell a difference. I normally get whichever one is cheaper. When the Toyota filters are on sale for $2.00-2.50, I'll pick some up. If not, then Purolator. I now use Nippon-Denso filters since I bought 40+ filters at a good price.

ntwrkguy1

Wow.....$2 - 2.50 for Toyota filters? That's cheaper than I thought they would be. I'm happy when I can get the PureOne's from Purolater for under $7!

Does the Lexus have a crush washer (I think that's what Acura calls it) that should be replaced on the drain plug like my CL-S does?

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

That's the price I pay for my filters at the Toyota dealership. I've seen many go for $5, more if you buy at Lexus.

Yes Toyota does have crush gaskets.

aka paco

iTrader: (15)

I enjoy/hate doing my oil changes, as much as i dislike it, it gives me a better piece of mind and i've had bad expirences with shops, so for the last 10 years i've just done all mine myself..

Normally I use Mobil 1 or K&N filters on my toys (Turbo Supra, Turbo SC)

on my GS's, Accords, Camry's i've always just used puralator, oem or just a descent good filter..