smithg

My 2008 LS 460 has a black exhaust pipe that has spread to the bumper. Also, The oil level has decreased to just above the bottom line notch after only 3000 mimes. Of course the service center says this is normal and within specs. I was always told that if an engine is burning clean, then the exhaust pipe should look clean and somewhat grayish, not black. My extended warranty expires April 2013, And I'm afraid this could be the beginning of something really bad. The car has 87,000 miles on it.

Anyone out there with similar observations?

Craig B

That doesn't sound good, mine isn't using any oil since the repair. My tips are black, but not spreading to my bumper. I clean them off when I wash my car. You might want to give Lexus a call, not the dealer...

smithg

Just picked up my car. They said that everything is within specs. Recommendations are: (1) use Brillo to clean the bumper (they were unable to), (2) do not remove dip stick until I return and let them check it in 1200 miles. They topped off the oil to see if oil consumption occurs.

I say that it should burn NO oil.

Valley101

You are right! If the car is properly maintained and driven in a reasonable manner it should not use oil. However, as far back as I can remember, which is mid 70's Toyota has always stated in the owner's manual that normal oil use can be up to a quart every 600 miles. That I believe is in there to protect themselves from people who drive their cars very hard. I have owned numerous Toyota's and Lexus vehicles since the 70's and never has one of them used any oil during scheduled oil changes.

Lextrician

600 a quart! @ 9 quarts capacity ?????? 600*9= @6725 and you would have no oil that's wayy too much. a quart for 3000 miles okay but not 600 because @ 3000 mile oil change you would be below half the oil level.... not good.