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Lexus ES RX: How to Change Your Oil

Changing the oil in your Lexus ES and RX is a simple project for the DIY mechanic. Keep reading to learn how to get it done correctly.

By Brett Foote - January 23, 2015

This article applies to the Lexus ES, RX (2005-2014).

Changing the oil is the first thing prospective gearheads learn how to do, so in a way it is a rite of passage. It's an easy job that is both rewarding and quick. Plus, changing the oil yourself can save you money rather than paying the dealership or a questionable side business. It's important to make sure you change your oil the right way. Check out this step-by-step guide below and learn how to change the oil of your Lexus ES or RX.

Materials Needed

  • Floor Jack
  • Jack stands or ramps
  • Oil catcher or pan
  • 14mm wrench
  • Eye protection
  • Gloves (optional)
  • Paper towels or rags
  • Wheel chocks or blocks of wood
  • Oil filter wrench
  • 7 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil
  • Oil filter (part #04152-YZZA1)
  • 3/8" socket drive wrench
  • Funnel

Step 1 – Jack the car up or drive onto ramps

If you are using a floor jack, jack the car up as high as possible and place jack stands underneath the frame to support it. If you are using floor ramps, simply drive up onto the flat portion of the ramps. Set the emergency brake and place a wheel chock or block of wood behind each of the rear tires.

Figure 1. Use jack stands or ramps to safely hold the car in the air while you change the oil.

(Related Article: How to Jack Up Your Car - Clublexus.com).

Step 2 – Drain the oil filter

Using a 3/8" socket drive wrench, remove the drain bolt from the bottom of the oil filter. Then, plug the oil drain tube into the bottom of the oil filter. Oil will start pouring out immediately, so make sure the tube is already aimed at the used oil tray.

When the oil stops, remove the drain tube. Use a 65mm oil filter wrench to remove the filter housing. Before installing the new filter, check for debris and other signs of trouble. Press the new filter in place and make sure to replace both o-rings. Replace the filter drain plug and screw it back in.

  • Figure 2a. Oil filter drain plug.
  • Figure 2b. Insert oil filter drain into oil filter.
  • Figure 2c. Lexus oil filter housing.

Step 3 – Drain the oil pan

Pop the hood and loosen your oil fill cap. Next, crawl under the car and look for the drain plug, which is located on the bottom of the oil pan. Place the drain pan underneath the plug and use a 14mm wrench to slowly loosen the plug. If you're worried about getting messy, make sure you are wearing eye protection and some disposable gloves. Let the oil drain completely.

Figure 3. Allow old oil to drain completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 4 – Replace oil filter and oil

Use your oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Replace the oil drain plug and tighten using your wrench. Install the new oil filter the same way you removed the old one. The Lexus RX and ES 350 both use 0W-20 synthetic oil. Place a funnel in the oil fill valve on top of the engine and fill with oil per manufacturer specifications. Replace oil fill cap and tighten.

Figure 4. Fill oil based on the manufacturer specifications for your specific make and model.

Step 5 – Check for leaks

Visibly inspect underneath the car to make sure there are no leaks. Start your engine and let it run until it comes up to temperature. Again, check for any leaks and verify that the oil pressure is in range. Close the hood and drive off the ramps or use your floor jack to lift it off the jack stands. Use paper towels or rags to clean up any mess. Make sure to dispose of used oil and oily rags at a recycling center or authorized drop off.

Figure 5. Make sure to check for leaks when you are done, and properly dispose of any used oil or oily rags.

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