2004–2009 Lexus RX
By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 24, 2026 · Updated Oct 14, 2026
Save $127 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $174
Quick answer: Oil and Filter Change on a 2004–2009 Lexus RX is rated Easy and takes about 30–45 minutes. You'll need 5 tools for this job, and parts cost about $47. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil (5W-30, 5.0 qt per owner's manual) | — | $34.00 | |
| Spin-on oil filter (correct for 2004–2006 RX330 3.3L V6) | — | $11.00 | |
| Drain plug crush washer | — | $2.00 |
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
Idle the 3.3L V6 for a couple of minutes so the oil drains fast. Park on flat ground, set the parking brake, and raise the front on ramps or jack stands for working room.
Video at 0:00
Slide the drain pan under the oil pan and loosen the 14mm drain plug. Finish removing it by hand with upward pressure, then let all five quarts flow out until the stream turns to drips.
Clean the plug and the pan surface, install a new crush washer, and thread the plug in by hand. Snug it with the 14mm socket, taking care not to overtighten the soft aluminum threads.
I learned this one the hard way — I snug it with the 14mm taking care not to overtighten the soft aluminum threads.
The 3MZ-FE uses a conventional spin-on filter mounted on the front side of the engine. Move the drain pan beneath it, since oil will spill when the filter breaks loose.
Grip the filter with an oil filter wrench and turn counterclockwise. Spin it off by hand once loose, keeping it upright, and check that the old rubber gasket came off with it and is not stuck to the engine.
Smear fresh oil on the new filter's rubber gasket with your fingertip. Thread it onto the mount by hand until the gasket touches, then tighten about three-quarters of a turn more — no wrench needed.
Lower the RX to level ground and remove the oil filler cap. Pour in 5.0 quarts of 5W-30 through a funnel, then check the dipstick and top up slightly if needed without exceeding the full mark.
Start the engine and look underneath for drips at the plug and filter for about a minute. Turn it off, recheck the level after two minutes, and reset the maintenance-required reminder on the dash.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
2004–2009
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