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2016–2022 Lexus RX

2016-2022 Lexus RX 350 - Change Oil

By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Nov 6, 2026

🔧🔧 Moderate 45 minutes $40 DIY 2 views

Save $110 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $150

Quick answer: Change Oil on a 2016–2022 Lexus RX is rated Moderate and takes about 45 minutes. You'll need 9 tools for this job, and parts cost about $40. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

Total Cost
$40.00
Part Name Part Number Price Buy
Engine Oil (0W-20 Synthetic) — $30.00
Oil filter cartridge element kit (with O-rings) 04152-YZZA1 $10.00
New oil drain plug gasket — —

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

1

Prepare (cartridge filter!)

The 2016–2022 RX 350 (4th gen AL20, 3.5L 2GR-FKS V6) takes 0W-20, 5.7–5.8 quarts. CRITICAL: CARTRIDGE filter (not spin-on) — 04152-YZZA1 element kit and cap wrench. You'll need: 6 quarts, 14mm socket. Capacity: 5.8 qt WITH tow package, 5.7 qt WITHOUT — check yours.

2

Drain the Old Oil

Remove the underbody panel for drain plug access. Position the drain pan under the 14mm drain plug and remove it. The 5.7–5.8 qt sump takes a while — ensure your pan holds 6+ quarts. While it drains, locate the cartridge filter housing under the engine.

3

Replace Cartridge (don't crack the cap!)

Remove the plastic cartridge housing cap with the correct cap wrench — the plastic cap is known to CRACK, so don't overtighten. Remove the old cartridge (04152-YZZA1), install the new element with the O-ring properly seated, and reinstall the cap snugly.

🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado

That plastic housing cap is the RX 350's Achilles' heel — I've seen them split from one ham-fisted turn with the wrong wrench. Use the proper cap wrench, snug it, and stop. Or just buy the aluminum cap once and never think about it again.

4

Reinstall Drain Plug (30 N·m / 22 ft-lb)

Reinstall the drain plug with a NEW gasket and torque to 30 N·m (22 ft-lb). Use an OE drain plug. Don't over-tighten — 30 N·m (22 ft-lb) with a fresh gasket is the spec.

5

Add 5.7 or 5.8 Quarts (check tow pkg!)

Add 0W-20: 5.8 quarts with the tow package, 5.7 without. Check the dipstick — it should read at the full mark. Don't overfill — the 0.1 qt matters on the dipstick.

6

Check Level and Leaks

Start the engine and check for leaks (cartridge housing and drain plug), then recheck the level after 30 seconds — the cartridge absorbs oil. Top up if needed. Lexus interval: 10,000 miles / 12 months with synthetic.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Not allowing the engine to cool before starting the oil change
  • • Failing to replace the drain plug washer, leading to leaks
  • • Over-tightening the oil filter during installation