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.
| 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