Quick answer: Engine Oil & Filter Change on a 2016–2022 Lexus RX is rated Moderate and takes about 30-60 minutes. You'll need 3 tools for this job, and parts cost about $57. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
Oil spec
3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)
Capacity 5.7 qt with filter Viscosity 0W-20 (alt: 5W-20) Spec API/ILSAC
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Engine Oil (0W-20) |
— |
$45.00 |
|
| Correct engine oil filter and drain-plug washer for 2016-2022 Lexus RX 350 |
— |
$12.00 |
|
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
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Confirm the 2GR-FKS specs and set up safely
Park the 2016-2022 RX on level ground, set the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Gather a cartridge filter (Toyota 04152-YZZA1 type), a 64mm 14-flute filter wrench, a new drain-plug washer, a drain pan, and a funnel. The van sits high enough to slide under without raising it — but if you lift it, use jack stands.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
In my experience, If you have the tow package, that extra tenth of a quart matters. Check your build sticker or the owner's manual before you pour — running a quart short is worse than any tool choice on this job.
2
Warm briefly and access the drain plug
Run the RX just long enough to warm the oil so it flows, then switch it off and remove the oil fill cap to vent the crankcase. Under the front, open the small access door in the engine under cover to reach the drain plug — you do not need to remove the whole cover. Position a drain pan with at least 6-quart capacity under the plug. Keep the fill cap and dipstick clean and set aside.
3
Drain the oil with a new washer
Loosen the drain plug and remove it by hand, letting the oil drain fully — the 2GR-FKS sump takes several minutes to empty. Inspect the plug threads and always fit a NEW crush washer; Lexus specifies a new washer on the drain bolt every change and an OE drain plug only. Reinstall the plug at 30 ft-lbs. Wipe the pan area clean so leaks are easy to spot later.
4
Replace the top-mounted cartridge filter
From above, locate the black plastic cartridge housing on top of the engine. Loosen the cap with the 64mm 14-flute wrench and lift it out — the old cartridge comes out with the cap. Pull the old element off, discard the old O-ring, and fit the new O-ring from the filter kit into the cap groove with a film of fresh oil. Press the new cartridge into the cap until it seats, then thread the cap back on and snug it — do NOT overtighten, as the plastic housing cracks easily.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
The plastic housing is the weak link on this job. Snug is snug — I've seen cracked housings from people torquing them like a drain plug, and they don't reseal once cracked.
5
Refill and verify the level
Start the engine for a minute, switch it off, wait two minutes on level ground, then check the dipstick — top up in small amounts to the full mark, never above.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Using the wrong viscosity, capacity, or filter
- • Working under a vehicle supported only by a jack
- • Reusing a crushed drain-plug washer or leaving the old filter gasket stuck
- • Over-tightening the filter or drain plug
- • Starting the engine without first verifying oil was added
