fig

Where exactly is the oil filter located? I cannot find it and want to do the oil change myself.

lexusk8

The oil filter in the '97 ES is located in front and underneath the exhaust manifold. You'd have to access the filter from under the hood, not from under the car. IMO, this is not a very good design on the part of the engineering dept of Lexus, as oil will spill out when unscrewing the filter. BTW, you will need to wear some long-sleeved clothing when removing the old filter, as the exhaust manifold is extremely hot and could burn your arm or hand. If necessary, get yourself a good swivel filter wrench to only remove the filter (I only use my hands to install a new filter).

If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to ask. BTW welcome to CL!

fig

thanks for your speedy reply, lexusk8. Went out and found it and changed it without problem. Thanks again!

flipside909

Actually it's a Toyota design fluke since 1994 from the first year of the 1MZ-FE.