R3Wood

Hello.

About the only thing I miss about my German cars was the "Top-Loading" oil filter, with easy access right in the top of the engine. You change it from a standing position

I was reading about the GX470 oil change, and it sounds like, you need to plan the day. Has anyone taken pictures of the removal of the skid plate to access the oil filter? I am new to Lexus, and like to perform what maintenance I can, including oil changes.

Also, is the RX330 just as bad as the GX470 oil changes sound?

Regards,

Rich G.
Somers Point, NJ
2005 RX330
2003 GX470

tgergen

I did mine for the first time a few months ago (have been taking to the dealer as I was too buzy, and lazy when I wasn't busy), and am ready to do it again as it is time. I recall it being fairly easy and straight forward with nothing really tricky about it. I have owned several Toyota trucks and it was basically the same...remove skid plate and reach up and remove filter. A filter wrench is a good idea to loosen it a bit, but I recall it being fairly easy.

I don't have, or know of, instructions....maybe somebody else will post something...but it is "easy" and straight forward. No surprises from what I recall. Good luck!

R3Wood

Thanks. I was under there today checking out which bolts to remove. It looks more of a giant pain, but does not look hard.

V8_Fan

The toyota 4 liter V6 (1GR-FE) in the 4runner and tacoma has the filter right up there in the front top right. You don't even have to bend over. Anyways, the 2UZ isn't hard. Definitely use a filter wrench. Dealers (and the factory) have a tendency to put the filter on really tight. Also use a 6 pt socket instead of a 12 pt on the drain bolt...less wear on the bolt corners, less chance of stripping the corners over time.

R3Wood

Thanks Jim. I knew Mercedes engines very well, but I am starting from scratch since only owning one Toyota 4-Runner back in 1986 (it rusted out). My 1981 380SEL and my 1986 560SL were not so bad, but the ML's might be the worst vehicle Mercedes has ever produced. I won't miss changing the 12 sparkplugs in the V-6 or the 9 qts. of Mobil 1 every oil change, or breaking down just because the belt guide went bad, or changing out $300 sensors because the "Check Engine" light is on, or cleaning the front rims every other day , the list is never ending................ These are my first Lexus vehicles and so far, so good.

Regards,
Rich
2005 RX330
2003 GX470

R3Wood

The oil change was not so bad. The only trouble I had was someone had snapped off one of the front bolts, and it would not back out using the "easy-out." Even PB-Blaster could not loosen it. I had to drill, retap, and put in a new bolt. While I was under there, I retapped the other (3) of the larger holes and put in stainless steel #8's.

Can anyone tell me if the oil drain trap door has a cover, or is it always exposed with no cover? Just an open oval hole?

Thanks,
Rich
2005 RX330
2003 GX470

CdeFabio

Nope, there is supposed to be a plastic cover. The dealer "lost" mine on the last oil change and I did not notice till about 2 months later so I had to buy a new one, cost about $30 - very expensive! So now I always look to make sure it is there.

R3Wood

Thanks. I called the local dealer and told them they were selling online for $20. He said, fine, it will be here tomorrow.

Happy Holidays.

CdeFabio

Who online has them for $20? Or was that just a bluff for a better price. My dealer does not budge when it comes to pricing.

R3Wood

Cd:

It was a bluff sorry. I just told them that to see if they would match it.

Rich

R3Wood

P.S. I also had to order a few more plastic engine rivets and the plastic bolts that hold the covers onto the firewall. I seem to lose at least one everytime I remove it...........