Daddy-O

I had already purchased some 5qt. jugs of Mobil1 and some
Toyota oil filters (Japan production 90915-YZZB9).

At 8:00am, I drove to my local Toyota dealer and asked
about their express lube prices. I mentioned that I had
the filter (Bought it there) and the oil.

They weren't busy. Total time at the dealer...30 minutes.

He charged me $8.30 for labor.

OK, OK...So the actual cost was $8.30 for labor, $17.88 for oil, $6 for filter, so $34/incl. tax for a synthetic oil change, a stamp in my book and a cup of coffee while waiting.

BTW, that service department has a killer brochure regarding prices, specials and coupons good for all kinds of scheduled Toyota service. I asked about my RX and he said that other than the possibility of specific Lexus parts he was unaware of, that my pricing would be the same as a Toyota Highlander.

The best part of their pricing is that they offer "Mini" or "Maxi" pricing on scheduled interval service. Apparently they understand the difference between normal driving and the "special operating conditions" rough service pricing that my Lexus service department defaults to. Killer prices and these folks are very friendly...I'll take this type of service experience every time.

LexRX

I'm due for my 20k service. That basically means I want an oil change and tire rotation. I think it's time for a new filter too.

I've been debating whether or not to go to the Lexus dealer or not. It's expensive for nothing. I have to wait twice as long to get things done! I'm 20, so I can't get a loaner, but they'll drive me where I want

I just like the feeling of having the service done at the Lexus dealer, but maybe it's just some sort of placebo and the Toyota place would do just as fine. Kinda thinking out loud here.

Daddy-O

Nick,

Sounds like

Replace engine oil & filter
Remove & inspect air filter element
tire rotation
Inspect ball joints and dust covers, driveshaft and steering rack boots, chassis nuts & bolts for looseness or damage
Road test

$39.95 at my Toyota dealer

Bring your own oil and filter, $21.00 x2

This service is some pretty simple stuff.

I've moved to this schedule:
Normal service @ 7,500 mile service intervals,
but I also change the oil in between at 3,750 miles.
That's what I did today. Just the oil change

In 15k, I pay for:
2 oil changes, plus 2 scheduled services @ 7.5K service intervals.
vs rough service:
3 scheduled services, which includes 3 oil changes @ 5K service intervals.
or Normal service:
2 scheduled services, which includes 2 oil changes @ 7.5K service intervals.

So, I spend a little more annually on oil changes, as I do not wish to go 7.5K between changes...BFD.

I'll see Lexus every 15K, otherwise it's local Toyota service.

edit-sp.

salimshah

I bring previously purcashed sythetic oil to Lexus dealership.

Salim

parula

I just go to the local Mobil or similar responsible oil change guys for <$30 every 2500-3000 miles. Some of them even let you drive in so you don't get their greasey stuff all over your leather.

I plan to keep this engine clean.

Also running an 86' Honda Civic, stock, 157k, no smoke passes inspection every year, I believe partly due to frequent oil changes and of course Honda quality. IMO, beware planned obsolescence by design or maintenance recommendations.

bob