patarabani

Bought a 2005 RX 330 with 58k miles in July from a Toyota dealer, but we can't find any maintenance records on Carfax. We now have 63k miles and it is time for maintenance. Looking at the Lexus owner's manual, it doesn't appear obligatory to change transmission fluid or differential fluid unless driving in a desert or towing, neither of which we do.
Should we bite the bullet, go to a Lexus dealer and pay $800 for a complete 60k mile service including transmission fluid/filter, rear differential fluid, new coolant, and brake fluid as suggested by local Lexus dealer so that we have a new starting point for subsequent maintenance intervals?
Are all these really obligatory at this point?

Many thanks for your help with a reality check since this our first Lexus.

jfelbab

My 60k service, at my Lexus dealer, was $365. Did you actually get an $800 quote or are you just assuming it will cost that?

RX330inFL

Register the car online with Lexus at: https://secure.drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrivers/home

Any service done on your vehicle at a Lexus shop will be listed once you create an account and register the VIN.

billy44bo

Take it to a Toyota dealer for service. I had the transmission fluid drained at 30k and at 60k, (4 qt drain and fill). First time it was the cost of the fluid and 6 dollars in labor and the second time it was 68 dollars for the same thing, also had the brake fluid changed every two years < $100. I have a FWD so not of the rear end fluid things. For the most part, I go by what is in the book. All the extras are only for the sealership to make money for his shop and his pocket. In the end you will save big, yes, you will not get the loner car but you are paying for that anyway.

mandyfig

The 60K service is not that expensive. It is coming up for me. The biggest thing is the trans drain and fill. However my tranny fluid is a pink and smells good. Had a drain and fill @ 30K.

patarabani

Many thanks for all your comments.
The actual quote from the Lexus dealer for 60k checkup was $799.95, so I exaggerated by 5 cents when I quoted $800. Quite amazing!
Thanks so much for your helpful and practical tips.
My only frame of reference is that we have driven Toyotas for >30 years.
Change the oil regularly and drive them until they rust out after 10-15 years here in New England.
Toyota dealer here we come!

wr332

they quote me a $500 job for 45k

mandyfig

Steep. 45K is nothing, just an oil change + some minor stuff.

starrock

do as previously-mentioned and register it online or, call the Lexus 800-number to register it. then, they can inform you if yours is affected by the BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RECALL. pretty important.

sr

DTrapani

If you're handy, most of the checks can be done at home. If the fluid looks and smells ok, it usually is...

Dominic Trapani