kmar

As a new Lexus RX 350 owner I wonder if some dealers would be a bit less cooperative if it came to handling a warranty issue because I had servicing done by the Toyota dealer? My local Lexus and Toyota dealerships are owned by the same company and just a couple of blocks away from each other.

Tom558

I hope to not have a warranty issue but if I do I guess I'll find out. :-)

I can't imagine that there would be an issue as many owners perform their own service and many others don't have a local Lexus dealer. Also, Lexus is at least peripherally aware of all this as they allow owners to update the service log online. The only issue I can imagine would be if the warranty issue could possibly be attributed the prescribed service not being performed and the owner did not have documentation showing the service had been done.

goodrx350

Any feedback including cost differential, etc.?

Tom558

Sorry, I posted the update to this in another thread, forgot I had this post.

The Toyota dealer quoted $30 for the basic service. I had them also change the engine air filter for $30 plus $15 labor for a total service cost of $75. We waited about an hour for the service to be completed and the customer area was nice with couches, pastries and coffee. Our appointment was at 2:00 pm and the pastries were from that morning but the coffee was brewed, fresh and tasted OK.

I updated the service log online listing both the 15K service and the engine air filter change.

We were a little late getting this done and will be doing subsequent services at less then 5000 miles to try to get back to an even 5K interval.

kitlz

Tom, thanks for giving us an update. I'm glad the Toyota dealership worked out for you. It's easier to follow the 6 month interval instead of trying to get the mileage back on track. Unless you exceed 5,000 miles in that time. I drive closer to 5,000 miles/year but still bring the 450h in twice a year. And when I remember, set the second trip odometer to record the miles. Just a suggestion.

klwagoner

I exercised my option to do nothing (not recommending that, that's just me). I'm not wasting my time at the dealership having them "check" some things. I have the tires rotated at Discount tire and it isn't time for an oil change (and when it is, Lexus won't be doing it anyway).

goodrx350

Thanks Tom.

erom43

Thanks, all this info was helpful. From what I found out, I can do items I am capable of (fluid levels, belt checks, key fob batteries etc.), and just take the car anyplace that can do a tire rotation, or a premium oil change when needed. Tire Kingdom or Tires Plus or Discount Tire come to mind. Resetting the maintenance warning took a bit of research. I am currently getting close to 30,000 miles, and from what I can see, that may be fairly expensive. I will check with the local Toyota dealer first.

goodrx350

erom43, you should definitely comparison shop. When I checked with several Lexus dealers for 15K service, I found prices ranging from $68.81 up to $394.71. At the high end, they will replace differential fluid and cabin air filter in addition to Lexus recommended servicing. The $68.81 people will do everything required by Lexus. Whereas the $248 guys will not even replace the fob batteries or re-torque drive shaft as recommended in the manual. Moral of the story: ask what they will do - it looks like each dealer has their own interpretation of what is required. And ask how much it costs.

As for me, I am going to the lowest priced dealer tomorrow as they are doing everything recommended in the manual. It is 43 miles away but compared to paying $160 more to the dealer near my house for half the job, I deem it well worth the extra drive.