I did a forum search but couldn't find exactly what I was looking for.

I have an '01 ES300 with 32k miles. Been running Mobil 1 and changing oil and filter every 5k miles. I also use gas dryer (Heet) or STP gas treatement in the winter. I don't punish the car - I actually drive quite gently.

I have this black soot accumulating on the inside of my tailpipe. It doesn't feel oily but it feels like what I get on my finger when I run it across the powder cake that my girlfriend uses to powder her face. It doesn't seem to be using oil, although it was a bit low (one-fifth of a quart) the other day. I have about 2200 miles on this oil.

It almost seems like it could be running really rich but my mileage is ok. Here are some questions:

Could it be the gas line dryer or the STP gas treatment causing the black soot?

Would it be advisable to switch back to dino oil?

Another point - my dad has an ES300 identical to mine, except his came with Michelins and mine came with Bridgestones. I maintain them both. Mine has black soot and his does not, although his only has 18k miles. But in a Lexus, there shouldn't be any difference between 18k and 32k miles. Heck, 32k is barely broken in!

Thanks in advance.

 

wow...im amazed at this thread


but anyway... yea its normal, i wouldnt worry about it... its just exhaust soot dude

 

Thanks man. And thanks for being amazed.

 

Update: I changed back to dino oil (Pennzoil 5w-30) and voilá - no more exhaust soot! I'm so happy.