Oil Change (extraction method?)
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2024
Posts: 485
Likes: 110
I just don't like someone else sitting in my car unless I have to haha
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2024
Posts: 485
Likes: 110
Check the model of your engine. If it matches to a Toyota model (like Camry), it will fit.
You will notice genuine parts will usually have Toyota/Lexus genuine parts for this reason.
You will notice genuine parts will usually have Toyota/Lexus genuine parts for this reason.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 5,316
Likes: 1,606
From: SE PA
Dealers use bulk oil which I call "mystery oil". You can buy name brand full synthetic oil at Walmart for cheap such as Pennzoil, Castrol, Quaker State, and others, and an OEM filter at the Toyota/Lexus dealer if desired. A pack of Dorman washers is about $5.00 at Pep Boys or Auto Zone.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 9,537
Likes: 2,592
If I still had to do oil changes, extractor would definitely be my way to go. I used to do that on my BMWs back in the day. On that particular engine I was rebuilding one and I did a test with the oil pan out to see how far the tube would go and it goes straight to the bottom. So anyone saying it doesn't get all the oil out is speculating without testing the actual pan. I suppose you can look at a pic of a used oil pan of your engine to see if there's any obstructions preventing the tube from touching the bottom.
At the end of the day you're splitting hairs. it's not a rocket motor so replacing 94% vs 95.2% of the oil is not going to really be a substantial difference in the grand scheme of things, assuming it's even true the extractor picks up less oil.
Also no one is saying you won't replace the filter if you used the extractor method. Of course it would be replaced. Goes without saying.
PS i looked at a pic of the 2.5L oil pan. i dont see any reason why the tube wouldn't reach the bottom. but i haven't tested it so. i suppose all one has to do is drain the oil using the traditional method, then stick a tube down there and see how high the oil stain goes.
At the end of the day you're splitting hairs. it's not a rocket motor so replacing 94% vs 95.2% of the oil is not going to really be a substantial difference in the grand scheme of things, assuming it's even true the extractor picks up less oil.
Also no one is saying you won't replace the filter if you used the extractor method. Of course it would be replaced. Goes without saying.
PS i looked at a pic of the 2.5L oil pan. i dont see any reason why the tube wouldn't reach the bottom. but i haven't tested it so. i suppose all one has to do is drain the oil using the traditional method, then stick a tube down there and see how high the oil stain goes.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 9,619
Likes: 3,422
From: NJ
If I still had to do oil changes, extractor would definitely be my way to go. I used to do that on my BMWs back in the day. On that particular engine I was rebuilding one and I did a test with the oil pan out to see how far the tube would go and it goes straight to the bottom. So anyone saying it doesn't get all the oil out is speculating without testing the actual pan. I suppose you can look at a pic of a used oil pan of your engine to see if there's any obstructions preventing the tube from touching the bottom.
At the end of the day you're splitting hairs. it's not a rocket motor so replacing 94% vs 95.2% of the oil is not going to really be a substantial difference in the grand scheme of things, assuming it's even true the extractor picks up less oil.
Also no one is saying you won't replace the filter if you used the extractor method. Of course it would be replaced. Goes without saying.
PS i looked at a pic of the 2.5L oil pan. i dont see any reason why the tube wouldn't reach the bottom. but i haven't tested it so. i suppose all one has to do is drain the oil using the traditional method, then stick a tube down there and see how high the oil stain goes.
At the end of the day you're splitting hairs. it's not a rocket motor so replacing 94% vs 95.2% of the oil is not going to really be a substantial difference in the grand scheme of things, assuming it's even true the extractor picks up less oil.
Also no one is saying you won't replace the filter if you used the extractor method. Of course it would be replaced. Goes without saying.
PS i looked at a pic of the 2.5L oil pan. i dont see any reason why the tube wouldn't reach the bottom. but i haven't tested it so. i suppose all one has to do is drain the oil using the traditional method, then stick a tube down there and see how high the oil stain goes.
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Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 9,537
Likes: 2,592
it works better though when you don't have to get under the car. this is why BMW designs (as to the oil filter being on top) is superior.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 5,316
Likes: 1,606
From: SE PA
It would be nice (and easier) if Lexus placed the filter on top of the engine. Alas, it's down below where the oil reservoir drain plug is so if you want to change your oil (and filter) yourself, you're on the ground extractor or not... That is, unless you're Mike's neighbor with a VW...
Pole Position
Joined: Jan 2020
Posts: 2,738
Likes: 544
From: CA
I don't understand this post in the least, as I've changed oil traditionally my whole life, and haven't ever had an issue with the standard procedure.
The valves that replace the oil plug are cool, but slow to drain, and someone who was trying to mess with you could drain your oil while you are parked, and you'd risk ruining your engine if you drove it.
The extraction method seems doable, but you risk not getting all the old oil out, so why risk it?
For anyone new to changing your own oil, do it for a few years the traditional way and with experience you will find ways to make it go quick and easy.
The valves that replace the oil plug are cool, but slow to drain, and someone who was trying to mess with you could drain your oil while you are parked, and you'd risk ruining your engine if you drove it.
The extraction method seems doable, but you risk not getting all the old oil out, so why risk it?
For anyone new to changing your own oil, do it for a few years the traditional way and with experience you will find ways to make it go quick and easy.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 5,316
Likes: 1,606
From: SE PA
I'm with you Wilson. If you don't want to change your oil the correct and established way, get it done professionally and forget about it. There are those of us that enjoy working on our cars and don't mind getting our hands dirty. The plus is that you know it's done right and you're not getting screwed. 
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2024
Posts: 485
Likes: 110
100 percent..
You don't know what oil they are using.
What I also find is that everytime I take it in, they over fill the damn thing slighly! I know it shouldn't cause an issue but I am very OCD when it comes to maintenance
You don't know what oil they are using.
What I also find is that everytime I take it in, they over fill the damn thing slighly! I know it shouldn't cause an issue but I am very OCD when it comes to maintenance
I'm with you Wilson. If you don't want to change your oil the correct and established way, get it done professionally and forget about it. There are those of us that enjoy working on our cars and don't mind getting our hands dirty. The plus is that you know it's done right and you're not getting screwed.
Last edited by es250fsport; Apr 3, 2025 at 06:35 AM.
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,099
Likes: 36
From: Dickinson, Texas