Alright I've done a search on the board and there seems to be a lot of opinions on what services need to be done at 30K miles. But alot of these are for the 2001-2003 LS430. I have an 04 LS430 ML and want to know exactly what I have to have done before I walk into the dealership this week. I know I don't have to flush the transmission, but what about the coolant. So far I'm doing an oil change, air filter, and in-cabin filter change. Is there anything else?

 

The dealer service advisor told me it consisted of an oil change, rear diff fluid change, and lots of checking of stuff for $479. They wash the car and provide a loaner.

The independent Lexus mechanic said it also includes power steering change, brake fluid flush, air filter, and cabin air filter. He charged $492.

 

There is a PDF file on the lexus.com/lexus.ca My Vehicle section that outlines the recommended maintenance intervals and items. Also, there should be a manual with the car that contains the same information.

I'd like to mention that changing your engine air filter and cabin air filter is pretty easy and if you buy the parts online and change them yourself, you could save some money. Don't forget to reset the cabin air filter "light" after you change it - the procedure is on this forum somewhere.

When you take your car in for service, just tell them not to look at the engine air filter or cabin filter.

I just took my car in for service, and as I had 4 new winter tires installed, I opted out of the rotate/balance tires option. Opting out of these things should reduce labor time.

 

Since it's a 04 and not a 03, you should be okay w/ the engine coolant and ATF until at least 60K. At 30K, I'd have the brakes flushed. When I get to 30K, I'll probably change my rear diff fluid to synthetic and not have to change it for another 50K mi. BTW, some LS430 diffs came w/ synthetic. It will say on the side of the diff housing (but 'ya have to get under the vehicle to find out!).

 

So this is directly from the myLexus website pdf I downloaded. The only thing I don't see is replacing the rear diff fluid. In fact I don't see the schedule telling me to ever change the rear diff, transmission fluid, and it says to change the coolant at 100K. It only says to inspect these items every 30K.

Replace engine oil and oil filter
Replace brake fluid
Replace engine air filter
Replace air conditioner filter
Rotate tires
Measure brake pad thickness and rotor runout
Road test vehicle
Inspection #1, #2, & #3
30000

 

The transmission fluid in 2004 and later models does not have an official service interval. The transmission is a sealed type with "maintenance-free" transmission fluid.

If you have obtained the correct maintenance guide for your car's year, following it exactly should be just fine.