Hi All,
The other day I attempted to change my own oil on my RX300, but discovered it was impossible to reach the oil filter with my trusty oil filter gripper, nor was I barley able to get a hand on the filter let alone any leverage on it.
I have always been able to change my own oil on other cars, but I'm fine with taking it to the dealer, but any suggestions are appreciated.

This leads me to my conspiracy theory!.. and I fine with anyone knocking it down as I am no auto mechanic ...here goes.
I have heard talk about the RX300 oil sludge build up problem AND people that have noticed that the techs changing RX300s' oil have not been replacing the oil filter due to its' location. I am wondering if the two are related...mmmm.

 

Haven't heard of mechanics not changing the oil filter when changing the oil....it's an intresting conspiracy theory.......but sounds more like an urban ledgend to me.

 

Search the forum for the do-it-yourself instructions on the oil change.
It can be done... the only time I've let the dealer change the oil is when it was free.

Although it's harder than it should be, you can get to the filter from either the top or the bottom of the car. On the RX300, it's helpful to bend/move the horn to get it out of the way if you want to get in from the top. There are fewer obstacles if you try to get at it from under the car, but taking off the bottom cover is a drag because of all the screws in it.

 

Check this website for RX300 oil change instruction. For DIYer without jackstands, it's better to do it from above. You'll just have to relocate the horn and some hose.

http://rx300how2.home.comcast.net/oil.htm

Some cheap oil change places skip oil filter change (so they can save on the 50-cent Fram filter.) I bet few Lexus owners take their cars to places like that. If all else fails and you want to save money, take it to Toyota ExpressLube.

 

right, I do it without jacks and use the crack-the filter-slow drip method to drain it fully before removing it - check out the how-to link on Harrier's post, works good for me, though still some mess to wipe down here. no conspiracy imo

 

You won't be able to get to the filter from the top if you're built like ARNOLD, even if you removed the horn and radiator... : )~ You have to have girly arms, which unfortunately, I have...

If you go from the top, you won't be able to use those cap type filter 'wrench' because those always tend to slip when the filer cap and filter don't fit just right. You can bypass this by using sandpaper for grip, but it's just a hassle.

I use a loop filter wrench (attached) which just goes over the filter, attaches to a 3/8" socket (with 3" extension) and turns the filter in the direction of the wrench. To tighten, turn closkwise, to loosen, counter-clockwise. Very easy, no grip problems.

You can get this at any of those generic car part places for around $10.

The filter location is a b-tch to get to, but with this filter wrench, makes it better.

Good luck.