I've been trailer towing two summers now, pulling a 3000 lb pop-up camper with my 08 RX-350 w/ trailer towing package.

The book says to change these fluids at 15,000 miles when "predominately towing trailers"

I've actually logged only about 4000 miles of actual trailer towing- so am wondering when I should replace these fluids and can I do this myself with Mobil One products?

Thanks for your help!

Rocky Kimball
Highlands Ranch, Colorado

 

If you are doing the work yourself, go for the 15000 mile change. If you are paying someone to do the work, split the difference. Go half way between the normal interval and the trailering interval.

Gary
ps, the change isn't challenging at all - just a bit messy

 

Hey Rock, I got a question for you since I see you are from Colorado. I'm planning to be in the Pagosa Springs area in mid November. Am I going to have any problems negotiating forest service roads in 12-15 inches of snow ?

 

If you tow, change it at 15000.

 

Not to dissapoint you, but, the RX is just a Camry wagon or Sienna van. They are far from Heavy duty! Change the fluid often and use Mobil 1 or other synthetic fluids. Also change the transmission fluid often as that is the weak link in the power train. This is a front wheel drive car and is a very light duty tow car at that. The brake fluid should also be changed to synthetic, and changed often when towing as they too are light duty.