Hi, Lexus folks.

New to this Lexus board, but not auto forums in general. I've been on the Passatworld forum for some time, and it's set up much like this one. So, before I'm flamed right away, yes, I have indeed used the search function. I've read conflicting posts, which is why I'm asking.

We bought an '06 RX 330 a month ago with 38K, and so far we've been very pleased with it. I've done a lot of reading on this forum, and it's been very informative so I'm posting this question for some clarification.

I came across a Lexus TSB from March of 2006 stating that 5W20 oil is now the preferred oil for '06 models with certain engine codes. One of those codes is MZ and unless I'm a total moron and can't read the owner's manual properly, the engine code for our 3.3L V6 is an MZ.

I'm due to make the first oil change since our purchase, so I'm looking for a little assistance. Have any of you switched from the 5W30 that Lexus originally specified to 5W20 (or 0W20 for cold climates like our lovely Wisconsin winters)? Any comments/feedback would be appreciated.

 

First of all a warm welcome.

Thanks to members and moderators, there is no one who flames any post on this board. We have had ample disagreements but no name calling. Yes there are reminders to search but most of the times the links are posted. We all understand that at times a new member may not be familiar.

When it comes to oil types, brand and weights, you are bound to have disagreements.

I would follow the the owners manual and if necessary call the dealership service dept for any suggested improvements. Typically the dealership may prefer a broader range which may be suitable for driving any where in continental US.

My personal view is the wider the spread, the additives have to work harder. I prefer narrower range [10-30 for central Texas year round].

Salim

 

There is a TSB regarding using 5w20 in certain Toyota engines, including the one in the RX. You can read all about oil until your eyes bleed here - www.bobistheoilguy.com Suffice to say, 5w20 has been used for a number of years on a number of engines to no ill effect. There are numerous UOAs (used oil analysis) posted at bobistheoilguy showing excellent wear numbers using 5w20.

Myself (for my RX400h) I will be running 0w20 (lots of cold starts and short trips in the winter for me) in the winter months and 5w30 in the summer months.