I have a new Lexus RX 330 with 1200 miles on it. I'm about to take a 1,500 mile trip.

I asked my local dealer for an oil change and was told "we don't recommend an oil change before 5,000 miles."

Huh?

How can it harm the car to change the oil? Wouldn't it be a GOOD thing? Especially given what I've heard about problems with the RX 300.

Advice please!

 

A new car needs to develop a base (a little sludge if you will) as a means of protection for the future. That is why some cars call for driving 500 miles on a lightweight oil and low speeds before changing oil. Even with a Lexus, this is a wise decision.

As for the 5,000 mile observation, that depends. I am not sure if the RX330 comes with synthetic fluid from the factory, like a BMW, but I highly doubt 5,000 miles is necessary. At the very least 500 to 1,000 miles, and then switch over.

Bottom line: With 1,200 miles, you do no harm by changing your oil.

 

When I picked up my car, I was told by the lexus salesperson to come in at 1000 and 5000 miles for a free oil change. I just checked the owners manual and the 1K (30 day) and 5K maintenance services are free. Unfortunately, only an oil service is listed for the 5K service, so I guess my dealer threw that in gratis.

 

I was willing to pay for the oil change, cause I'm going to drive the car 1500 miles across country.

The tech told me they don't WANT you to do an oil change until 5,000 miles. He also said that the cross country trip would be good for the engine.

I'm looking for input here!

 

I don't know specifically about the Lexus as I never inquired, but other car manufacturers often have a special "Break In Oil" in the brand new cars. I know know one of my other cars has this break in oil from the factory and the manufacturer (Not the dealer) specifies 7500 miles on this special oil. Idid look at the manual and it does recomend the 1st change at 5000K but made no mention of any break in oil. Genereally I follow the manufacturers recomendation for the fist 5000-7500 miles then follow my own car maintenance habbits.

 

Just called Longo Lexus and found out that they charge $41 to rotated tires. Doesn't that sound kind of expensive for just taking off and re-installing?

 

IT'S THOSE $80.00 HR HANDS!

 

Do they rebalance your tires? If so, it is not bad otherwise its a rip off.