raylor4

Took my '11RX350 into Roseville Toyota for an oil change at 72K. The service advisor recommended a 70K service which consisted mainly of adding something to the coolant to extend it's life and flushing the engine to get rid of any sludge that may have built up. Oil has been changed every 10K with synthetic since new. All this and a few other "inspection" items for only an estimated $700. I told him I've never heard of any of these things and I'll just stick with the oil change. He wasn't happy after that. Got the oil/filter changed for $80. Has anyone heard of the aforementioned service items? I think he was just looking to up his commission. Motor runs great. Ray A.

tempestv8

Never heard of a coolant additive. Sounds like an upsell to me with dubious value.

Re engine sludge, was there any evidence of sludge build up? Sounds like another profit fattening sales tactic.

salimshah

There is a product "water wetter" this reduces the water tension and helps make an improved contact between water molecules and metal. Technically it reduces hot spots.

Salim

Clutchless

They had a sales quota to fill.

The Toyota Long Life Coolant installed at the factory is supposed to last 10 years or 100,000 miles. I bet you could get a complete drain and fill of the Long Life Coolant for a lot less money.

As said above Engine sludge cleaning is not needed unless there is an issue. This engine is not known for sludge issues, unlike the old 3.0 V6.

raylor4

Thanks everyone for your input. I am convinced that the service advisors are on commission and have to answer to their bosses as to why a customer didn't go for the upsell.
No evidence of sludge, no reason to add anything to the coolant. No coolant leaks per Lexus a week prior when it was in there for a door lock solenoid repair.
All the best.
Ray A.