2001 RX300 45,000 mile service

[MONKEYMAN]

I help a friend maintain her Lexus. The first 35,000 miles it was dealer maintained and did have 30,000 mile maintenance. Brake fluid was flushed at the time and differential fluid changed. But, according to the dealership they could not confirm if transmission fluid was drained and refilled. They said to look at the receipt and the owner lost the receipt. My friend said she scheduled 45,000 mile maintenance at Lexus. I change her oil. Her tires will be rotated at Sam's. I did air filter and PCV. It looks like the main thing is transmission fluid and replacing differential oil. Lexus dealership said they only do a transmission drain and refill, so I had 5 bottles of Type T-IV Toyota transmission fluid ready to go.

I don't see a need to go to Lexus for this service. I am thinking the local mechanic can do the differential fluid and check the underside for problems. This car looks like new and drives like new. Am I missing something?

This RX300 is a 7/2001 build date, so I think it is sludge prone engine. I am using Pennzoil Platinum for 5,000 mile yearly interval. My concern is the transmission. I am not sure if it has the one that has been prone to sudden failure. I want to recommend what is best for the transmission. At this point the Lexus may outlive the owner at the mileage she drives per year. I am thinking a drain and refill will be sufficient since that is all the dealership would do (for a much higher price).

What would you recommend for the timing belt replacement? She is way under the miles, but has a lot of years on the car. The accessory belt looks new, if that is any indication of how the timing belt is holding up.

 

[simple_gifts]

T-IV? Is that confirmed?

edit: it appears so.

 

[bepperb]

Any mechanic can do this service. Yes, the 3.0 is a sludge prone engine but with 5000 mile OCI I doubt you'll have issues.

I'm sure the timing belt could go a bit further, but it's going to need to be done at some point and should be good to go for another decade once it's done so what's the point of waiting. This could also be done by an independent, it's the same 3.0 v6 in a ton of Toyota vehicles (not the inline 6 that the IS and GS lexuses had).

 

[MONKEYMAN]

Originally Posted By: simple_gifts
T-IV? Is that confirmed?


Yes.

 

[Doog]

Do a cooler line flush with either T-IV or WS fluid. The WS is backwards compatible. Also, make sure if there is a front diff like on the RX330 that it gets changed as well with 80w90.

 

[MONKEYMAN]

Originally Posted By: bepperb
Any mechanic can do this service. Yes, the 3.0 is a sludge prone engine but with 5000 mile OCI I doubt you'll have issues.

I'm sure the timing belt could go a bit further, but it's going to need to be done at some point and should be good to go for another decade once it's done so what's the point of waiting. This could also be done by an independent, it's the same 3.0 v6 in a ton of Toyota vehicles (not the inline 6 that the IS and GS lexuses had).


The owner does not understand mechanical things. She does understand Lexus says to do certain maintenance at 45,000 miles. Last month I had recommended her transmission fluid be changed and she said she did not want to go looking for problems. Now she is all over this 45,000 mile service schedule. I am not sure if she will grasp the timing belt thing. She may need some evidence or something authoritative to convince her to do it now. Can I tell her bepperb said so?

 

[MONKEYMAN]

Originally Posted By: Doog
Do a cooler line flush with either T-IV or WS fluid. The WS is backwards compatible. Also, make sure if there is a front diff like on the RX330 that it gets changed as well with 80w90.


I have been over to Club Lexus and the concensus tends to be to not do the flush. They have a nice write up for a drain and refill that I could do on a regular basis.

This is the AWD model. Wouldn't the local mechanic that has been changing diff fluid since I was in diapers know what to use?

 

[Doog]

Originally Posted By: MONKEYMAN
Originally Posted By: Doog
Do a cooler line flush with either T-IV or WS fluid. The WS is backwards compatible. Also, make sure if there is a front diff like on the RX330 that it gets changed as well with 80w90.


I have been over to Club Lexus and the concensus tends to be to not do the flush. They have a nice write up for a drain and refill that I could do on a regular basis.

This is the AWD model. Wouldn't the local mechanic that has been changing diff fluid since I was in diapers know what to use?


I had an AWD RX330 and did the cooler line flushes every 50k...traded at 165000 still shifting like new. Mine had 2 differentials one in front and one in rear plus the trans. I think some of the models have 1 in the rear and the front one is inside the trans and uses the ATF. That is why I said to check to make sure both were done. I never trust "the local mechanic" just my experience. The front diff plug on the 330 is very hard to see. Had several mechanics miss it.

 

[MONKEYMAN]

Originally Posted By: Doog
Originally Posted By: MONKEYMAN
Originally Posted By: Doog
Do a cooler line flush with either T-IV or WS fluid. The WS is backwards compatible. Also, make sure if there is a front diff like on the RX330 that it gets changed as well with 80w90.


I have been over to Club Lexus and the concensus tends to be to not do the flush. They have a nice write up for a drain and refill that I could do on a regular basis.

This is the AWD model. Wouldn't the local mechanic that has been changing diff fluid since I was in diapers know what to use?


I had an AWD RX330 and did the cooler line flushes every 50k...traded at 165000 still shifting like new. Mine had 2 differentials one in front and one in rear plus the trans. I think some of the models have 1 in the rear and the front one is inside the trans and uses the ATF. That is why I said to check to make sure both were done. I never trust "the local mechanic" just my experience. The front diff plug on the 330 is very hard to see. Had several mechanics miss it.


The first generation had problems with the planetary gear shedding metal. I think that is where drain and refill comes in. The mechanic I am thinking of does safety inspections for Lexus. He may be more familiar with this vehicle than some mechanics.

 

[MONKEYMAN]

Something else to consider. I went to Lexus.com to get service records. It does not say what was done during 30,000 mile service. I also looked at the service schedule. It only says to inspect differential oil. No mention of changing transmission fluid and 30,000 miles or 45,000 miles. Maybe that is why I could not get conclusive info since Lexus changed the service schedule.

Both service schedules have Re-torque drive shaft flange bolts. Is that important?

Should differential oil be good for another 15,000 miles? It was changed at 30,000 miles. If so, I am thinking a drain and refill of transmission fluid is the essential thing for now.

 

[The Critic]

WS is not backwards compatible. I do not know why someone is saying that full flushes with T-IV are not ok, just do a full flush with T-IV.

 

[MONKEYMAN]

Originally Posted By: The Critic
WS is not backwards compatible. I do not know why someone is saying that full flushes with T-IV are not ok, just do a full flush with T-IV.


I figured WS was not backward compatible. I want to play it safe. There have been reports of the transmission failing after a full flush. Some places will not do it on this transmission. Lexus dealership only does a drain and refill. I am go to play it safe route. I am just happy the owner wants to have the transmission fluid changed. I have been waiting for several years to get the OK on that one.

 

[lexus114]

The 2001 RX300 is a very stout vehicle. In some way`s better than my 2005. However, problem area`s are; AWD trans, air fuel ratio sensor`s, A/C vent motor`s, (I forget what their called) Coil pack`s, Sludge issue`s if not maintained properly, power door lock actuator`s. And sometimes issues with the auto leveling switch (for hid headlamps) located behind the pass rear wheel. I had my 2001 for two years, and the only issue I had was my window washer fluid pump burned out. I think it was better in snow too. If you have any other questions re; this vehicle, PM me.

 

[ChiTDI]

+1 to Critic about the WS not being DexIII or T-IV compatible.
I'd be real anal on the OEM PCV useage too.
Not sure on the AWD procedures and fluids, sorry.
I would do 30k ATF drains regularly. There is a 10mm hex drain plug on the FWD models, I'd assume the AWD have one.

 

[ChiTDI]

Originally Posted By: MONKEYMAN
What would you recommend for the timing belt replacement? She is way under the miles, but has a lot of years on the car. The accessory belt looks new, if that is any indication of how the timing belt is holding up.


Forgot to address this, and it was probably the most important item. Toyota service reps will usually agree on 90k or six/seven years for a TB. Many readers will disagree, but belt longevity is different by climate too. Talk to a Texan and you won't see him trying to go 150k or twelve years on a belt for an interference engine.


That should bring you a few hundred responses!

 

[hypervish]

Originally Posted By: MONKEYMAN
Originally Posted By: Doog
Do a cooler line flush with either T-IV or WS fluid. The WS is backwards compatible. Also, make sure if there is a front diff like on the RX330 that it gets changed as well with 80w90.


I have been over to Club Lexus and the concensus tends to be to not do the flush. They have a nice write up for a drain and refill that I could do on a regular basis.

This is the AWD model. Wouldn't the local mechanic that has been changing diff fluid since I was in diapers know what to use?


Correct, stay away from flushing. ONLY drain and fill!

And, no WS is not backwards compatible. Stick with TOYOTA TYPE-IV or Castrol Transmax IMV.

 

[hypervish]

As far as the timing belt, have it changed, it is past due when considering the years, not miles. Also, this engine is interference so you do not want the belt to break.

 

[MONKEYMAN]

Originally Posted By: hypervish
As far as the timing belt, have it changed, it is past due when considering the years, not miles. Also, this engine is interference so you do not want the belt to break.


Thanks. I talked to the owner and the first thing she asked is was a belt replacement on 45,000 mile maintenance. I explained importance and she gave me permission to call for some quotes. Here are the results:

The local Toyota dealership will do timing belt for $450.00. They check the water pump. If replaced it is an extra 370.00 dollars. Other parts extra if needed.

It is $50 to change fluid in each differential.

Lexus wanted $1,000 for the timing belt change, but they change the water pump also. Other parts may be extra if needed.

Then the 45,000 mile service starts in the $350-$400 range. But can be $500 plus. They only check differential fluid. It is extra to replace. Same with transmission fluid. They use the exchange machine that costs $250.00. A few years ago I was told they do a drain and refill? Looks like Lexus could easily be $2000 by time you are done depending on what they talk you into.

My experience is Lexus service department is for those who have a lot of disposable income.

Both dealerships recommended timing belt be replaced between 5-7 years.

If I knew of a reputable indy shop that could do the job I would try to get the bid.

 

[hypervish]

Originally Posted By: MONKEYMAN
Originally Posted By: hypervish
As far as the timing belt, have it changed, it is past due when considering the years, not miles. Also, this engine is interference so you do not want the belt to break.


Thanks. I talked to the owner and the first thing she asked is was a belt replacement on 45,000 mile maintenance. I explained importance and she gave me permission to call for some quotes. Here are the results:

The local Toyota dealership will do timing belt for $450.00. They check the water pump. If replaced it is an extra 370.00 dollars. Other parts extra if needed.

It is $50 to change fluid in each differential.

Lexus wanted $1,000 for the timing belt change, but they change the water pump also. Other parts may be extra if needed.

Then the 45,000 mile service starts in the $350-$400 range. But can be $500 plus. They only check differential fluid. It is extra to replace. Same with transmission fluid. They use the exchange machine that costs $250.00. A few years ago I was told they do a drain and refill? Looks like Lexus could easily be $2000 by time you are done depending on what they talk you into.

My experience is Lexus service department is for those who have a lot of disposable income.

Both dealerships recommended timing belt be replaced between 5-7 years.

If I knew of a reputable indy shop that could do the job I would try to get the bid.


Toyota dealership is probably the way to go, unless the owner wants a loaner to drive around while the RX is in the shop.

To be honest, I wouldn't even get the 45,000 mile service. All they will do is rotate tires, check tire pressure, inspect a bunch of stuff, change engine oil/filter, and change the cabin air filter. Oh, and re-torque drive shaft flange bolts.

The cabin air filter ($12) is easy to DIY, and takes about 5 minutes. Rotating tires can be done elsewhere.

Have Toyota do the drain and fill. And, if the owner doesn't mind spending a $100 extra, then definitely get the transfer case and rear differential fluid changed. (front differential shares fluid with the transmission, so that will be changed with the drain and fill)

 

[MONKEYMAN]

This is getting interesting. I have the owners manual with service schedule.

It does state to replace timing belt every 90,000 miles or 72 months. I will tell her to go to Toyota for that.

Regarding differential fluid it has a disclaimer: "Only if vehicle is operated primarily while towing a trailer or using a camper or car-top carrier". It was replaced 15,000 miles ago and she only uses vehicle as a grocery getter. I don't see a need to replace it or am I missing something?

That leaves retorquing those pesky drive shaft flange bolts. I have AlldataDIY and it is pretty useless for this. I may be able to do that but don't have enough info.

I did cabin filter 7,000 miles ago. I will check it.

Then I would do drain and refill with transmssion fluid and call it done.