Keeping your 2022 Lexus NX350 running at its peak requires fluids that can handle the demands of its turbocharged 2.4-liter engine. The NX350’s powertrain, equipped with the T24A-FTS B engine, operates under high temperatures and pressures that conventional oils simply cannot manage for extended periods. Using the correct lubricants ensures optimal fuel economy, reduces wear on critical components, and extends the service life of the vehicle. This guide provides specific AMSOIL recommendations tailored to the exact specifications of your Lexus, covering everything from the engine and transmission to the cooling system and brakes.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The premier choice for maximum horsepower protection and extended service intervals up to 25,000 miles, specifically designed to handle the stresses of the NX350’s turbocharger.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers a robust balance of cleaning power and protection, ideal for drivers seeking 20,000-mile change intervals with enhanced performance against low-speed pre-ignition.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective synthetic solution that provides excellent sludge control and meets OEM specifications, perfect for those who prefer standard annual service schedules.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated specifically for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring enhanced detergents to clean deposits and seal conditioners to reduce consumption.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter EA15K09-EA – Delivers superior filtration efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns, with higher capacity to trap contaminants and reduce engine wear better than standard filters.
- WIX Oil Filter WL10332-EA – A premium alternative media filter that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer branded filters, ensuring clean oil flow for the engine.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions, protecting the 8-speed UA81F transmission from wear.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides a fuel-efficient, durable solution that protects the transmission against wear and helps maintain smooth shifting performance.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed 50/50 ethylene glycol formulation that protects cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Essential for the transfer case and rear differential, this lube controls thermal runaway and provides extreme pressure protection for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent anti-lock braking and traction control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, ideal for the high-performance braking systems.
Engine oil is the lifeblood of your Lexus NX350, and because it is equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, the heat and stress placed on the lubricant are significant. The engine requires a viscosity that flows quickly at startup to lubricate critical components while maintaining a protective film at operating temperatures. AMSOIL 0W-20 motor oils are engineered to meet these exact needs, offering superior cold-start protection compared to conventional oils. The Signature Series 0W-20 stands out as the top recommendation for maximum performance, offering 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear based on independent testing. It is designed to withstand the extreme heat generated by the turbocharger, preventing coking and deposit formation that can damage expensive engine parts.
If you are looking for a balance between high performance and value, the Extended-Life 0W-20 provides 37% more cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoother over time. For owners who prefer to adhere strictly to factory-recommended intervals or want a reliable synthetic option without the extended mileage claims of the Signature Series, the OE 0W-20 Motor Oil is an excellent choice. It fights sludge and deposits effectively while meeting the necessary OEM specifications. For vehicles that have surpassed 75,000 miles, the High-Mileage 0W-20 utilizes a unique chemistry with boosted detergents and anti-wear additives to reduce sludge by 67% and help minimize oil consumption.
When changing your oil, the filter is just as critical as the fluid itself. The AMSOIL Oil Filter is designed to match the high-flow characteristics of synthetic oil. It provides filtering efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns, capturing small wear-causing contaminants that standard filters might miss. This extended service life and high capacity help reduce engine wear, ensuring that your clean oil stays clean for the duration of the change interval. The WIX Oil Filter is also a compatible premium option, featuring high-quality media that improves upon the filtration capabilities of original equipment filters.
Transmission and Drivetrain Lubrication
The 2022 Lexus NX350 comes equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission (UA81F) that is designed for smooth, responsive shifting. However, the fluid inside this transmission is subjected to high temperatures, especially during heavy towing or spirited driving. Using AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid ensures that the transmission remains fluid even in sub-zero temperatures and withstands the rigors of challenging terrain. This fluid provides reserve protection during heavy use, reducing friction and extending the life of the transmission components. The AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient fluid is another solid option for regular maintenance, offering protection against wear while helping to maintain optimal fuel economy.
The drivetrain of the NX350 includes a transfer case and a rear differential that require specialized lubrication. The transfer case utilizes a GL-5 specification fluid, and the rear differential requires 1.1 pints of 75W-85 gear lube. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the recommended lubricant for these components. It contains advanced friction modifiers for limited-slip differentials and controls thermal runaway, which helps reduce operating temperatures and protects against rust and corrosion. Using this synthetic gear lube extends the life of your oil, seals, and equipment, ensuring reliable power delivery to the wheels.
Cooling System and Brake Fluid
Maintaining the correct cooling system capacity is vital for the health of the turbocharged engine. The engine requires 9.1 quarts of AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant, and the intercooler requires an additional 2.9 quarts. This antifreeze is a 50/50 pre-mixed formulation that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses. It is phosphate-, nitrate-, nitrite-, silicate-, borate-, and amine-free, making it compatible with a wide variety of vehicle cooling systems while offering protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years. For those who prefer a concentrated formula, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers protection up to 150,000 miles in passenger cars and requires mixing with distilled water.
AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is another critical fluid often overlooked. The 2022 Lexus NX350 requires DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. This product offers excellent anti-lock braking and traction-control responsiveness. It maintains a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent pedal feel and stopping power. This synthetic brake fluid has a higher boiling point than conventional DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluids, reducing the risk of vapor lock and brake fade during hard stops.
Additional Protection and Maintenance
Beyond the essential fluids, there are several other AMSOIL products that can enhance the performance and longevity of your Lexus NX350. The AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive is a powerful fuel system cleaner that can restore up to 14% horsepower and clean GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after just one tank of fuel. It also helps improve fuel economy and reduces the need for higher-octane fuel. For long-term storage, the AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer keeps fuel fresh for up to 12 months, while the AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil protects internal engine components from rust during inactivity.
Keeping your vehicle clean is also part of a comprehensive maintenance routine. The AMSOIL Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax Spray provides a fantastic shine and a tough protective finish without the need for soap or water. For interior maintenance, the Interior Detailers (Light Lemon and Scent-Free) offer multi-surface cleaning with 90-day UV protection. The AMSOIL Glass Cleaner effectively cuts through grease and grime without streaks, while the AMSOIL High-Foam Car Shampoo is designed for bucket washes and foam cannons, breaking down contaminants gently on your paint.
Vehicle Background
Introduced as a crossover utility vehicle that sits between the Lexus UX and the larger RX, the 2022 Lexus NX350 represents a significant leap in performance and technology for the brand. Built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-C platform, the NX350 is designed to offer a more dynamic driving experience while maintaining the hallmark comfort and reliability associated with the Lexus nameplate. The vehicle is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, code-named T24A-FTS, which delivers a substantial amount of power and torque compared to the naturally aspirated engines of previous generations.
The NX350 is a compact luxury crossover that appeals to drivers seeking a balance between practicality and sportiness. Its market position is strong, targeting consumers who want a sophisticated daily driver that can handle commuting, family duties, and weekend adventures. The turbocharged powertrain provides responsive acceleration, making highway merging and passing maneuvers feel effortless. Inside, the vehicle features a modern cabin with high-quality materials, advanced safety technology, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The driving character of the NX350 is refined and composed, with a suspension setup that absorbs road imperfections well while offering enough feedback to feel connected to the road.
Owners of the 2022 Lexus NX350 often appreciate the vehicle’s blend of style, performance, and efficiency. The availability of all-wheel drive options adds versatility for various weather conditions. However, like any modern high-performance engine, the NX350’s turbocharged system places unique demands on the vehicle’s lubrication systems. The high operating temperatures and the reliance on precise oil flow for turbocharger cooling mean that synthetic lubricants are not just a luxury but a necessity for long-term engine health.
There are several potential issues that owners of the NX350 might encounter, and using high-quality synthetic lubricants can be an effective preventive measure. First, turbocharger wear and coking can occur if the oil breaks down under extreme heat. Using AMSOIL‘s high-heat-resistant motor oils helps prevent deposit formation on turbocharger bearings, extending their lifespan. Second, low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) can be a concern in small-displacement turbo engines, potentially causing engine knocking. Oils specifically formulated to resist LSPI, such as the AMSOIL Extended-Life or Signature Series, can mitigate this risk. Third, sludge and deposit buildup in the Direct Injection (GDI) system can lead to reduced performance and efficiency; the robust detergent packages in AMSOIL products help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean. Finally, brake fluid degradation is a common issue that can lead to spongy brake pedals; regular replacement with a high-quality synthetic AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 Brake Fluid ensures consistent performance and prevents moisture buildup that can corrode brake lines. By addressing these potential vulnerabilities with the right fluids, NX350 owners can ensure their vehicle remains reliable and performs at its best for years to come.