Keeping your 2022 Lexus RX350L running at its absolute best requires more than just filling up the tank. The vehicle’s 3.5L V-6 engine and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system demand precise lubrication to handle the demands of daily commuting, family hauling, and long-distance travel. Using the wrong fluids can lead to increased wear, reduced fuel economy, and costly repairs down the road. This guide details the essential lubricants and maintenance fluids specifically recommended for this model to ensure maximum performance and longevity.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides unsurpassed engine protection for up to 25,000 miles, fighting horsepower loss and wear better than conventional oils.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers 20,000 miles of protection with enhanced cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother for a longer time.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers reliable protection that outperforms conventional oils while meeting the viscosity requirements for optimal fuel economy.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Unique chemistry for engines over 75,000 miles that reduces sludge and boosts cleaning power.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Features high-efficiency filtration that captures contaminants as small as 20 microns to reduce engine wear.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium media alternative that offers improvements over standard OEM-branded filters for reliable engine protection.
- WIX Air Filter – Premium media offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-branded filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mixed solution that protects the cooling system for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – Concentrated protection that surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Offers a cost-effective OE specification option for transmission protection.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced protection for the transfer case and rear differential, controlling thermal runaway and protecting against rust.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS responsiveness and a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range for safe stopping power.
The engine is the heart of your 2022 RX350L, and the 3.5-liter V-6 (engine code 2GR-FKS) is a robust powerplant known for its smooth power delivery and durability. However, even the best engines suffer when subjected to the thermal stress and friction of modern driving. The correct motor oil is essential not just for lubrication, but for cleaning away deposits and maintaining proper viscosity in extreme temperatures. For this specific engine, a 0W-20 viscosity is specified to ensure optimal fuel economy and quick oil circulation during cold starts. The capacity for a standard oil change, including the filter, is 5.7 quarts, while a total refill with filter reaches 5.8 quarts. Selecting a high-quality synthetic oil like the AMSOIL Signature Series allows you to extend oil change intervals significantly, reducing both maintenance time and environmental impact.
Transmission and Drivetrain Maintenance
Powering the RX350L is an 8-speed automatic transmission that requires fluid capable of handling high heat and precise shifting. The vehicle’s AWD system adds complexity, utilizing a transfer case that also needs specialized lubrication. The initial fill for the automatic transmission is 3.2 quarts, but a total fill for the 8-speed AWD setup requires 7.2 quarts. Using a fluid designed for extreme durability helps prevent the clunking, shifting delays, and heat-related wear common in stop-and-go traffic. For the transfer case and rear differential, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 Synthetic Gear Lube is the ideal choice. It contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications and resists the shear forces that can break down conventional gear oils, ensuring the AWD system engages smoothly when road traction changes.
Cooling and Brake System Essentials
Maintaining the correct temperature is vital for the longevity of the RX350L’s engine and hybrid components, if equipped. The cooling system capacity is substantial at 13.1 quarts. Using a high-quality antifreeze like the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant ensures corrosion protection for all metals and rubber hoses within the system. It is phosphate-free and compatible with the cooling systems of most Asian vehicles. Safety is equally critical, and the brake fluid must handle high heat generated during braking. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid offers a higher boiling point than standard fluid, preventing vapor lock and ensuring consistent pedal feel, even after repeated hard stops. This stability is crucial for the electronic stability control and traction systems that rely on precise hydraulic pressure.
Additional Protection for Your Vehicle
For drivers who want to maximize the efficiency of their Lexus, fuel additives can play a surprising role. The AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver is designed to restore up to 14% horsepower and clean fuel injectors, which can be especially beneficial for Direct Injection (GDI) engines prone to carbon buildup. Regular maintenance of the cooling system and transmission fluid, combined with the use of these specialized lubricants, creates a comprehensive protection strategy. Whether you are towing a trailer, navigating icy roads, or simply driving on long highway commutes, the right fluids make a measurable difference in how your vehicle performs.
About the Vehicle: 2022 Lexus RX350L
The 2022 Lexus RX350L represents a significant step in the evolution of the luxury crossover segment. As a three-row version of the popular RX350, the “L” designation stands for “Long,” offering increased third-row passenger space compared to the standard two-row model. This vehicle is built on the Toyota K platform, which is also shared with other models like the Highlander and the Lexus NX, providing a solid foundation for reliability and handling. The RX350L is powered by the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V-6 engine, known for its balance of power and fuel efficiency. While not the most powerful engine in the luxury SUV class, it delivers smooth, linear acceleration that characterizes the Lexus brand’s focus on comfort over raw performance.
Owners of the RX350L often choose this vehicle for its versatility. It serves as a premium family hauler, offering the comfort of a luxury sedan with the utility of a larger SUV. The cabin is renowned for its quietness, excellent build quality, and advanced technology features. The third row, while best suited for smaller passengers or cargo, allows for genuine seven-passenger seating, making it a practical choice for growing families or those who frequently carpool. In terms of market position, the RX350L competes directly with the Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and the larger Cadillac XT6. It appeals to buyers who prioritize a smooth ride and low cost of ownership over aggressive styling or high-horsepower engines.
Despite its reputation for reliability, the RX350L is not without potential issues that can arise over time. One common concern for the 2GR-FKS engine is carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly due to the direct injection design which does not have fuel washing over the valves to clean them. Regular use of a quality fuel injector cleaner like AMSOIL P.i. can help mitigate this buildup. Another area of attention is the transmission, where some owners report delayed shifting or clunking during low-speed maneuvers. Maintaining fresh AMSOIL Signature Series Automatic Transmission Fluid can help lubricate the valve body and clutch packs, smoothing out these shifts. Additionally, the rear differential and transfer case in AWD models can develop noises if the AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR degrades, leading to premature wear in the gears. Finally, cooling system leaks can develop around the thermostat housing or water pump as the vehicle ages; using a high-quality AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant can help protect these components from corrosion and erosion, extending their service life.
Ultimately, the 2022 RX350L is a vehicle designed for those who value comfort, reliability, and practicality. With the correct maintenance regimen, including the specific lubricants outlined above, owners can enjoy a vehicle that remains smooth, quiet, and capable for many miles to come. By paying attention to these fluid requirements, you are investing in the long-term health of your Lexus, ensuring it continues to meet the high standards of quality and performance that the brand is known for.