The 2018 Lexus RX350 is a sophisticated luxury crossover equipped with the robust 3.5-liter 2GR-FKS V6 engine. Maintaining this vehicle requires precise attention to its lubrication needs to ensure optimal performance, fuel economy, and longevity. While the factory specifications recommend specific viscosities, high-quality synthetic alternatives can offer superior protection against wear, extreme temperatures, and the demands of modern driving. Whether you are navigating city traffic or towing a trailer, using the correct fluids is essential for keeping your engine and transmission systems running smoothly.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
Protect your 2018 Lexus RX350 with these premium lubricants and filters specifically designed to meet or exceed the rigorous standards of this vehicle.
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers the highest level of protection with 75% more defense against horsepower loss and wear, ideal for drivers seeking up to 25,000 miles between changes.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides 37% more cleaning power and 20,000 miles of protection, making it an excellent choice for extended service intervals.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective synthetic option that effectively fights sludge and deposits while providing 10,000 miles of protection.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated with enhanced additives for engines exceeding 75,000 miles to reduce sludge and consumption.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers 99% filtering efficiency at 20 microns to trap contaminants and keep engine parts lubricated.
- WIX Oil Filter – A high-quality alternative featuring premium media for improved filtration over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters.
- WIX Air Filter – Provides reliable air filtration to ensure clean airflow reaches your 3.5L V6 engine for better performance.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – An ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix offering protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years with OAT technology.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula requiring mixing, delivering superior corrosion protection and extending service life up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand heavy towing and high temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides excellent protection against wear for automatic transmissions in this vehicle.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – The recommended lubricant for transfer cases and rear differentials, offering advanced wear protection and rust inhibition.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS responsiveness and stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
The 2018 Lexus RX350 is powered by the 2GR-FKS engine, a naturally aspirated V6 known for its balance of power and efficiency. This engine requires 5.8 quarts of 0W-20 viscosity motor oil when the AMSOIL Oil Filter is replaced. After refilling, it is critical to check the oil level to ensure proper coverage. The torque specification for the oil drain plug is 30 ft/lbs, and a new washer should always be installed on the drain bolt. For those driving in colder climates, the 0W-20 grade is the best choice for fuel economy and cold-start performance, though it must be replaced at the next scheduled change.
When servicing the transmission, the capacity varies slightly depending on whether the vehicle is equipped with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) or front-wheel-drive (FWD) system. The 8-speed AWD U881E transmission requires a total fill of 7.2 quarts, while the initial fill is 3.2 quarts. Similarly, the FWD U881F transmission also requires 7.2 quarts for a complete fill. Using the AMSOIL Signature Series or OE Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid helps prevent the sludge and wear that can lead to costly repairs, especially under heavy loads or in challenging terrain. These fluids remain fluid in sub-zero temperatures and provide reserve protection during heavy use.
Additional Fluids and Maintenance
Beyond the engine and transmission, other critical systems in the Lexus RX350 benefit from high-performance lubricants. The transfer case requires 1.7 pints of lubricant, while the rear differential for AWD models needs 1.1 pints. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the ideal choice for these applications, offering thermal runaway control and protection against rust and corrosion. For braking systems, AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is recommended, as it provides superior stability and responsiveness compared to standard fluids. The cooling system capacity varies, with the total fill requiring between 9.5 and 10.5 quarts, making AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant a reliable option for long-term corrosion protection and heat dissipation.
Seasonal maintenance is also important for owners who store their vehicles. AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish and gum buildup that can clog injectors. For engines that sit for long periods, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil can be used to coat internal components and prevent rust during storage. Additionally, the use of AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver can help restore horsepower and clean GDI fuel injectors, ensuring your vehicle performs at its peak.
Vehicle Background
About the Vehicle: A Legacy of Comfort and Reliability
The 2018 Lexus RX350 represents the continuation of a line that has redefined the luxury crossover segment. Launched in the early 2000s, the RX series was one of the first vehicles to blend the rugged utility of a truck with the refined comfort and handling of a sedan. By 2018, the RX350 had established itself as a market leader, particularly in North America, where it became synonymous with reliable, high-end family transportation. The 2018 model year features a sleek, modern design that continues to age well, boasting a spacious interior and a commanding road presence.
At the heart of this vehicle is the 3.5-liter V6 engine, code-named the 2GR-FKS. This engine is a marvel of Toyota-Lexus engineering, delivering a smooth and powerful driving experience with around 295 horsepower. It is paired with a responsive 8-speed automatic transmission that shifts seamlessly, whether you are merging onto a highway or navigating through tight city streets. The powertrain is designed for both comfort and capability, offering enough torque for light towing while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency for daily commutes. The RX350 is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, giving owners the flexibility to choose based on their regional weather and driving habits.
Owners of the 2018 Lexus RX350 often cite the vehicle’s quiet cabin, advanced technology features, and top-tier build quality as reasons for their satisfaction. However, like any complex machine, this crossover can experience specific issues over time that proper lubrication can help mitigate. One common concern for V6 engines of this era is oil consumption, which can sometimes occur due to engine wear or carbon buildup on piston rings. Switching to a high-mileage synthetic oil like AMSOIL, with its enhanced anti-wear additives and superior film strength, can help minimize consumption and reduce the need for frequent top-offs.
Another issue that can affect the RX350 over the years is the buildup of carbon deposits in the engine, particularly in the intake valves of Direct Injection (GDI) engines. While the 2GR-FKS is naturally aspirated, it can still benefit from the cleaning properties of high-performance oils and fuel additives. Regular use of AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver can help restore fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, ensuring that the engine burns fuel efficiently and maintains its rated horsepower. Furthermore, the transfer case in AWD models can sometimes suffer from fluid breakdown if left in service for extended periods, leading to increased wear and potential noise during turns. Using a dedicated synthetic gear lube like SEVERE GEAR can protect these components, extend the service interval, and maintain the smooth operation of the all-wheel-drive system.
Additionally, the brake system on the RX350 is engineered for high performance, but standard DOT 3 fluids can absorb moisture over time, leading to a spongy pedal feel and reduced braking efficiency. Upgrading to a synthetic brake fluid ensures that the braking system remains responsive and free from corrosion, providing peace of mind for drivers who value safety. Finally, the cooling system is critical for a vehicle with a high-output engine, and the use of high-quality antifreeze ensures that the engine operates at the correct temperature, preventing overheating and corrosion within the radiator and engine block. By addressing these potential areas of wear with premium lubricants, RX350 owners can enjoy years of reliable, worry-free driving.
In conclusion, the 2018 Lexus RX350 is a vehicle that rewards diligent maintenance. By selecting the right AMSOIL products, from 0W-20 synthetic motor oils to specialized gear lubes and brake fluids, you ensure that your Lexus continues to perform like new, regardless of the mileage. Whether you are a long-distance commuter, a weekend adventurer, or simply a family driver, the protection offered by AMSOIL synthetic lubricants is the best investment you can make for your vehicle’s future.