The 2009 Lexus RX350 is a sophisticated crossover SUV known for its reliability and smooth driving dynamics, powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine. To keep this luxury vehicle performing at its peak, using the correct lubricants is essential. The engine operates under significant stress, particularly during highway cruising or when towing, and requires a fluid that offers superior protection against wear and deposits. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of the powertrain but also ensures that the vehicle’s sophisticated transmission and cooling systems remain efficient over the years. AMSOIL synthetic lubricants provide a level of protection that exceeds the demanding specifications of this era of Lexus engineering.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The top-tier choice for maximum engine protection, offering up to 25,000 miles of performance in normal service conditions.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent option providing extended protection for up to 20,000 miles while maintaining superior cleaning power to keep the engine running smoothly.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A budget-friendly 100% synthetic alternative that outperforms conventional oils and helps fight sludge and deposits effectively.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for engines with over 75,000 miles, featuring enhanced anti-wear additives and boosted detergents to reduce sludge.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Designed to allow lower restriction while filtering 99% of contaminants at 20 microns, reducing engine wear and offering extended service life.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium media alternative that offers significant improvements over standard OEM-branded filters for superior contamination control.
- WIX Air Filter – Features premium media that improves airflow and filtration efficiency over original equipment manufacturer filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation compatible with all colors, providing protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that requires mixing with water, offering protection up to 150,000 miles in passenger cars and light trucks.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Protects against wear and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts while maintaining fuel efficiency.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for the transfer case and rear differential, providing advanced wear protection and controlling thermal runaway.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Offers robust protection against rust and corrosion, helping to reduce operating temperatures in the final drive components.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – A heavy-duty option for extreme conditions, featuring friction modifiers for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer – Helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months and protects against varnish and gum buildup in the fuel system.
- AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil – A highly effective rust preventive for internal engine components during long-term storage or periods of inactivity.
- WIX Cabin Air Filters – Premium media filtration that improves cabin air quality by trapping contaminants and pollutants.
- AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver – Restores up to 14% horsepower and cleans fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after a single tank of fuel.
- AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease – Resists thermal and oxidation degradation for long-term performance and offers outstanding low-temperature pumpability.
- AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector – Contains special rust and corrosion inhibitor additives to protect against salt, moisture, and chemical corrosion with a long-lasting coating.
- AMSOIL Brake and Parts Cleaner – Quickly removes oil, grease, and brake fluid from components without leaving a residue that could cause squeal.
Engine Oil and Filter Recommendations
The heart of the 2009 Lexus RX350 is the 2GRFE 3.5-liter V6 engine. This powerplant requires a 5W-30 viscosity grade to ensure proper flow during cold starts and adequate film strength under high-temperature operation. The manufacturer specifies a capacity of 6.4 quarts when including the oil filter replacement. Adhering to this capacity is crucial, as underfilling can lead to inadequate lubrication, while overfilling may cause foaming and pressure issues. For owners seeking the ultimate level of protection, AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 delivers a significant boost in engine protection, offering superior control against horsepower loss and wear compared to conventional oils. It is designed to maintain its integrity for up to 25,000 miles or one year in normal service, allowing drivers to extend their maintenance intervals without sacrificing performance.
For those who prefer a balanced approach between premium performance and cost-effectiveness, the AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 offers up to 20,000 miles of protection. This formulation includes enhanced cleaning power to help keep the engine interior free of deposits, which is particularly beneficial for the V6 engine’s complex valvetrain. If you are looking for a fluid that closely mimics the OEM specification while still providing the benefits of 100% synthetic technology, the AMSOIL OE 5W-30 is an excellent choice. It is designed to fight sludge and deposits effectively, ensuring that the engine remains clean and efficient throughout its service life.
Once the engine has surpassed 75,000 miles, the AMSOIL 5W-30 High-Mileage Motor Oil becomes the ideal recommendation. This formula utilizes a unique chemistry with boosted detergents and dispersants to handle the increased wear typical of older engines. It helps reduce sludge buildup and minimizes oil consumption, extending the life of the engine components. Regardless of the specific oil grade chosen, pairing it with a high-quality filter is non-negotiable. The AMSOIL Oil Filter EA15K02 provides filtering efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns, allowing for lower restriction and keeping engine parts well-lubricated. For those who prefer the WIX brand, the WIX Oil Filter 57047 offers premium media with improvements over standard OEM filters.
Transmission and Differential Fluids
Keeping the automatic transmission and final drive components lubricated is critical for the smooth operation of the Lexus RX350. The transmission, specifically the U151E or U151F model, requires an initial fill of 3.7 quarts. While the factory fill is sufficient for initial operation, swapping to a high-performance synthetic fluid can drastically improve shift quality and durability. The AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures. It remains fluid in sub-zero conditions, ensuring reliable shifting regardless of the weather. This fluid also provides reserve protection during heavy use, making it a top choice for those who push their vehicle’s limits.
For owners seeking an economical yet high-performing option, the AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid provides excellent protection against wear while promoting smooth, shudder-free shifts. This formulation resists harmful sludge and offers excellent cold-weather performance, guarding against leaks and ensuring long-term reliability. When it comes to the differential and transfer case, the 2009 RX350 utilizes GL-5 rated gear lubricants. The transfer case requires 1.9 pints, and the rear differential also requires 1.9 pints. For these demanding applications, the AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® series offers advanced protection. The 80W-90 variant contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications and helps control thermal runaway, which is vital for preventing seal failures. The 75W-90 and 75W-110 variants offer even better flow in extreme cold and superior load-carrying capacity, respectively. These synthetic gear lubes help reduce operating temperatures and extend the life of the seals and gears.
Coolant, Brake Fluid, and Seasonal Care
The cooling system in the 2009 Lexus RX350 holds 8.9 quarts of coolant. Maintaining the correct mixture is essential to prevent overheating and corrosion. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a ready-to-use 50/50 ethylene glycol formulation that exceeds OEM requirements. It protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses and is compatible with all other antifreeze colors. For those who prefer a concentrated option to mix themselves, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years. This concentrated formula offers exceptional corrosion and erosion protection without the use of silicates, borates, or nitrates, ensuring a clean and safe cooling environment for the engine.
Brake fluid maintenance is often overlooked but is vital for safety. The 2009 Lexus RX350 requires DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid offers excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction-control systems. Its stable viscosity over a wide temperature range ensures consistent braking performance in both freezing cold and hot summer conditions. For owners planning to store the vehicle for extended periods, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can be added to the fuel tank to keep the gasoline fresh for up to 12 months. Additionally, using AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil before storage creates a protective coating on internal components, preventing rust during inactivity. These preventative measures ensure that the vehicle starts and runs smoothly when it is time to return to the road.
Additional Maintenance and Care Products
Beyond the essential lubricants, several other products can enhance the performance and longevity of the 2009 Lexus RX350. The AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver is a powerful fuel additive that restores up to 14% horsepower and cleans fuel injectors to 100% flow rate. It is compatible with capless fuel systems and helps prevent carbon buildup, which is common in direct injection engines. For those who prefer cleaning the fuel system regularly, the AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor provides dual protection by lubricating the fuel system and upper cylinders. When it comes to general maintenance, the AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease is ideal for chassis fittings and other lubrication points. It resists thermal degradation and offers outstanding low-temperature pumpability, ensuring smooth operation in all seasons.
To protect the vehicle’s exterior and undercarriage, the AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector provides a long-lasting, wax-like coating that guards against salt, moisture, and chemical corrosion. This is particularly useful for vehicles driven in areas with harsh winters or coastal salt spray. For cleaning needs, the AMSOIL Brake and Parts Cleaner quickly removes contaminants without leaving residue, ensuring optimal performance of braking components. The AMSOIL Engine Degreaser is a professional-strength formula that tackles tough grease and grime on engine surfaces. For cosmetic care, the AMSOIL Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax Spray allows for a safe cleaning process that repels dust and protects against UV rays. Finally, the AMSOIL High-Foam Car Shampoo is a bucket-wash capable formula that is hard on dirt but gentle on the vehicle’s coating, providing a deep clean without damaging the finish.
About the Vehicle
The 2009 Lexus RX350 represents a significant milestone in the history of the RX series, marking a shift towards a more powerful and refined driving experience. Part of the second generation of the RX, introduced in 2007, the 2009 model year continued the legacy of this luxury crossover, which pioneered the segment of combining SUV versatility with sedan-like comfort. The RX350 is powered by the 2GR-FE engine, a 3.5-liter V6 that produces roughly 270 horsepower. This powerplant replaced the previous V6 engine, offering a significant boost in performance while maintaining excellent fuel economy and reliability, a hallmark of the Lexus brand.
Driven by a sophisticated five-speed automatic transmission, the RX350 delivers smooth and responsive acceleration. The vehicle is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, the latter of which utilizes a full-time four-wheel drive system that can vary power distribution to the front or rear wheels as needed. This setup makes the RX350 a capable vehicle for various driving conditions, from city commuting to light off-road adventures. The interior of the 2009 RX350 is known for its high-quality materials, quiet cabin, and spacious seating, which has made it a favorite among families and professionals alike. With a reputation for longevity and low maintenance costs, the 2009 RX350 remains a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market, offering a perfect blend of luxury, utility, and reliability.
Owners of the 2009 RX350 often praise its balanced handling and comfortable ride, which makes it a favorite for long-distance travel. The vehicle’s design prioritizes driver confidence, with a well-tuned suspension that absorbs road imperfections effectively. Additionally, the RX350’s interior features a user-friendly dashboard layout and a range of convenience features that were considered advanced for its time, including available leather-trimmed seats and a premium audio system. As the vehicle ages, regular maintenance with high-quality synthetic fluids becomes even more critical to preserving its performance and value. By adhering to the recommended fluid specifications and using premium lubricants, owners can ensure that their 2009 Lexus RX350 continues to provide a premium driving experience for years to come.