The 2023 Lexus NX350 represents a significant leap forward for the luxury brand, combining a refined interior with a potent powertrain. However, maintaining this vehicle’s performance and longevity requires more than just following the standard factory service intervals. It demands a rigorous approach to lubrication, specifically targeting the unique needs of its turbocharged engine. By selecting the right synthetic lubricants, owners can ensure maximum protection against wear, improved fuel efficiency, and consistent performance in both freezing winter mornings and scorching summer drives.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers unsurpassed engine protection for up to 25,000 miles, specifically formulated to guard against horsepower loss and wear in the NX350’s T24A-FTS turbocharged engine.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A high-performance alternative providing 37% more cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother for up to 20,000 miles between changes.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Fights sludge and deposits with a formulation trusted by professional engine builders, offering reliable performance that outperforms conventional oils.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Designed specifically for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents to reduce sludge and enhance engine cleaning power.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Provides a filtering efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns, ensuring contaminants are removed effectively to extend engine life.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium media option that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters for excellent filtration.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free formulation that protects the cooling system for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated solution that greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion protection, ideal for long-life applications.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Protects against wear in the automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifts and longevity.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway for the transfer case and differential, containing friction modifiers for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity over a wide temperature range.
The heart of the 2023 Lexus NX350 is its 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, known internally as the T24A-FTS. This engine is designed to deliver strong torque and responsiveness, but turbochargers generate extreme heat that can break down conventional lubricants much faster than in naturally aspirated engines. Using the correct viscosity is critical; AMSOIL recommends 0W-20 as the optimal choice for this specific powertrain. This viscosity level provides the best balance of fuel economy and engine starting in cold weather, ensuring that critical components receive lubrication immediately upon startup.
For the NX350, the engine oil capacity is 5.9 quarts when a filter change is included. Owners should always check the oil level after refilling to ensure the correct amount is present. The drain plug requires a torque specification of 30 ft/lbs, and it is essential to install a new gasket on the plug to prevent leaks. Whether you choose the Signature Series for extended intervals or the OE line for a more budget-conscious approach without sacrificing quality, these synthetic oils contain advanced additive packages that specifically address the challenges posed by direct injection and turbocharging, such as Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI) and carbon buildup.
Filtration is equally important to the life of the engine. The AMSOIL Oil Filter is engineered to handle the high flow rates and contaminants produced by modern engines. It offers a filtering efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns, which is critical for trapping small, wear-causing particles that can damage bearings and camshafts. The filter’s design also allows for lower restriction, keeping engine parts lubricated and reducing wear. For those preferring a well-known brand name, the WIX Oil Filter is also available, offering premium media that rivals or exceeds the quality of OEM filters.
Engine and Fluid Recommendations
While the engine oil is the primary concern, the cooling system and transmission require just as much attention. The NX350 cooling system has a total capacity of approximately 12 quarts, split between the engine (9.1 quarts) and the intercooler (2.9 quarts). Maintaining the coolant is vital for the health of the turbocharger and the overall thermal management of the engine. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a 50/50 pre-mix formulation that is free of phosphates, nitrates, nitrites, and silicates. This unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation is compatible with all other antifreeze colors and protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or five years.
The transmission in the 2023 Lexus NX350 utilizes an 8-speed automatic transmission (UA81F). A total fill of this transmission requires 7.5 quarts. Standard transmission fluids can break down under the heat generated by shifting and the stress of heavy loads. The AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed to withstand these conditions, remaining fluid even in sub-zero temperatures. It also provides reserve protection during heavy use and abuse, such as towing or driving in challenging terrain. Alternatively, the AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid offers excellent protection against wear for those seeking a high-performance option that aligns with standard service expectations.
Dust, road salt, and harsh weather take a toll on the drivetrain’s lubrication points. The NX350 requires gear lube for both the transfer case and the rear differential, both of which utilize a capacity of 1.1 pints. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is specifically formulated for these applications. It contains friction modifiers for limited-slip differentials and helps reduce operating temperatures, extending the life of seals and the equipment itself. The product also controls thermal runaway, a common issue in limited-slip applications, and protects against rust and corrosion. Torque specifications for the fill and drain plugs in the transfer case are 29 ft/lbs, and new gaskets should be installed on both plugs during service.
Braking safety cannot be compromised. The NX350 uses DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to brake fade under heavy use. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid maintains stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, ensuring excellent responsiveness for both ABS and traction control systems. This fluid provides a stable boiling point that conventional fluids may struggle to maintain after repeated heating cycles.
Additional Maintenance and Protection
Beyond the critical drivetrain fluids, there are additional products that help maintain the NX350’s performance. For vehicles that sit for extended periods, such as during the winter or for seasonal storage, the AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup while fighting ethanol corrosion. If the vehicle requires long-term storage, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil can be used to coat internal engine components, preventing rust during inactivity.
To keep the fuel system clean and the engine running at peak efficiency, the AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver is a recommended fuel additive. This 100% synthetic additive restores up to 14% horsepower and cleans GDI fuel injectors back to 100% flow rate after just one tank of fuel treated. It also helps prevent pre-ignition knock and reduces the need for higher-octane fuel. For the upper cylinder and fuel system, the AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor provides essential lubrication to the fuel system and cylinders.
For exterior and interior care, AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease resists thermal and oxidation degradation, making it suitable for chassis components. The AMSOIL Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax Spray allows for a quick, effective wash that repels dust and light dirt while providing UV protection. For cleaning tasks, AMSOIL Brake and Parts Cleaner removes oil and grease from components without residue, while the AMSOIL Glass Cleaner cuts through grease for a streak-free finish.
Model History and Performance
The 2023 Lexus NX350 is a member of the second generation of the NX crossover, a model that has been a cornerstone of Lexus’s success in the compact luxury segment. The vehicle sits on the GA-K platform, a dedicated architecture shared with other Toyota and Lexus models like the RAV4 and the Toyota Highlander. This platform contributes to the NX350’s solid handling, improved safety, and refined ride quality that owners expect from the luxury brand.
One of the defining characteristics of the NX350 is its powertrain. The 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine replaces the previously used naturally aspirated V6 options in certain trims, offering a significant increase in torque and power output while maintaining competitive fuel economy. This engine produces robust acceleration that rivals many six-cylinder vehicles, making the NX350 a highly capable performer on both highways and backroads. The addition of the turbocharger also means the vehicle is more sensitive to lubricant quality, reinforcing the importance of using high-grade synthetic oils like AMSOIL to manage the heat and stress inherent in forced induction.
The NX350 is designed for a wide range of driving styles, from daily commuting in traffic to weekend adventures. Its standard all-wheel-drive capability, available with a rear-biased torque distribution system, enhances traction in slippery conditions without compromising the sporty character of the vehicle. Interior updates for the 2023 model year include a larger infotainment screen and a more premium cabin environment, elevating the driving experience. The vehicle’s market position is strong, appealing to drivers who want a blend of luxury, practicality, and performance without stepping up to a larger midsize SUV. By using AMSOIL’s comprehensive range of lubricants, NX350 owners can ensure their vehicle continues to deliver this level of quality and reliability for years to come.
Proper maintenance is the key to maximizing the lifespan of the NX350. Whether you are extending the intervals between service with AMSOIL Signature Series products or sticking to a more frequent change schedule with OE fluids, the quality of the lubricants you use will directly impact the longevity of your engine, transmission, and differential. Regular inspections of fluid levels and conditions, along with timely replacements using the correct AMSOIL products, will keep your Lexus running smoothly and efficiently. With the right fluids, you can drive with confidence, knowing that every component of your 2023 Lexus NX350 is protected against wear, corrosion, and extreme operating conditions.