Keeping your 2018 Lexus NX300 running at peak performance starts with understanding the specific lubrication needs of its turbocharged 2.0L engine. This vehicle requires precise fluid specifications to handle the stress of its 8AR-FTS engine, ensuring optimal fuel economy, reduced wear, and long-lasting protection against the harsh conditions of daily driving.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear, offering up to 25,000 miles of service for this turbocharged engine.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers 37% more cleaning power and up to 20,000 miles of protection between changes.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A trusted choice that fights sludge and deposits, designed to outperform conventional oils with factory-approved quality.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Ensures 99% filtering efficiency at 20 microns to remove contaminants and extends service life to match synthetic oil intervals.
- WIX Oil Filter – Offers premium media that improves upon original equipment manufacturer specifications for reliable filtration.
- 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 provides reliable performance for the U661E and U661F transmissions.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid formulation that protects cooling system metals and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection for transfer cases and differentials, controlling thermal runaway and reducing operating temperatures.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range.
- WIX Air Filter – Features premium media for improved airflow and filtration, offering improvements over OEM-branded filters.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – Restores fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, improves fuel economy, and reduces the need for higher-octane fuel.
Selecting the right oil viscosity is critical for the 2018 Lexus NX300’s 2.0L turbocharged engine. The recommended grade is 0W-20, which is the ideal choice for achieving excellent fuel economy and ensuring easy cold-start performance. This viscosity must be maintained at every oil change to protect the engine’s internal components and the turbocharger system effectively. The total oil capacity for a complete change, including the oil filter, is 5.2 quarts. After refilling, it is essential to check the oil level to ensure proper lubrication. When draining the old oil, the drain plug should be torqued to 30 ft/lbs, and a new washer should always be installed on the drain bolt to prevent leaks.
For vehicle owners seeking the absolute pinnacle of protection, AMSOIL Signature Series Motor Oil stands out as the premier choice. It offers up to 25,000 miles of service, significantly extending the time between maintenance intervals. This synthetic oil contains 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear compared to conventional standards. It is specifically formulated to protect turbochargers, which are vital for the NX300’s performance. The extended service interval capability allows drivers to reduce their environmental footprint and maintenance costs while keeping the engine running smoothly.
Alternatively, the AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 provides a robust option for those who want to stretch their oil change intervals to 20,000 miles. This formulation includes enhanced cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoother for longer and protects against Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI), a common issue in modern direct-injection engines. For drivers who prefer a more traditional service schedule or are looking for a cost-effective solution that still offers 100% synthetic benefits, the AMSOIL OE Motor Oil is an excellent choice. It fights sludge and deposits effectively, providing reliable protection that meets OEM requirements without the premium price point.
Engines with over 75,000 miles on the odometer benefit from AMSOIL’s High-Mileage 0W-20 Motor Oil. This unique chemistry includes boosted detergent and dispersant packages that help clean the engine internally. It contains enhanced anti-wear additives and has been proven to reduce sludge by 67%. This fluid is designed to extend the life of older engines by improving overall performance and reliability.
The cooling system in the NX300 requires specific attention due to the intercooler and engine coolant capacity. The engine coolant capacity is 8.2 quarts, while the intercooler requires an additional 3.1 quarts. Using a high-quality antifreeze is crucial for preventing corrosion and maintaining optimal operating temperatures. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is an ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses. It is phosphate-, nitrate-, nitrite-, silicate-, borate-, and amine-free, making it compatible with all other coolant colors and safe for long-term use up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
For the automatic transmission, which uses either the U661E or U661F 6-speed gearbox, fluid changes are vital for longevity. A total fill requires 7.2 quarts, while an initial fill is 3 quarts. AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid offers superior protection against wear, sludge, and high temperatures, remaining fluid even in sub-zero conditions. The OE Fuel-Efficient version provides a reliable alternative that protects against wear and is designed to meet the demands of the transmission’s operating environment.
Finally, the drivetrain components in the All-Wheel Drive version of the NX300 require high-quality gear lubrication. The transfer case and rear differential both use specific capacities of gear lube, with the transfer case requiring 1.1 pints and the rear differential also requiring 1.1 pints. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the recommended fluid. It contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications, controls thermal runaway, and protects against rust and corrosion, ensuring the drivetrain operates quietly and efficiently. For the braking system, AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid ensures responsive braking performance and stability under various conditions.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Lexus NX300 represents a significant step up in the premium compact crossover segment. Built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, this model shares its foundation with the Toyota RAV4 and Camry but is distinguished by Lexus’s commitment to luxury, refinement, and durability. The NX300 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, known as the 8AR-FTS, which delivers a balance of spirited acceleration and fuel efficiency. This engine produces approximately 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for both city commuting and highway passing. The vehicle is available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, with the latter utilizing a torque-vectoring system to enhance handling and stability on slippery roads.
Owners of the 2018 NX300 often appreciate the vehicle’s sophisticated interior, which features high-quality materials, a comfortable ride quality, and advanced technology features like the Mark Levinson audio system. The exterior design is sleek and aerodynamic, contributing to its respectable fuel economy ratings for its class. As a compact luxury SUV, the NX300 targets professionals and families who value reliability and brand prestige without the bulk of a larger vehicle. It sits between the subcompact UX and the midsize RX in Lexus’s lineup, filling a unique niche for drivers who want a smaller footprint but premium amenities.
While the 2018 Lexus NX300 is a robust vehicle, there are known issues that owners should be aware of. One common problem is the potential for carbon buildup on the intake valves, a typical characteristic of direct injection engines, which can affect performance and fuel economy over time. Regular use of a high-quality fuel injector cleaner like AMSOIL P.i. can help mitigate this issue by keeping the fuel system clean. Another area of concern for some owners is the infotainment system’s potential for lag or software glitches; while this is electronic, the overall driving experience can be improved by ensuring the engine is running at its best. Some owners have reported issues with the start-stop system not engaging properly or causing slight vibrations, which can be exacerbated by an engine not running optimally due to old fluids or deposits.
A further issue that can affect the NX300’s longevity is the wear on the turbocharger bearings if the vehicle is frequently driven with short trips or without proper warm-up times. Turbocharged engines are sensitive to oil quality and service intervals. Using a high-synthetic oil like AMSOIL Signature Series can significantly reduce carbon deposits in the turbocharger and protect the bearing surfaces from heat-related degradation. Additionally, some owners have noted minor suspension clunks or squeaks over time, which can sometimes be traced to suspension bushings or chassis components that could benefit from a general application of a high-quality synthetic grease or protector. By addressing these common maintenance areas with superior lubricants, owners can ensure their 2018 Lexus NX300 remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.
Maintenance of the 2018 Lexus NX300 is straightforward when using the correct products. Regular oil changes every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, or up to 25,000 miles with synthetic oil, are key to maintaining the engine’s health. Changing the transmission fluid and filter, as well as checking the coolant and gear lubricants, ensures that all moving parts are properly lubricated. The NX300 is designed to be a reliable companion, and with the right care, it can deliver the luxury and performance Lexus owners expect. Whether you are driving through the city or on a long road trip, having the right fluids in your vehicle makes a noticeable difference in how it drives.
For those who want to get the most out of their vehicle, using AMSOIL products provides a level of protection that exceeds factory specifications. From the engine oil to the brake fluid, each component plays a role in the overall performance and safety of the NX300. By selecting the recommended fluids, drivers can enjoy a smoother ride, better fuel economy, and greater peace of mind knowing their vehicle is protected against wear and tear. The combination of high-quality synthetic lubricants and proper maintenance intervals will keep the 2018 Lexus NX300 running smoothly for a long time.