The 2021 Lexus LX570 is a robust full-size luxury SUV powered by the legendary 5.7-liter 3UR-FE V8 engine. This powerhouse delivers exceptional towing capability and off-road performance, but it demands the highest quality lubricants to maintain its durability and longevity. Using the correct fluids is critical for managing the heat generated by this large displacement engine, preventing sludge buildup in high-mileage vehicles, and ensuring smooth operation of the 8-speed automatic transmission. Proper maintenance with top-tier synthetic lubricants allows the LX570 to meet its rigorous engineering standards, reducing wear on critical components and extending the service intervals between oil changes.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers unmatched engine protection for up to 25,000 miles with superior wear resistance.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides extended performance and cleaning power for up to 20,000 miles.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers OEM-level protection to fight sludge and deposits efficiently.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for engines with over 75,000 miles to reduce oil consumption and sludge.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Features high-efficiency media to capture contaminants and ensure proper lubrication for up to 25,000 miles.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium aftermarket option offering superior filtration quality compared to standard OEM filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed 50/50 solution designed to protect cooling system metals and components.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A non-toxic, concentrated coolant providing up to 150,000 miles of protection.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Engineered to withstand heavy towing and elevated transmission temperatures.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Protects against wear and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection for front and rear differentials, controlling thermal runaway and wear.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides stable viscosity and excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Ideal for power steering applications and versatile fluid needs.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Resists sludge and offers excellent cold-weather performance for hydraulic systems.
The engine in your 2021 Lexus LX570 requires 8.5 quarts of oil when including the filter change. For optimal performance, 0W-20 viscosity is the best choice for this vehicle. This grade offers excellent fuel economy and ensures reliable starting in cold weather, though it must be replaced at the recommended intervals. Always ensure the oil level is checked after the refill. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 30 ft/lbs, and a new washer must be installed on the drain bolt to prevent leaks. The 3UR-FE V8 is a heavy-duty engine that benefits significantly from the extended drain intervals possible with AMSOIL synthetic motor oils, allowing you to reduce maintenance frequency while increasing engine life.
Transmission and Drivetrain Lubrication
The 8-speed automatic transmission is a critical component of the LX570’s performance, especially when towing or navigating challenging terrain. The recommended fluid is an AE80F….WS type, with a total fill capacity of 10.7 quarts and an initial fill capacity of 2.9 quarts. Using a synthetic automatic transmission fluid like the AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid or OE Fuel-Efficient variety helps manage the extreme heat and friction generated during heavy loads. These fluids remain fluid in sub-zero temperatures and provide reserve protection during abuse, ensuring the transmission shifts smoothly and resists sludge buildup. Proper transmission fluid selection is essential for preventing costly internal wear and extending the life of this complex gearbox.
For the front and rear differentials, the LX570 requires GL-5 lubricant. The front differential holds approximately 4 pints, while the rear differential requires 8.9 pints. Both units specify Toyota Genuine Gear Oil LT as an equivalent, but AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube offers superior protection. This synthetic gear lube controls thermal runaway, which is a common issue in heavy-duty differentials, and contains friction modifiers beneficial for limited-slip applications. By using a high-quality synthetic gear lubricant, you protect against rust, corrosion, and wear, while also helping to reduce operating temperatures and extending the life of the seals and equipment.
Other Essential Fluids and Maintenance
Beyond the engine and drivetrain, the cooling system and braking systems require attention to maintain safety and efficiency. The cooling system holds a capacity of 17.1 quarts. For this, AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant provides a ready-to-use 50/50 ethylene glycol solution that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles. Alternatively, the concentrated AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers non-toxic protection that can last up to 150,000 miles in passenger vehicles or significantly longer in heavy-duty applications, greatly surpassing corrosion standards without harmful phosphates or nitrates.
The brake system relies on hydraulic brake fluid meeting DOT 3 specifications. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is recommended to provide excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems. It maintains stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, preventing the spongy brake feel that can occur with conventional fluids as they absorb moisture. Additionally, the power steering system utilizes a DEXRON-III Automatic Transmission Fluid equivalent. AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid or OE Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluids are suitable for this application, ensuring smooth operation and resistance to sludge in the steering pump.
About the Vehicle
The 2021 Lexus LX570 stands as one of the most capable and luxurious full-size SUVs available in the global market. Rooted in the Toyota Land Cruiser platform, this vehicle combines rugged off-road durability with the refined comfort and prestige associated with the Lexus brand. It is powered by the naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8 engine (3UR-FE), a proven powerplant known for its ability to generate substantial torque and pull heavy loads with ease. This engine layout has been a staple for the LX series, providing the low-end power necessary for climbing steep inclines or towing trailers without the reliance on forced induction.
Owners of the LX570 value it for its exceptional build quality and off-road prowess. The vehicle features a robust ladder-frame chassis and a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system that can disconnect the front driveshaft for improved fuel economy on paved roads while engaging low-range gearing for serious terrain. The suspension is tuned to balance a smooth ride for highway cruising with the compliance needed for articulation over rocks and uneven ground. It is a vehicle designed for those who require a “do everything” capability, from city driving to remote expeditions, often serving as a premium choice for overland enthusiasts and fleet operators alike.
Despite its reliability, the 5.7L engine in the LX570 can face specific challenges over time, particularly if subjected to severe driving conditions such as frequent towing or idling. One common issue is the potential for carbon buildup on fuel injectors and intake valves, which can lead to reduced fuel economy and rough idling. Using AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive can help restore up to 14% of horsepower and clean these injectors back to 100% flow rate, mitigating pre-ignition knock and maintaining peak performance.
Another potential concern for high-mileage LX570s is oil consumption and the formation of sludge, which can restrict oil flow and cause premature wear on critical engine components like the turbochargers (if equipped with aftermarket mods) or camshafts. The high-temperature environment under the hood can degrade conventional oils quickly. AMSOIL’s high-mileage formulations and extended-life synthetic oils are specifically designed to reduce sludge formation and control oil consumption, keeping the internal engine passages clean and the oil film strong even after thousands of miles. Additionally, the 8-speed automatic transmission can sometimes experience shudder or harsh shifts if the fluid degrades or becomes contaminated. Regular fluid changes with a synthetic transmission fluid help prevent this shudder and ensure the hydraulic pressure remains stable for crisp shifting.
Finally, the front and rear differentials in the LX570 are subject to significant stress during off-road use. Thermal runaway, where the fluid overheats and breaks down, is a known risk in heavy towing scenarios. This can lead to premature gear wear and seal failure. The introduction of AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube addresses this by actively controlling thermal runaway and protecting against extreme pressure, ensuring the limited-slip differentials operate quietly and efficiently. By addressing these specific vulnerabilities with premium synthetic lubricants, owners can extend the service life of their vehicle and maintain its resale value for years to come.