Steps to Reset the Lexus RX350 Maintenance Required Light
Turn the ignition or engine on and press the TRIP button until ODO is displayed on the dashboard.
Turn the engine and ignition off.
Hold down the TRIP button and turn the key to the second position (ignition On).
The dashboard display will show four dashes counting down. Hold the TRIP button until all the dashes are done blinking.
Turn the Ignition OFF.
The Lexus RX350 Service Required reminder should only be reset after changing the oil and oil filter on the car.
Why It's Important to Reset the Lexus RX350 Maintenance Light
Resetting the maintenance light in your Lexus RX350 is important because it helps you keep track of the condition of the oil in the engine and when you’re due for an oil change. We also recommend maintaining a detailed log of every oil change and service completed on your Lexus RX350. This practice ensures excellent maintenance of your Lexus RX350 and serves as proof of consistent upkeep, benefiting you should you decide to sell the car later.
Lexus RX350 Oil Type and Quantity
The 2008-2015 Lexus RX350 3.5L 6 cylinder engine requires 6.4 Quarts of 5W-30 conventional or synthetic oil. (Regarding conventional or synthetic oil, whatever oil you have been using, you should continue to use)
How Often Should You Change the Oil on Your Lexus RX350?
It is advisable to change the oil in your Lexus RX350 every 3,000 miles. Although certain specialists, service centers, and dealers might suggest extending the interval between oil changes, adhering to the 3,000-mile mark is essential. Regularly maintaining this schedule is crucial for maintaining your Lexus RX350’s engine performance and avoiding various potential issues.
What to Do If the Service Reset Procedure Does Not Work?
Should you face difficulties in resetting the maintenance light on your Lexus RX350, try the process again. Turn off the ignition and the engine completely, then initiate the reset sequence anew. Ensure that the hood and all doors are securely closed before commencing the procedure. Also, make sure the odometer is not on trip a or trip b but on ODO.
Why is the Maintenance Required Light Still On After An Oil Change?
Once you’ve finished an oil change in your Lexus RX350, don’t forget to reset the maintenance light otherwise it will stay on. Merely replacing the oil and filter doesn’t automatically deactivate the maintenance light. If the maintenance required reminder on the Lexus is still on after the oil change, this typically indicates that the person who conducted the oil change forgot to complete the reset process.
General Lexus RX350 Maintenance Tips
Check Tire Pressure and Tire Tread
To find the suggested tire pressure for your Lexus RX350, check the white or yellow label on the door panel, which is visible when you open the driver’s side door. Ensure to inflate the tires when they’re cold to avoid overinflation. This means either waiting three hours after the vehicle was last used or inflating the tires before you start driving. To assess the wear on the treads of each tire, you can use the penny test or a tread depth gauge.
Rotate Your Tires
We recommend rotating the Lexus RX350 tires every other oil change, (if you are changing your oil at our recommended 3,000 mile interval) or every 6,000 miles.
Check the Coolant Level
Inspect the coolant level to confirm it falls within the appropriate range in the coolant reservoir, notably above the minimum and beneath the maximum mark. Using a flashlight can help improve visibility inside the coolant bottle. Given that the coolant system is sealed, a notably reduced coolant level may indicate a leak. Perform a pressure test on the system to identify any potential leaks.
Check the Brake Pads and Rotors
Check the thickness of the brake pads on both the front and rear brakes of your Lexus RX350 to ensure there is enough pad material remaining. Use a brake pad gauge to measure the thickness accurately. Also, examine the rotors for signs of rust or irregularities. When your Lexus RX350 is raised on a jack or lift, manually turn each wheel (with the parking brake off) to make sure they rotate freely. Difficulty in wheel rotation could suggest problems with the brake caliper or stuck slider pins in the caliper.
Check Brake Fluid Reservoir
Keeping the brake fluid reservoir full is crucial. A noticeably low brake fluid level in the Lexus RX350 typically points to a leak in the system. Check the brake calipers and lines for any signs of leakage.
Check Washer Fluid Level
Top up your washer fluid reservoir. In the winter months, opt for a washer fluid that contains antifreeze to prevent it from freezing inside the container.
Check the Engine and Cabin Air Filters
Unlock the air filter compartment of your Lexus RX350 and remove the air filter. If it appears dirty, you can clean it using a vacuum, compressed air, or simply by shaking off the dirt and debris. Should the filter be excessively dirty, it’s time to replace it with a new one. If it’s relatively clean, you can just reinstall it. Remember to also check the cabin air filter situated behind the glove box, responsible for cleaning the interior air of the car. Examine this filter and replace it if it’s visibly dirty or hasn’t been replaced previously.
Power Steering Fluid
Ensure the power steering fluid reservoir in your Lexus RX350 is filled up to the full mark. A low fluid level might suggest a leak. If so, replenish the fluid and inspect the power steering lines for any evidence of leaks.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes
In my over ten years as an automotive technician working in various dealerships and private workshops (a role I still hold), I’ve noticed that vehicles missing routine maintenance often face more frequent and severe issues. While some car manufacturers propose oil change intervals between 5,000 and 20,000 miles, my personal advice, especially for the Lexus RX350, is to opt for oil changes every 3,000 miles regardless of Lexus’s own recommendations. This practice is key in maintaining the vehicle’s peak performance and extending its engine life. Regular oil changes lessen engine wear and can enhance fuel efficiency by up to 2%. It also helps the engine run cleaner, crucial for preventing the accumulation of damaging deposits that can shorten an engine’s lifespan.