Easiest Way To Change Lexus ES350 Oil and Filter

Overview

This is easiest way to change engine oil and filter for a Lexus ES350. The example used here is a 2014 model year car. We begin with the kind of tools needed, and proceed to replacing the canister type oil filter. And then I will demo a method for easy oil extraction and focus on the most important aspect of the oil extraction: how to speed up the oil extraction time. If you don’t use oil extraction, you may simply use traditional way to drain the oil through the oil plug. Finally I will show you how to reset the maintenance light.

If you are interested in just watching how to change the canister type oil filter, you may watch this video: https://youtu.be/C074os54sQM

Alternative Methods

There is more than one way to approach this task. Here are the most common methods, ranked by difficulty and cost.

Traditional Drain Method

Drive onto ramps or use jack stands, locate the drain plug, remove it, drain oil into a catch pan, replace filter, refill.

Difficulty: Intermediate
Estimated Cost: $25-$50 for oil and filter
Notes: Most thorough drain; requires getting under the car

Oil Extractor/Vacuum Method

Use a hand pump or electric extractor to pull oil through the dipstick tube without getting under the vehicle.

Difficulty: Beginner
Estimated Cost: $30-$60 for extractor + oil
Notes: No need to lift the car; slightly less complete drain

Quick Lube Service

Drive into a quick-lube shop for a full-service oil change completed in 15-30 minutes.

Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
Estimated Cost: $40-$100
Notes: Fast and convenient; may upsell unnecessary services

Tips and Common Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls and use these tips to get the job done right the first time.

Always warm the engine for 2-3 minutes before draining — warm oil flows out more completely.
Use the oil weight and type specified in your owner’s manual, not what is cheapest on the shelf.
Hand-tighten the oil filter — over-tightening makes it nearly impossible to remove next time.
Double-check the drain plug torque after refilling to prevent leaks.
Run the engine for 30 seconds after refilling, then recheck the oil level — it will drop as the filter fills.
Never mix conventional and synthetic oil types unless your manual specifically allows it.
Keep a drain pan under the vehicle for 10 extra minutes — the last drops always come out slowly.
Dispose of used oil properly at any auto parts store — they accept it for free.

Tools and Materials

Item	Estimated Cost
Engine oil (4-6 quarts)	$20-$40
Oil filter	$5-$15
Oil drain pan	$8-$15
Socket wrench or oil filter wrench	$5-$20
Funnel	$3-$5
Rags or shop towels	$5-$10
Ramps or jack and jack stands	$25-$80
Nitrile gloves	$5-$10

When to Take It to a Mechanic

While oil changes are one of the simplest DIY maintenance tasks, consult a mechanic if:

The oil looks milky or foamy — this can indicate coolant mixing with oil due to a blown head gasket.
You find metal shavings on the drain plug — internal engine wear may be occurring and needs investigation.
The oil pressure light comes on even after a fresh change — the oil pump, pressure sensor, or internal passages may be failing.
You cannot locate or access the drain plug — some modern vehicles have underbody panels that require special tools.
The vehicle burns oil rapidly (needing top-offs between changes) — piston rings or valve seals may need attention.

Video Tutorial

For the full video tutorial, visit Genius Asian.

Continue learning with these related guides:

This article was originally published on cartrek.com on 2016-09-11. Content has been updated and expanded for 2026.