[KKM]

I performed my first DIY oil change on the CT at 6200 miles. It's 9 months old so not a lot of miles since I also drive another vehicle several times a week. I was really surprise at how dark the oil was compared to the new oil. The odor from the oil was a fairly strong burnt note as it was draining, I didn't even have to put my nose too close to the oil. I don't drive my car hard at all.

Knowing this, I wish I had changed it 4,000 miles especially being the first oil change after break in. I know they say that the new cars these days with synthetic should be able to go 10k in between oil changes but I think my next change will be at 5k and will go from there. I have a tendency to keep my cars for a very long time so this is cheap insurance.

I would suggest that those who take it in for the 5k free maintenance pay for an oil change or DIY.

BTW, was there suppose to be a gasket on the drain plug? It was fairly dark under there and didn't see one. Do I believe that they always change the filter housing gasket that comes with filter? I doubt that they bother with it, that's why I DIY.

 

[KKM]

Yes there is a gasket that is supposed to be changed out, same as the filter cap o-ring. Oops..

As it turns out, I had replaced the oil with the wrong viscosity, 0W-30 instead of 20, although it probably would've been fine, I didn't want to take a chance with the higher viscosity especially with winter coming. I was really surprise to see how dark the new oil looked as it was draining, picked up a lot of gunk, kicking myself for not changing my oil earlier.

Anyways, I looked closely this time and saw that there was like a washer or maybe that is the oil drain plug gasket surroung the hole. I could'nt budge it with my fingers, is that the gasket stuck? I'll keep an eye on the garage floor for any leaks.

 

[KKM]

in singapore, the first oil change is at 1000km. second is 10k.


i noticed at 10k, the oil still looks rather good. clear oil color and no weird smells [i know, its not the most scientific way to judge (= ]


Lexus would void my warranty if i try to extend it till 16000km (10000miles). so i have no choice but to follow.

1000km? That's 621 miles for the first oil change? Wonder why the big difference with US at 10,000 miles for the first change. Also surprise that your oil is somewhat clear at 10k km. My first change. as indicated at about that same mileage, was soy sauce dark in color and the smell permeated, once you get a whiff it kinda lingers in your lungs, sorta like following a beater billowing acrid smoke.

 

[KKM]

I live in the San Francisco Bay area so the temperature is very moderate and ideal year round.
I don't drive it hard at all, been averaging about 46 mpg and try to keep it in the eco zone, haven't been using sport mode much.
A bit of a mystery regarding the difference, anyone else with observations?