Intro
Several months ago, I performed the first oil change on my 2023 Lexus GX at 3,000 miles. This was my first time doing an oil change, so I documented the entire process, including the tools and equipment I used, in a blog post on Medium.
For more details, you can read the full story by clicking the image below.
List of Tools that I purchased
1. Tools to jack up the car
To lift the car and hold the car, I decided to use “a Low Profile Floor Jack” and “two 6ton Jack Stands”. The Floor Jack should be ( or has to be ) a low profile. And, the Jack Stands should be at minimum 6ton to be safe.
- two Big Red — 6ton jack stands
- one Liftmaster — 3ton floor jack
- Rubber Heavy Duty Black Wheel Chock ( Optional, but I highly recommend it )
Tools for extra safety during jacking up
When I watched YouTube about engine oil changes, I noticed that people use the wheel chock. The wheel chock prevents the car not moving while jacking up the car.
Initially, I thought it might not be necessary because I could just use a piece of wood or rock. However, I tried the Rubber Heavy Duty Black Wheel Chock, I changed my mind. The rubber wheel chock was way better than the temporary tools like wood or rock.
2. Tools to unscrew skid plagt
Once the car is jacked up, the next step is to remove the skid plate.
Tools used:
- SATA 3/8″ Rachet 72tooth
- NEIKO 3/8” Metric Deep Sockets ( the
metricis important )
I chose a 3/8” ratchet because I wanted my socket set to be 3/8”. This size also works with a 3/8” impact wrench, and it’s compatible with the Motivex Oil Filter Wrench used to unscrew the oil filter cap, which means one less tool to buy.
I also purchased the NEIKO 3/8” metric deep sockets. These sockets offer more than I need for the engine oil change, but since I plan to perform off-road modifications on my car in the future, I decided to invest in a high-quality set. The reviews were excellent, and they were on sale.
To unscrew the skid plate, only these sockets are necessary:
- 10mm (for the front part of the skid plate)
- 12mm (for the middle part of the skid plate)
- 14mm (for the oil drain plug)
3. Tools to unscrew the engine oil filter
To replace the oil filter, the oil filter plastic cap has to be unscrewed. To unscrew the oil filter plastic cap, the oil filter wrench can be used.
I bought the Motivex’s Oil Filter Wrench because It uses aluminum, so it can be stronger and more reliable than one with plastic. Furthermore, this Motivex’s Oil Filter Wrench is compatible with the SATA 3/8″ Rachet 72tooth that I mentioned in the previous section.
4. Tools to Store the Drained Oil
I preferred an oil container over an oil pan because I didn’t want to spend extra time and energy transferring the drained oil into another container for transport.
I chose the Groz 41966 15 Quart Drain Pan for several reasons:
- The price was reasonable and it had good reviews.
- The container size was large enough.
- It has a net that can prevent the drain plug from falling into the oil container.
- The net also helps to prevent oil splashes.
When I received the container, I tested it with water to check for any possible leaks.
To be safe, I don’t plan to carry it vertically. If the orange cap comes off by any chance, it could cause a big mess in my car.
5. Tools to refill engine oil
Once all the engine oil is drained, the next step is adding new engine oil.
I bought this item because this funnel does not move while I refill engine oil. The typical funnel has to be held by one hand to prevent it from moving. In this case, APSG LOCKING OIL FUNNEL works very well because it is screwed and tight to the engine oil entry.
If your budge is allowed, it is recommended.
6. Parts: Engine Oil / Engine Oil filter / Oil drain plug gasket
Lastly, the part replacements have to be purchased.
You can buy these from your local Toyota ( or Lexus ) Part department as well. Lexus and Toyota share these parts.
Disclaimer
“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”
