How Often Should I Change The 5W-30 Synthetic Oil If I Drive 5K Miles

[topgun129]

Hi,

How often should I have the 5W-30 synthetic oil changed in my 98 GS300 if I drive an average of 5K miles a year? The car currently has 108,460 miles on it and it has been 5694 miles since the last oil change.

Thanks!

[James Horning]

Oil never really wears out , it just gets very contaminated from the combustion process, condensation and it breaks down.

If you live in a dry climate or one with little change or humid these are factors.

Your drive cycle is a huge factor, but if when you drive it , it's for a extended period.

If the oil gets hot enough it will burn off contamination. Lucky your older cars is simple , precise and very durable as is this engine design.

For myself, I don't consider oil changes a cost , it's protection for something that is very costly. I would say four times a year, make it a day thing, along with a wash and wax .

A 98 GS is a classic and a very crucial part of Lexus's history of perfection.