2016 Lexus RX450h Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2016 Lexus RX450h and How to Address Them Effectively

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2016 Lexus RX450h is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Lexus RX450h is leaking oil?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to identify the source of the oil leak in a 2016 Lexus RX450h?

To effectively identify the source of an oil leak in your 2016 Lexus RX450h, start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine and the area beneath the vehicle. Look for any visible signs of oil accumulation or dripping, as these can provide immediate clues. Next, check the oil levels to assess if there has been a significant loss, which may indicate a leak. Pay special attention to the oil filter and drain plug; ensure they are secure and free from any signs of leakage. Inspecting gaskets and seals is also crucial, as wear or damage in areas like the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket can lead to leaks. If the source remains elusive, consider adding UV dye to the engine oil, which can help illuminate the leak's location under UV light. Finally, conducting a pressure test on the oil system can reveal leaks that are not visible during a standard inspection. By following these steps, you can systematically diagnose and address the oil leak issue in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2016 Lexus RX450h?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2016 Lexus RX450h, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may arise. One frequent culprit is the oil pan gasket, which can degrade over time, leading to leaks that can compromise engine performance. Additionally, valve cover gaskets are known to deteriorate, allowing oil to escape and potentially causing engine damage if not addressed. Another area to inspect is the oil filter housing gasket; if this seal fails, it can result in significant oil loss. Crankshaft seal leaks are also a concern, as wear can lead to oil seeping out, necessitating replacement to maintain engine integrity. Lastly, oil cooler lines may develop leaks due to wear and tear, contributing to oil seepage. Regular maintenance and timely inspections are essential to identify these issues early, ensuring your Lexus RX450h remains in optimal condition and preventing costly repairs down the line.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2016 Lexus RX450h?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2016 Lexus RX450h is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring an oil leak can lead to a significant drop in oil levels, which compromises the lubrication of essential engine components. This lack of lubrication can result in increased friction, leading to severe engine damage over time. Furthermore, an oil leak can cause the engine to overheat, a situation that not only risks costly repairs but could also culminate in complete engine failure. Additionally, the safety implications cannot be overlooked; leaking oil can drip onto hot engine parts, creating a fire hazard that endangers both the vehicle and its occupants. Therefore, if you notice any signs of an oil leak, it is crucial to act swiftly to mitigate these risks and ensure the longevity and safety of your Lexus RX450h.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2016 Lexus RX450h Oil Leak Causes & Diagnosis | RepairPal