Lexus dealer charge anywhere from 130 to 150 dollars for 5000 mile oil change. I have LS430 2005 and I would like to cut the cost of maintenance on my car. I was told Lexus has special gasket on oil filters, so the mechanics has to know what they are doing. Is it safe to use neighborhood mechanic for maintenance or is Lexus dealer absolutely necessary for this.

I believe dealer is robbing you. I wouldn't recommend a quickie oil change shops such as jiffe lube either, I have heard they hire inexperienced people . Any competent neighborhood garage can change it for you. Nothing difficult about the job. If anyone suggests synthetic oil question that! Also , save your receipt's for warranty purposes.

You will be able to get it changed at any Jiffy Lube for
less than $30....Wal-Mart for less than $20...
You would be a fool to get it changed at the dealership
for $130 - $150...