2006 Lexus Rx hybrid problems
The Lexus RX (Japanese: レクサス・RX, Hepburn: Rekusasu RX) is a luxury crossover SUV sold since 1998 by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. Originally released in its home market of Japan in late 1997 as the Toyota Harrier, export sales began in March 1998 as the Lexus RX.
Considered as the first luxury crossover SUV, five generations of the RX have been produced to date, the first being compact in size, and the latter classified as mid-size. Both front- and four-wheel drive configurations have been used on the RX series, and several gasoline powertrain options, including V6 engines and hybrid systems, have been offered. In the Lexus model lineup, the RX sits below the larger Lexus LX (marketed as the Toyota Land Cruiser body-on-frame SUVs outside North America, respectively), and above the shorter and less wider, but taller GX SUV. The name "RX" stands for "Radiant Crossover". It has also been labelled as "Recreational Cross Country" in some markets. The RX's current Toyota counterpart is the Highlander/Kluger; past counterparts included the Harrier and Venza.
The first-generation RX 300, fitted with a 3.0-liter V6 engine, began sales in 1998. The Japanese market Harrier released in 1997 also offered a 2.2-liter inline-four, later uprated to 2.4 liters. The second-generation RX 300 (3.0-liter V6) and RX 330 (3.3-liter V6) models went on sale in 2003, with both variants supplanted by the more powerful RX 350 (3.5-liter V6) in 2006. Like the previous series, a 2.4-liter inline-four engine was sold alongside the 3.0-liter V6 in the Japanese market Harrier. In 2005, a hybridized gasoline-electric version of the 3.3-liter second-generation model was made available as the RX 400h in export markets and as the Harrier Hybrid in Japan. For the third generation released in 2009, both RX 350 (3.5-liter V6) and RX 450h (3.5-liter V6 hybrid) models were initially offered, with an entry-level RX 270 (2.7-liter inline-four) offered by Lexus in some Asian markets, including in Japan, since 2010. Since the release of the third generation, Japanese sales have occurred under the RX name as opposed to Harrier as had been the case previously. In the fourth generation, a turbocharged (2.0-liter inline-four) RX 200t/300 model was introduced to replace the previous 2.7-liter unit.
The RX has been assembled at Toyota Motor Kyushu since launch. The RX and RX Hybrid were the first Lexus models to be built outside Japan, with North American market versions produced at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada plant in Cambridge, Ontario beginning 2003 (RX) and expanded in 2014 (RX Hybrid). Hybrid transaxles are built at the Kokura plant in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka since 2009.
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Common 2006 Lexus Rx hybrid problems
The Lexus RX400h, introduced in 2006, is a luxury hybrid SUV known for its dependability and fuel efficiency. However, like any vehicle, it may experience certain common problems over time. Here are some of the issues reported by owners of the 2006 Lexus RX400h:
- Hybrid Battery Concerns: The hybrid battery is a crucial component of the RX400h's powertrain. Some owners have expressed concerns about the battery's lifespan and potential failure. However, it's worth noting that the battery can often be repaired or replaced in sections, which may extend its life and reduce repair costs.
- Rattling Noise from Rear Seats: Some owners have reported a rattling noise coming from the rear seats, particularly when driving over speed bumps or poorly surfaced roads. This issue is caused by poor fitments of the rear seats, which allow for some play in the seat mechanism. Adjusting and tightening the rear seats should resolve this problem.
- Brake System Issues: The regenerative braking system in the RX400h has been known to cause issues for some owners. Some have reported needing to press the brake pedal harder than usual to fully engage the brakes, while others have experienced problems with the braking system not working properly. If the vehicle is still under warranty, taking it to a dealer for a software upgrade may resolve the issue.
- Inverter Leaks: The inverter, an important part of the hybrid engine, has been known to leak coolant in some RX400h models. If you notice lower liquid levels in the inverter coolant reservoir or a crusty pink substance around the inverter, these are indications of a leaking inverter. If your vehicle is still under warranty, Lexus should fix this issue free of charge. Otherwise, the cost of the repair is your responsibility.
- Check Engine Light with Code P0AA6: Ten owners have reported this issue, which is related to the hybrid system.
- Radiator and Front Control Arm Bushings: Some owners have reported needing to replace the radiator and front control arm bushings, which can result in a major bill.
- Front Steering Linkage: Some owners have reported needing to replace the front steering linkage due to worn bushings, which can also result in a major bill.
Despite these potential issues, many owners of the 2006 Lexus RX400h have reported positive experiences with the vehicle, praising its smooth ride, quiet hybrid system, and overall reliability. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, can help prevent some of these issues and prolong the life of the vehicle.
How long will a 2006 Lexus RX 400h last?
Best car I've ever owned
I now have 215K miles - still going strong. Lexus service says they've seen a few still going over 300K. Service also said they have never had to replace the EV battery unless car was in an accident.
What are the common problems with Lexus RX400h?
Lexus RX400h Common Problems and Solutions
- Rear seat rattle. Problem: Have you noticed a rattling noise coming from the rear seats? ...
- Braking problems. Problem: There have been several reports of braking problems with the RX400h. ...
- Leaking inverter. Problem: Have you noticed that the inverter is leaking on your RX400h?
Is 2006 Lexus rx330 a good car?
The RX 330 is a great example of what a luxury crossover utility can be. Excellent performance, a large interior and plenty of unique features make the Lexus SUV stand out in an already competitive segment.
How many miles per gallon does a 2006 Lexus RX 400h get?
The RX 400h has EPA ratings of 31 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway, which puts it near the top of the SUV class overall, and well above vehicles such as the Lexus LX 470, with its ratings of 13 mpg city/17 highway.
2006 Lexus Rx hybrid complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Lexus Rx hybrid.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2006 Lexus Rx hybrid problems:
Concerns about 2006 RX 400h - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion
Feb 12, 2020 ... We now have 249k miles. The only issue has been a radiator leak ( replaced for $100) from Rockauto and the usual such as timing belt, spark ...
2006 RX400H.... HELP! ENGINE TOTALLY DIES WHILE DRIVING ...
Feb 19, 2021 ... 14 Complaints: 2006 Lexus RX 400h Power Train Problems (carcomplaints.com) ... lexus-rx_400h-2006/recalls/. I hope this is a ... hybrid battery are ...
Considering buying a 2006 Lexus RX 400 Hybrid - Advice Please ...
Mar 24, 2011 ... (1) am I going to run in to similar mechanic / dealership issues? (2) will it be more expensive to service than a saab? (3) how regularly can I ...
Would you buy a 2006 Lexus RX 400h (Hybrid) if the battery was ...
Mar 16, 2022 ... It's versatile too, I can fit 2x4s in it (barely) and it plows through Canadian winters no problem. Only bigger maintenance issue I've had was a ...
Common issues on 2007 RX400H - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
Dec 28, 2017 ... VVTi lines made of rubber and can also cause the same issue. However, the above items were on a RX350. Since the 400H has the older / smaller ...
Other years of Lexus Rx hybrid
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