2003 Lexus Rx 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 2003 Lexus Rx problems
The 2003 Lexus RX300 is a compact SUV known for its reliability and comfort, but like any vehicle, it can develop issues over time. Here are some common problems reported by owners of the 2003 Lexus RX300, based on the search results:
- Check Engine Light (CEL): The CEL may illuminate due to various reasons, such as a blown or disconnected bulb, a faulty MAF sensor, or issues with the IACV. Connecting a reader to check for engine codes and addressing the underlying issues can help resolve this problem.
- Rough idling and backfiring: This issue can be caused by rapidly burning out engine valves, which can lead to engine failure if not addressed promptly. Replacing the damaged valves with new ones from BreakerYard can help solve this problem.
- Difficulty stopping: The regenerative braking system in the RX300 is highly efficient, but it can cause corrosion in the brake discs and pads, leading to their replacement every 15,000 miles. Checking for excessive rust on the rear part of the undercarriage and replacing the brake discs and pads as needed can help address this issue.
- Steering wheel vibration and clunking noises: The RX300 has a known issue with the lower control arm bushes wearing out quickly, causing excessive steering wheel vibration and clunking noises. Replacing the worn-out bushes can help solve this problem.
- Broken key shells: This issue can be annoying and may require replacing the key shell. It is not a widespread problem but can occur in some cases .
- Issues with opening or closing the power tailgate: This issue is not uncommon in the RX300, and addressing the underlying cause can help resolve it .
- Excessive headlight condensation: Over time, excessive headlight condensation can lead to headlight failure. Checking the headlights closely and addressing the issue, such as replacing the headlights under recall or extended warranty, can help prevent this problem .
- Power steering fluid leaks: Leaks from the power steering system can occur, with the steering rack being a common culprit. Replacing the damaged lines or the steering rack can help address this issue .
- Water leaks into the interior: Water leaks can be a significant issue in the RX300, often caused by clogged sunroof drains. Cleaning the drains and ensuring the box section drains are not clogged can help prevent water leaks .
In summary, the 2003 Lexus RX300 can develop various issues over time, but regular maintenance and addressing underlying problems can help ensure its reliability and longevity.
How long do Lexus RX330 last?
While the average vehicle tends to stay on the roads for around 150,000 miles, the Lexus RX exceeds this by quite a lot. With the proper care and smart driving habits, you can be driving for 250,000 miles or more!
What is the common problem of Lexus RX300?
The automatic boot motor is known for failing on the RX300. If you are finding that the automatic boot is making a clunking noise when you press the button to open/close the boot, then this is an indication of the motor starting to fail. If the boot does not open at all, then the motor has completely failed.
What is the common problem with Lexus RX 330?
Problems include delayed shifting, faulty fuel pumps, worn window trims, cracked dashboards, and warped brake rotors. Choosing the Lexus RX330 comes with little risk as long as you're aware of the potential problems it can develop.
What is the problem if the car has a check engine Lexus RX300?
Lexus RX300 Check Engine Light Flashing
Other common reasons for a Check Engine Light are faulty head gasket, a malfunction with the fuel injection system, dirty mass airflow sensor, faulty emissions control part, damaged oxygen sensor, or defective spark plugs to name a few.
2003 Lexus Rx complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Lexus Rx.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Lexus Rx problems:
2003 Lexus RX300 Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Lexus RX300? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Lexus RX300.
Several concerns with a 2003 RX300 - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
Aug 27, 2023 ... Is your idle 750 rpm? How old is the gas? Is the vehicle garaged and protected from critters? What is the tire pressure ... cold first thing in ...
2003 Lexus RX 300 Comments (r96268)
Aug 29, 2007 ... There isn't any problem with Lexus RX300 transmission according to "Consumer Guide Automotive" and "Identifix Reliability Ratings" from carfax.
RX300 Engine/Trans problems: Widespread or not? - ClubLexus ...
Aug 22, 2009 ... RX - 1st Gen (1999-2003) - RX300 Engine/Trans problems: Widespread or not ... RX300 Engine/Trans problems ... lexus, location, problems, rx, rx300, ...
My first car. 2003 Lexus Rx300 that my family has owned for 18 years
Sep 12, 2021 ... My Rx300 had 260k miles before I gave it away. Body was rusted and had a lot of cosmetic problems, but engine was silky smooth. Upvote 1
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