2018 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 2018 Lexus Rx problems
The 2018 Lexus RX 350 is a well-regarded luxury SUV known for its long-lasting durability, handling, and safety features. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Here are some of the issues reported by owners of the 2018 Lexus RX 350:
- Excessive Paint Chips: Some 2018 Lexus RX 350 owners have reported excessive paint chips, particularly on the front bumper, within the first 30,000 miles. This is due to the larger front bumpers and grilles found in Lexus' lineup, which are more prone to catching stones. The only way to fix the chips is to repaint the affected areas, which can cost around $1,000 per panel.
- Dead Batteries: Dead batteries have also been reported in some 2018 Lexus RX 350 models at around 20,000 miles. The SUV has many electronic accessories that can sometimes drain the battery even when it's off. Replacing the battery costs about $300, depending on local labor rates, and an additional $100 to diagnose any parasitic draw.
- Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported erratic acceleration, especially at lower speeds, due to the engine and transmission changes in the 2018 and later models. These issues are related to the engine's constant search for the best gear/speed/rpm to optimize fuel efficiency, which can lead to a less smooth acceleration experience.
- Dashboard Cracking: In the first few model years, including the 2007-2008 Lexus RX 350, there were issues with dashboard cracking. While this can be a cosmetic issue, it can also interact with the airbag system or create uncomfortable areas on the dashboard, depending on the location of the crack.
- Oil Leaks: Early models of the Lexus RX 350, including the 2007-2008 models, were prone to oil leaks. These leaks were severe in early models, but later releases, such as the 2018 model, have seen fewer instances of this problem. Severe oil leaks can make it difficult to maintain the vehicle correctly and are usually relatively expensive to repair.
- Steering Problems: The rack and pinion in early releases of the Lexus RX 350, including the 2007-2008 models, sometimes start to fail, which can be a significant safety concern. Replacing the part is the only way to repair this problem, which usually costs over $1,600.
It is essential to note that these common problems do not necessarily mean that every 2018 Lexus RX 350 will experience these issues. Many owners have reported positive experiences with the vehicle, praising its reliability, comfort, and safety features.
What is the common problem with Lexus RX?
Here are some common problems associated with the Lexus RX350: Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the navigation system, the infotainment screen, or issues related to electrical components. Transmission Problems: A small number of owners have experienced transmission issues, which ca.
What year Lexus RX 350 is the most reliable?
According to industry reviews, consumer feedback, reported problems, and NHTSA statistics, the most reliable years for Lexus RX350 are 2014, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. In these particular years, the car received the highest ratings in terms of safety, reliability, and performance.
How long does Lexus RX engine last?
250,000 miles
When properly cared for and driven, the Lexus RX can last for 250,000 miles or more. This longevity is thanks to the following: Performance: The Lexus RX has three engines from which to choose, all of which are highly dependable.
Is the Lexus RX reliable?
The 2024 Lexus RX 350 has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
2018 Lexus Rx complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Lexus Rx.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Lexus Rx problems:
2018 Lexus RX Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jan 3, 2023 ... The 2018 Lexus RX lasts around 300,000 miles with only minor strut and paint issues. At $31,600 to $40,150, it's expensive, but worth the high ...
2018 Lexus RX Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · In-car Electronics · Engine Major · Brakes · Engine Cooling · Climate System · Transmission Minor · Noises And Leaks · Paint And ...
Are there really that many issues with the RX? - Page 7 - ClubLexus ...
May 26, 2017 ... Hi Guys, I'm currently in the market for a 2017 Lexus RX 350 and I came across two common issues for this vehicle. When I filter this forum ...
Here Are The Lexus RX 350 Years To Avoid - CoPilot
Apr 2, 2024 ... Let's look at some of the most common problems and rate which models are the most reliable or best options for people looking to buy a used ...
How much does it cost to fix a Lexus RX350? What are some ...
Oct 26, 2023 ... Lexus is a luxury brand, and repairs can be relatively more expensive compared to non-luxury vehicles. Here are some common problems associated ...
Other years of Lexus Rx
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