Lexus Rx300 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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Lexus Rx300 model years
Common Lexus Rx300 problems
The Lexus RX300 is a luxury crossover SUV that has been known for its reliability. However, like any other vehicle, it can experience certain issues over time. Here are some of the most common problems with the Lexus RX300 based on complaints from owners:
- Engine Misfire: This issue can occur due to a faulty ignition coil, which can cause the engine to misfire and the check engine light to come on. Ideally, all ignition coils should be replaced when one fails to prevent further damage to the engine.
- Car Idling Issues: The engine may feel as if it has little to no power when idling, and the check engine light may also be on. This issue can be caused by a worn-out purge control valve inside the EVAP system, which can be easily replaced.
- Rough Idling and Backfiring: This issue can occur due to rapidly burning out of the engine valves, which can cause the engine to lose power and stall regularly. Burnt-out or crushed engine valves can be replaced to prevent further damage to the engine.
- Long Stopping Time: The regenerative braking system on the RX300 can cause corrosion to build up more quickly on the brake discs and pads, which can cause the car to take longer to come to a complete stop. Regular replacement of the brake discs and pads can prevent this issue.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: This issue can occur due to the lower control arm bushes wearing out quickly, which can cause the steering wheel to vibrate excessively and make clunking noises. Replacing the bushings can fix this issue.
- Tailgate Rattle: This is a known issue on the RX300, and it can be fixed by packing out the tailgate with foam to stop the rattle.
- Starting Problems/Irregular Idling: This issue can occur due to the IAC (Idle Air control) and EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valves getting blocked up with carbon build-up. Cleaning out these parts can solve the issue.
- Boot Motor Failure: The automatic boot motor is known to fail on the RX300, and it can be replaced to fix the problem.
- Bonnet Problems: The bonnet struts can fail prematurely, and replacing them can resolve the issue.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the engine and related components can help prevent these issues from occurring in the first place. If you are experiencing any of these issues with your Lexus RX300, it's important to have a qualified mechanic diagnose and repair the issue as soon as possible.
What is the problem of Lexus RX300?
The RX300 has a known issue with the lower control arm bushes wearing out quickly. You're going to need to replace them, which is a lot easier to do than you might think. We always have bushings available in-store and deliver them quickly.
What is the life expectancy of a Lexus RX300?
There are alot of variables that determine the life of this or any other engine, including maintenance, driver habits on abusing the engine or not, driving conditions. IF not abused, well maintained and mix of highway and driving conditions, this engine typically will last 250,000 to 300,000 miles.
Does a Lexus RX300 have a timing belt or a timing chain?
This Fits Your 1999 Lexus RX 300. Your timing belt is typically replaced as part of a scheduled service. A failed timing belt can result in anything to an engine that will crank but not start to catastrophic engine damage.
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.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Rx300 years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Rx300 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Rx300 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Rx300 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Rx300 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Rx300 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Rx300 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Rx300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Rx300 model years
A total of 77 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Rx300 model years
There were a total of 13 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Rx300 model years
There were a total of 68 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 756 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Rx300 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Rx300 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lexus Rx300 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: JTJHF10U520
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Lexus RX300. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the air bag warning light flashed on the instrument panel. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 190,000.
Lexus Rx300 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-27
- VIN: JTJHF10U230
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I bought this vehicle from a private person and it look like it has odometer fraud. The odometer mark 85.555 miles but it really has around 185.555 miles or more not sure yet.
Lexus Rx300 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-21
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-22
- VIN: JT6HF10U0X0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 1999 Lexus RX300. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the brakes failed and could not be depressed to stop the vehicle. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the side of the road and stopped by shifting into neutral. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated intermittently. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic, where it was neither diagnosed nor repaired. The contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 99V012000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 249,000.
Lexus Rx300 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-06
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-07
- VIN: JTJHF10U330
- Components: VISIBILITY,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Lexus RX300. The contact stated that the HVAC system was inoperable. Additionally, the VSC and check engine warning lights were illuminated while starting the vehicle. The vehicle was diagnosed at an AutoZone with a catalytic converter failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 106,000.
Lexus Rx300 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-30
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-07
- VIN: JTJHF10UX20
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The system component that malfunctioned was the Fuel Tank Overfill Check Valve, also referred to the Rollover Valve located in the top of the gas tank. The valve is suppose to prevent any fuel purging or fuel leaking during a rollover accident. Unfortunately, the valve can malfunction during normal refueling without the owner being aware. For a few years, I have been smelling fuel fumes during and after refueling. I would sometimes discover a pool of raw fuel under the gas tank and charcoal canister during/after refueling and up to 12 miles later. The vehicle started hesitating, missing and actually stalling after refueling. Three professional mechanics couldn't solve the problem. In an attempt to eliminate this safety issue, I replaced the gas tank, gas filler tube, fuel vapor purge valve and charcoal canister. I finally discovered a tube from the malfunctioning Overfill Valve was sending raw fuel directly to the charcoal canister, filling the charcoal canister and ultimately overflowing onto the ground outside of the vehicle. I decided to cut a hole in the vehicle floor under the rear seat and replace the Fuel Tank Overfill Check Valve. The design of the replacement valve was different from the original and incorporated a float type check valve rather than just the simple diaphragm in the original. Maybe Toyota/Lexus quietly redesigned the valve, but all owners should be aware of the redesign and the vehicles should be recalled. Thousands of these vehicles are still on the road because people love them. These vehicles and the valves are aging and failing. Dangerous fire potential certainly exist. One previous owner did have this problem, I believe, and his vehicle burned to the ground. It's an extreme safety issue not just because of the hesitating/stalling in traffic after refueling, but mostly because of the raw fuel leaking from the charcoal canister under the vehicle right in the immediate vicinity of the hot exhaust and the gas tank.
Lexus Rx300 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-01
- VIN: JTJHF10U120
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 4 new tyres were installed by Firestone but driver side wore out despite balancing rotation, alignment performed during install. TyrePlus sister concern replaced with new tyre and prorated as the tyre was at fault. Same tyre blew out on the road. The tread, side all etc damaged the wire harness and car went out of control causing damage to suspension and fuel tank. Fuel began to leak. Car is toatled due to several other damages. TyrePlus does not want to take ownership. However they have all records of up to date maintenance. They referred me to Bridgestone wherein I need to submit 2 estimates. Tyre purchase dates maintenence etc. I have secured the tread and parts of the tyre which blew out and they want me to submit that. I am hesitatnt to submit it as they may tamper with the proof I have to fix it.
Lexus Rx300 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-23
- Date Complaint: 2021-07-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJGF10U720
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: Transmission wouldnt shift all of the sudden on the high way no prior mechanical issues was t boned and broke my leg abs and trac off lights mechanic says total transmission failure 121000 miles and this is the second owner of this vehicle
Lexus Rx300 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-05
- Date Complaint: 2020-09-04
- VIN: JTJHF10U130
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: AS I WAS DRIVING THE CAR STARTED TO SPEED UP UNCONTROLLABLY AND WOULD NOT SLOW DOWN EVEN WITH THE BRAKES APPLIED. I HAD TO PUT IT INTO NEUTRAL TO APPLY THE BRAKES BUT WE WENT FROM 45 - 85MPH IN A MATTER OF SECONDS WHILE DRIVING IN 45MPH ZONE IN THE INNER CITY. WHEN I TURNED THE CAR BACK ON WHILE IN PARK THE ACCELERATOR WAS STILL STUCK UP TO 100MPH + SO IT WAS NOT DRIVABLE. WE FOUND OUT LATER FROM THE MECHANIC THAT THE THROTTLE WAS STICKY AND STUCK IN THE OPEN POSITION.
Lexus Rx300 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-29
- Date Complaint: 2020-02-05
- VIN: JTJHF10U920
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: VEHICLES RETRACTABLE ANTENNA STOPPED RETRACTING AND ANTENNA MOTOR CONTINUES TO RUN TRYING TO PULL THE TELESCOPING ANTENNA BACK DOWN. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, ENGINE HAD BEEN SHUT DOWN AND KEYS REMOVED, BUT ANTENNA MOTOR KEPT RUNNING.
Lexus Rx300 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-13
- Date Complaint: 2019-12-18
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJHF10U330
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MY SON WAS INVOLVED IN A HEAD-ON CRASH RESULTING IN BOTH VEHICLES BEING TOTALED. THE DRIVER OF THE OTHER VEHICLE RECEIVED MINOR INJURIES FROM HIS AIR BAG. MY SON HOWEVER PUNCHED HIS HEAD THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD RESULTING IN SIGNIFICANT INJURY TO HIS HEAD AND FACE. BOTH AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, AND HE WAS WEARING HIS SEAT BELT. IT IS MY BELIEF THAT THE SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK CORRECTLY UPON IMPACT
Lexus Rx300 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2019-06-18
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: PURCHASED FROM MY MOTHER IN 2013 AT 115K AFTER SHE HAD PURCHASED NEW FROM DEALERSHIP. BABIED, DEALER SERVICED, MY TRANSMISSION GAVE OUT AT 130K AT A COST OF $3800!!! THEN IN LESS THAN A YEAR IT WENT AGAIN, AND IT WAS UNDER AAMCO WARRANTY. THEN TRANSMISSION WENT AGAIN IN 2018, AND JUST OUT OF WARRANTY. WHY IS THERE NOT A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT!!!!!! CAR DIED 3 SEPARATE TIMES WITHOUT WARNING IN VERY DANGEROUS SITUATIONS. $3800 WAS MY ENTIRE SAVINGS, AND NOW MY LEXUS WAS THE ONLY THING I HAD OF VALUE, AND IT IS WORTH $250 AS A JUNKER!
Lexus Rx300 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-10
- Date Complaint: 2019-03-16
- VIN: JTJHF10U510
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED AND IN PARK IN A FLAT LOT. WHEN I SHIFTED TO REVERSE, IT DID NOT ENGAGE/ROLL BACK. AS I APPLIED PRESSURE TO THE ACCELERATOR NOTHING HAPPENED UNTIL A IT SUDDENLY CLUNKED AND LURCHED BACK. I PUT IT BACK IN PARK AND THEN IT REPEATED THE SAME SYNPTOM. THE TRANSMISSION HAS NOW BEGUN TO WHINE AND THERE IS RUMBLING AND JERKILY BETWEEN ROUGH SHIFTS ON THE STREETS AND HIGHWAY. AFTER HEARING AND READING NUMEROUS HORROR STORIES OF THESE TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS, AND HOW THEY HAVE SUDDENLY GONE OUT OR LOCKED UP AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, I'M SURE THIS IS A PROBLEM LEXUS HAS KNOWN ABOUT AND IS DEFECTIVE, ESPECIALLY SINCE IT REPRESENTS MORE THAN 70% OF THE NTHSAS PUBLISHED COMPLAINTS ON THIS VEHICLE. THERE SHOULD BE AN INVESTIGATION INTO THIS. THE SUDDEN UNRELIABILITY OF THIS TRANSMISSION AND IT'S POTENTIAL TO CAUSE HARM IS NOT A COINCIDENCE AMONG THESE MANY REPORTS. IF THIS WERE A BOEING MAX 8 PLANE IT'D BE OUT OF COMMISSION FOR A FAILURE LIKE THIS!
Lexus Rx300 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-30
- Date Complaint: 2018-10-31
- VIN: JTJGF10U520
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SUDDENLY MY GEARS BEGAN SHIFTING INTO NEUTRAL, PARK, REVERSE AND INTO !ST AND 2ND GEAR WITHOUT LOCKING INTO ANY OF THEM. NO MATTER WHAT THE SHIFTER MOVES FREELY. MY CAR ONLY MOVES FORWARD NO MATTER WHICH GEAR IT'S IN, INCLUDING REVERSE. I PUT IT INTO PARK AND IT STILL KEEPS MOVING FORWARD. IN ORDER TO PARK AND STOP, I HAVE TO USE MY EMERGENCY BRAKE AND TURN THE CAR OFF. I DO NOT KNOW THE CAUSE (UNKNOWN) IT JUST SUDDENLY HAPPENED ON A TOLL ROAD AT THE PAY STATION. ALSO, MY INTERNAL LIGHTS DO NOT COME ON WHEN I OPEN ANY DOOR, INCLUDING THE TRUNK LIGHTS. MY RADIO DOES NOT CHANGE STATIONS AND KNOB DOES NOTHING, RECEPTION IS POOR & COMES AND GOES. I CANNOT GET ANY AM STATIONS.
Lexus Rx300 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-02
- Date Complaint: 2018-10-26
- VIN: JT6HF10115X
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,WHEELS
- Summary: TENGO. UN. PROBLEMA. CON. LOS. SINTURONES.BOLSAS. DE. AIRE. Y. ELECTROCO
Lexus Rx300 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2018-10-16
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: LEXUS HAS NOT ASSEMBLED/SECURED THE AIRBAG WIRING PROPER UNDERNEATH OF SEAT AND PROMPTS THE B1140 RIGHT-HAND SIDE AIR BAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY B1141 LEFT-HAND SIDE AIR BAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY CODES IN 2002 RX300 MODELS. THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST COMMON PROBLEM ON THIS VEHICLE AND CAN BE DEADLY FOR THESE CARS CONSIDERING THE AIRBAGS WANT DEPLOY IN AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE OF THE LOSE AND NOT PROPERLY SECURED WIRING. DEALER ASKS $1800 TO GET THIS CORRECTED WHERE AS THIS IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. NEEDS A RECALL FOR BOTH (LEFT/RIGHT) SEATS AIRBAG WIRING/ECM CIRCUITS.
Latest 5 recalls Lexus Rx300
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 25 recalls for different components of the Lexus Rx300.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lexus Rx300 1999
- Report Received Date: 2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Model: Lexus Rx300 2001
- Report Received Date: 2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Model: Lexus Rx300 2002
- Report Received Date: 2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Model: Lexus Rx300 2000
- Report Received Date: 2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Model: Lexus Rx300 2000
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Latest negative Lexus Rx300 car reviews
Latest positive Lexus Rx300 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2000
Over the past 18 months, I have driven my car for more than 50,000 miles and it is still going strong at 135,000 miles. I have only needed to perform normal maintenance, nothing more. The car still rides, runs, and stops as well as it did when it was new. Although I have heard about transmission problems, I have not experienced any myself (I am hoping the towing package helps with that). The car is made of strong metal and has only recently picked up its first door dings this year - and took a good wallop at that. I keep looking at new cars, but I just can't justify it when this one runs so well and looks so good.
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Vehicle year: 2002
I'm so glad to hear that your sons were okay after the accident! It's amazing how well the airbags worked. I completely agree with you about Lexus safety - they really do have a great reputation for keeping people safe. Your experience with the RX300 sounds fantastic - great gas mileage and reliable in tough winter conditions. It's so cool that you were able to pass it down to your son. I've heard similar stories from other Lexus owners - they really are such great cars that last a long time. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!
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Vehicle year: 2003
We absolutely love our Lexus RX300s! Our first one was a 2000 model with 52,000 miles when we bought it. It now has 227,500 miles and still runs and looks just as good as when we first got it. We recently found a one-owner 2003 RX-300 AWD with 91,100 miles on it, complete with navigation and other updates. The upgrades from 2000 to 2003 are fantastic! We cannot say enough good things about the Lexus RX-300. It's the perfect car for anyone who wants to travel in luxury and comfort, with plenty of cargo space and 4WD that can handle any weather condition. We've had very few minor problems with our cars, such as a window control switch acting up, but nothing major. We're now selling our first Lexus, but it's been hard to let go of a vehicle that's been so good to us. The first big tune-up is due at 125,000 miles, which includes a timing belt, spark plugs, water pump, and maybe a valve adjustment. The average cost is around $2,000, but then you should be good to go for another 100,000 miles. Fortunately, the first owner of our 2003 did it early. Thank you! We've had our second Lexus RX300 for over a year now, and even though it looks very similar to our first one, Lexus made many updates to the car's computers and suspension. It's been problem-free and a pleasure to drive anywhere and everywhere in comfort and confidence. UPDATE: Unfortunately, we lost our 2003 Lexus in the Paradise, CA Camp Fire. We put over 35,000 miles on it from when we purchased it with 91,000 miles, and it still looked and drove like a new car. We recently purchased a 2012 Lexus RX350 with 71,000 miles on it for $18,700. This car takes the RX to a whole new level, handling like a dream with every option you could ask for, including two TV monitors on the rear of the headrests and air-conditioned seats. Everything is controlled with a joystick and voice control.You're going to love the Lexus RX! It's incredibly responsive and powerful, with a six-speed transmission, 19-inch wheels and tires, and a 3500 engine. We've already driven 6,000 miles and enjoyed every minute of it. Our previous Lexus RX models were luxurious, but this one takes it to the next level with its amazing performance. Plus, all three models we've owned have had 4WD and handled great in snow and bad weather. Lexus RX models are simply the best when it comes to reliability, comfort, and an exceptional driving experience. Toyota Motor Division has truly outdone themselves!
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Vehicle year: 1999
I'm glad to hear that you downsized from an LS 430 and are enjoying both cars. It's great to know that the seats are just as comfortable and have strong seat heaters. The stereo/CD sounds good too. The mileage seems to range from 17-18 when running errands to 23-24 on the flat highway, which is impressive. This car is perfect for realtors/inspectors and practical for bad weather and bad roads. Just remember to keep up with oil/trans fluid changes. I also recommend switching to a K&N filter and 0/30 Mobil-One oil, which can improve your MPG by 1-3. Your car has 161,000 miles and still looks and runs like new, which is fantastic!
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Vehicle year: 2002
Your car is in great condition even after 17 years on the road! It's wonderful to hear that you have no complaints and that you feel like you couldn't have gotten a better car. With only 156,000 miles so far, it sounds like you have many more happy miles ahead of you!
Are you having problems with your Lexus Rx300?
Janick Konopelski 2025-11-17
Vehicle year: 2000
Hi there! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It sounds like this car has been pretty reliable overall, which is great to hear. The brake pads seem to be holding up really well, and it's interesting that the timing belt replacement recommendation is different from what Lexus suggests. It's a shame that the fuel economy isn't better, but it's good to know that the car has good pick up. You mentioned that the suspension is a bit soft and the turning radius is too large, and that you would prefer a tighter body. Have you considered looking into the hybrid version as a replacement? Thanks again for sharing your thoughts!
Kristopher Gutkowski 2025-11-08
Vehicle year: 2000
The transmission failed unexpectedly, but I took immediate action by contacting Lexus. Despite their initial apology, I was able to obtain a reconditioned transmission for $4200. Although this model's transmission is in high demand, my mechanic was able to locate one. Overall, I am satisfied with the outcome and my opinion of Lexus remains positive.
Oren Rohan 2025-10-28
Vehicle year: 2002
Bought as the fifth owner with 136K miles. While it may have been a risky move, unfortunately, the engine crapped out on the first 300-mile trip. After looking at some horror stories, I would never consider purchasing another RX300 unless the previous owner's maintenance could be verified beyond a shadow of a doubt. It's just too risky.
Lemuel Schmeler 2025-10-10
Vehicle year: 2000
The transmission went at 78000 miles. Although the warranty is 70k/7yrs, Lexus sticks to those numbers. It's worth noting that this is a low-end basic Toyota transmission that Lexus loaded up with weight and gadgets. Unfortunately, we know lots of people that have had 2x transmissions by 100k miles, some with 3x transmissions. It's the car's weak point for sure. Additionally, the engine has had a class action lawsuit for sludge/failure. Despite this, some dealers still deny there's a problem - they're told to be quiet about it. It's important to note that the 2WD reliability is poor, while the 4WD reliability is abysmal.
Ansley Zboncak 2025-10-03
Vehicle year: 1999
The car is reliable for the first five years. However, after that, it may require some maintenance. In my experience, I had to replace the transmission during the sixth year and two cylinders. But overall, it served me well.