2003 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.
Social links
Common 2003 Lexus Rx300 problems
The Lexus RX300, produced in 2003, is known for several common problems that owners have reported. These issues include rapidly burning out engine valves, faulty ignition coils, worn-out purge control valves, and excessive vibration in the steering wheel.
- Rapidly Burning Out Engine Valves: This issue is a significant concern for RX300 owners. If not addressed promptly, it can lead to a complete engine failure. The engine valves may wear out quickly, causing the engine to lose power and eventually fail. Replacing the burnt-out or crushed engine valves is now possible by ordering them directly from BreakerYard.
- Faulty Ignition Coils: If your RX300 has high mileage and starts to misfire regularly, with the check engine light on, it's likely that you have a faulty ignition coil. Ideally, you should replace all of your coils when one fails. Ordering from BreakerYard ensures quick delivery of the replacements.
- Worn-Out Purge Control Valve: When the car is idle, the engine may feel as if it has little to no power. The check engine light may also be on. This issue is caused by a worn-out purge control valve inside the EVAP system. These valves are easy to find on BreakerYard's parts list and are very easy to install.
- Excessive Vibration in the Steering Wheel: The RX300 has a known issue with the lower control arm bushes wearing out quickly. This issue can cause excessive vibration in the steering wheel and clunking noises. Replacing these bushes is relatively easy, and they are always available in-store for quick delivery.
Other common problems with the Lexus RX300 include brake corrosion due to the regenerative braking system, warped brakes, and suspension arm issues. These problems can lead to extended stopping distances, vibrations, and harsh, loud, and bouncy rides, especially on uneven roads. Installing softer tires or replacing the struts with aftermarket options with a softer spring rate can improve ride quality. The engine may also struggle on hills, and the transmission may have difficulty maintaining higher speeds
. Regular maintenance, such as checking headlights, power steering fluid levels, and sunroof drains, is essential to prevent electronic gremlins and water leaks into the interior
. Despite these common problems, the Lexus RX300 remains a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable, reliable, and practical daily driver with higher ground clearance and a higher seating position
What is the common problem with the RX300?
A common issue with the RX300 is rapidly burning out of the engine valves. If you try to dismiss this problem, then the engine will quickly burn out and die. It used to be that burnt out, or crushed engine valves would mean a complete engine replacement, but you can now order the valves directly from BreakerYard.
How many miles can a Lexus RX300 last?
In general, cars from this luxury brand can easily last 250,000 to 300,000 miles. While cars from other brands can last for around 150,000 miles, a Lexus can double that estimation and allows drivers to push the absolute limit of the vehicle's longevity before a replacement is necessary.
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.
Does the Lexus RX300 have a timing belt or chain?
belt
It does not have a chain, it has a belt.
2003 Lexus Rx300 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Rx300 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Lexus Rx300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Lexus Rx300
The NHTSA has received 30 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Lexus Rx300. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Lexus Rx300 vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-22
- 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.
VISIBILITY,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-06
- 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.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-05
- 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.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-13
- 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
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-16
- VIN: JTJHF10UX30
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON WHEN CAR IS RUNNING AND WHEN I HAD IT CHECKED OUT THE MECHANIC SAID IT COULD INFLATE AT ANY TIME. DON'T HAVE THE MONEY IN BUDGET TO HAVE DONE RIGHT NOW.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-26
- VIN: JTJHF10U530
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I OWN A 2003 LEXUS RX300. AFTER I HAD CAME FROM A COMPLETED STOP WHILE DEPRESSED ON THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE BRAKES BEGAN TO LOCK WITH THE ABS BRAKE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THE AV PUMP FAILED OR THAT IT MAYBE SOMETHING WITH THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURERS WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 320,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-27
- VIN: JTJHF10U530
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG "PROBLEM" WARNING LIGHT CAME ON INTERMITTENTLY. DEALER STATED THAT IF THE LIGHT WAS ON, THE AIR BAGS WOULD NOT DEPLOY IN A CRASH. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-26
- VIN: JTJHF10U730
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS 300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE AIRBAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIRBAG FAILURE WAS DUE TO WATER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-01
- VIN: JTJHF10U230
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: HAD CAR IN DRIVEWAY UNUSED FOR MONTH OR TWO. CAR SEEMED TO BE IDLING AT HIGHER THAN USUAL SPEED AFTER STARTING (@2300 RPM). VEHICLE JERKED A BIT AT EACH STOP SIGN AS IF PROBLEM WITH TRANSMISSION. TOOK VEHICLE ON ROAD AT 35 TO 40 MPH, TOOK FOOT OFF GAS AND VEHICLE KEPT ACCELERATING AT A MODEST PACE TO ABOVE 50. GLANCED AT FLOORMAT (NOT TOUCHING ACCELERATOR), PUT CAR IN NEUTRAL. ENGINE REVVED TO HIGH RPM THAN CAME BACK TO NORMAL. PUT BACK IN GEAR AND DROVE SHORT DISTANCE HOME. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-01
- VIN: JTJGF10U630
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SIX MONTHS AGO, THE DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. TWO WEEKS AGO, THE DRIVERS SIDE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. THIS APPEARS TO BE A WIDE SPREAD ISSUE WITH THESE LEXUS RX 300'S EVIDENCED BY THE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS LOGGED ON THE WEB. MY CAR WAS GARAGE KEPT FOR THE MAJORITY OF IT'S LIFE. THIS ISSUE SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING AND SHOULD BE REPAIRED BY LEXUS AT NO COST TO THE CONSUMER. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-01
- VIN: JTJGF10U930
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I CALLED MY LOCAL LEXUS THREE TIMES PRIOR TO JUNE, 2012 REGARDING LIGHTS SUDDENLY ILLUMINATING ON THE DASHBOARD. I HAD A RECURRING ISSUE WHERE THE CHECK ENGINE AND VSC WARNING LIGHTS WOULD ILLUMINATE. EACH TIME THE CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENT TOLD ME THAT THE LIGHTS WOULD GO OFF WHEN I REFUELED. THREE TIMES THE LIGHTS DID GO OFF (AFTER SEVERAL DAYS), BUT ONCE I HAD TO HAVE THE DEALER RESET THEM. THE MOST RECENT OCCURRENCE RESULTED IN THE DEALER TELLING ME I NEEDED THE AIR FUEL AND AIR FLOW SENSORS REPLACED, A REPAIR WHICH COST OVER $750.00. AS AN ASIDE, EVERY TIME I CALLED TO INQUIRE ABOUT THE LIGHTS BEING ILLUMINATED MY CAR WAS UNDER WARRANTY AND NO REPAIRS WERE SUGGESTED. AFTER THE WARRANTY EXPIRED I WAS THEN ADVISED THAT THE SENSORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-17
- VIN: JTJGF10U930
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DURING NORMAL DRIVING, WITH NO SIGNS OF FAILURE, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY WOULD LOSE POWER WHEN PRESSED ON GAS, IT ACTED AS IF IT WERE IN NEUTRAL---ENGINE REVS UP, BUT CAR DOES NOT MOVE. THEN WHEN SWITCHED TO SECOND GEAR OR L, TRANSMISSION STILL WOULD NOT ENGAGE. HAD IT TOWED TO A LOCAL TRANSMISSION SHOP, IT TURNED OUT TO BE THE PLANETARY GEAR BROKE. SEARCHED ONLINE LEXUS FORUM, FOUND OUT VERY MANY PEOPLE REPORTED THE SAME FAILURE IN TRANSMISSION. *TR
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-15
- VIN: JTJHF10U230
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY LOST TRANSMISSION ON THE ROAD AND WAS ROLLING FREELY. THE GEARS DOES NOT WORK ANYMORE AND THE VEHICLE ROLLS AS IF ITS IN NEUTRAL. WHEN SEARCH THE INTERNET I LOOKED AT LOT OF THE CUSTOMERS COMPLAINING ABOUT EXACT SAME THING, ABOUT THIS VEHICLE HAVING TRANSMISSION ISSUES ESPECIALLY FOR RX300. NO WONDER TOYOTA HAS THIS MANY RECALLS AND SURPRISED THAT THEIR PREMIUM BRAND HAS THE SAME ISSUES WITH SAFETY. I AM GLAD THAT THIS DID NOT HAPPEN ON A HIGHWAY
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJGF10U030
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS RX300. WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH OUT OF THE PARKING LOT THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AND HE LOST CONTROL. AS HE SWERVED THE VEHICLE HE HIT THREE SMALL TREES, A WOODEN FENCE, AND A BRICK WALL BEFORE THE VEHICLE STOPPED. THE AMBULANCE AND POLICE DEPARTMENT CAME BECAUSE HE WAS TRAPPED IN THE VEHICLE. HE WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL FOR INJURES TO HIS LOWER BACK. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THERE IS A POLICE REPORT IF NEEDED. THE INSURANCE COMPANY WAS NOTIFIED. THE DEALER NOR MANUFACTURER HAVE NOT BEEN CALLED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,070. UPDATED 05/10/10 *BF THE VEHICLE WAS DECLARED A LOSS. UPDATED 05/17/10.*JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-25
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJGF10U830
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS RX300. WHILE DRIVING INTO A DRIVEWAY AT SPEEDS OF UNDER 8 MPH, SHE HEARD A LOUD REVVING NOISE AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE GARAGE DOOR AND PUSHED TWO OTHER VEHICLES IN THE DRIVEWAY THROUGH A CEMENT WALL AND THROUGH HER HOME. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER NOR DEALER WERE CONTACTED. THE REPAIRS WERE COVERED THROUGH HER INSURANCE COMPANY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-25
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJGF10U830
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS RX300. WHILE DRIVING INTO A DRIVEWAY AT SPEEDS OF FEWER THAN 8 MPH, SHE HEARD A LOUD REVVING NOISE AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITHOUT INTENT. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE GARAGE DOOR AND PUSHED THE TWO VEHICLES INTO THE DRIVEWAY THROUGH A CEMENT WALL AND INTO HER HOME. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER NOR DEALER WAS CONTACTED. THE REPAIRS WERE COVERED THROUGH HER INSURANCE COMPANY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-15
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE TRANSMISSIONS IN LEXUS RX300 MODELS ARE UNSAFE. THE TRANSMISSION IN MY RX300 HAD TO BE REPLACED AT 70,000 MILES AND AGAIN AT 120,000 MILES. LEXUS IS NOT STANDING BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT. THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE TRANSMISSION IN THE RX300 MODEL. LEXUS WILL NOT ACKNOWLEDGE THIS DEFECT. ALSO, I WAS MISLED AT THE DEALERSHIP THE FIRST TIME THEY REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION. I WAS ASSURED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS NOT "REFURBISHED", WHEN, INDEED, IT IS NOT A NEW TRANSMISSION. THE DEFINITION OF THE WORD "REFURBISHED" WAS IN QUESTION. THE TRANSMISSION GOING OUT REPEATEDLY AND SO EARLY IN THE RX300 MODEL IS A SAFETY HAZARD. LEXUS' FAILURE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM AND THEIR DECISION TO WAIT UNTIL SOMEONE HAS A PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSMISSION IS A SAFETY ISSUE IN ITSELF. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-20
- VIN: JTJGF10UX30
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAVE A 2003 LEXUS RX300 WITH 134,000 MILES. THE TRANSMISSION FAILED ON 2/20/09. AFTER A COUPLE OF DAYS OF A SLIGHT WHINE, THREE LIGHTS CAME ON THE DASHBOARD. I TOOK IT IN TO MY LOCAL REPAIR SHOP. THEY RAN A COMPUTER DIAGNOSIS AND IT CAME BACK WITH TRANSMISSION FAILURE. I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE WHILE STILL UNDER WARRANTY AT 48,000 MILES IN 2006. I HAVE HAD THE TRANSMISSION SERVICED TWICE AT THE RECOMMENDED INTERVALS. IT WAS DUE FOR A 3RD SERVICE. INTERNET BLOGS REPORT THAT TRANSMISSION FAILURE IS A CHRONIC PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE AFTER 70,000 MILES. IN ALMOST 40 YEARS OF DRIVING, I HAVE NEVER HAD A TRANSMISSION FAILURE BEFORE. I OWNED A LEXUS ES300 PREVIOUSLY AND VOLVOS BEFORE THAT. THE LEXUS DEALER SAYS IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY. COST OF REPLACEMENT IS QUOTED AT $4200. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJHF10U330
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY WIFE DROVE THE VEHICLE TO WORK. SHE PARKED, TURNED THE ENGINE OFF, AND REMOVED THE KEY WHILE THE SHIFTER WAS IN THE NEUTRAL POSITION. THINKING THAT IT WAS IN "PARK", SHE EXITED THE VEHICLE AND BEGAN TO WALK AWAY. THE VEHICLE ROLLED BACKWARD AND PINNED HER RIGHT LET IN BETWEEN ITS REAR BUMPER AND THE BUMPER OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-12
- VIN: JTJHF10U610
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS RX300. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE ENGINE SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE TRANSMISSION WAS DETERMINED TO BE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE AND WAS REPLACED AT THE COST OF $3,922.40. A REPORT WAS FILED WITH THE MANUFACTURER AND THEY STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. THE CONTACT DID NOT ESTABLISH A RELATIONSHIP WITH THE DEALER; THEREFORE, THEY WOULD NOT ASSIST. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,926 AND CURRENT MILEAGE IS 79,000. UPDATED 3/9/09 *CN THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT INTO REVERSE. UPDATED 03/10/09. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-04
- VIN: JTJGF10U630
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 2003 LEXUS RX300 VEHICLE STALLED. REPLACE IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE TWICE**CW** THE CONSUMER ALSO REFERENCED A TOYOTA HIGHLANDER THAT HAD THE SAME STALLING ISSUE. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-27
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THIS COMPLAINT IS ALMOST IDENTICAL TO OTHERS I HAVE FOUND AND IS VERY SERIOUS. PURCHASED 2003 LEXUS RX300 FROM A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP; APPROXIMATELY 57000 MILES NOW, ABOUT 56000 AT PURCHASE. CAR CHECKED BY DEALERSHIP, OK. NO HARD DRIVING. AFTER FIRST DISTANCE TRIP (ST. LOUIS TO KC) CHECK OIL LIGHT AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. TOWED TO LEXUS DEALER WHO KNEW RIGHT WHERE TO LOOK. FOUND GELLED SLUDGE ALL THROUGH AND SAID IT WAS MISUSE. COMPLETE LIE. SAID ENGINE MUST BE REPLACED. NO HELP SO FAR FROM LEXUS. EXPECT TO SEE IF THIS IS HIDDEN DEFECT IN ENGINE, SINCE I HAVE FOUND NUMEROUS OTHER COMPLAINTS ON THE INTERNET THAT READ ALMOST EXACTLY THE SAME.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-21
- VIN: JTJHF10U230
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING OUT TO DENVER FROM OMAHA, RECEIVED LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT ON MY 2003 LEXUS RX300. PULLED OVER IMMEDIATELY, HAD CAR TOWED TO LEXUS DEALERSHIP. THEY IMMEDIATELY KNEW WHAT TO LOOK FOR AND SAY..THE CAR HAS BEEN MISUSED, (NO OIL CHANGES) AND OIL GELLING WAS RESULT. WITHIN MINUTES THEY SAID THE ENGINE WAS SHOT AND WOULD REQUIRE NEW ENGINE. THEY SHOWED ME THE SLUDGE WHICH WAS ONLY FOUND ON ONE CYLINDER HEAD, BY THE OIL RETURN LINE. QUANTITY WAS ABOUT ONE HANDFUL AND AS STATED, ONLY NEAR THE RETURN LINE, REMAINDER OF HEAD CLEAN. I HAD CHANGED OIL NIGHT BEFORE TRIP. THEY WILL NOT HONOR POWER TRAIN WARRANTY, SINCE I CANNOT PROVE OIL WAS CHANGED EVERY 7500 MILES. CAR HAS 50,000, AND I PURCHASED CAR FROM INDIVIDUAL WHO STATED HE ALWAYS MAINTAINED CAR BUT CANNOT PROVE WITH RECEIPTS. CALLED CUSTOMER SATISFACTION LINE WHO SAID UNLESS I PROVE THE ORIGINAL OWNER HAD OIL CHANGED THEY WOULD NOT HONOR. DEALERSHIP HAD STATED TODAY THAT ONLY ONE HEAD IS DAMAGED, THE OTHER IS FINE. SHORT BLOCK WILL REQUIRE REPLACEMENT AS WELL. IF IT WAS AN OIL CHANGE ISSUE WOULDN'T THE SLUDGE BE IN BOTH HEADS AND WHY WAS THE SLUDGE ONLY FOUND IN ONE SMALL SECTION OF HEAD, BY OIL RETURN LINE. IF THIS WERE A LACK OF MAINTENANCE, SLUDGE SHOULD BE EVERYWHERE (BOTH HEADS) NOT JUST ONE AREA...LEXUS STATED IT IS MY FAULT AND THEY DO NOT HAVE A DESIGN ISSUE WITH THIS V-6 ALTHOUGH I HAVE NEVER SEEN OIL GEL LIKE THIS...REGARDLESS OF MAINTENANCE HISTORY. LEXUS REPUTATION IS BIG JOKE IF THEIR ENGINES CAN'T MAKE IT 50,000 MILES. *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-10
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: CONSUMER EXPERIENCED A PROBLEM WITH THE FRONT WINDSHIELD CRACKING FOR NO KNOWN REASON WHILE PARKED IN THE GARAGE OVERNIGHT. CONSUMER REPLACED THE FRONT WINDSHIELD, WITHIN ONE WEEK. THE FRONT WINDSHIELD DEVELOPED ANOTHER CRACK WHILE PARKED IN THE GARAGE OVERNIGHT.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTJHF10U230
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO REMOVE KEY FROM THE IGNITION WITH VEHICLE NOT BEING IN THE PARK GEAR. AS A RESULT VEHICLE ROLLED AND CRASHED INTO A TREE.*AK
2003 Lexus Rx300 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2003 Lexus Rx300.
- Manufacturer: POLYMER PROCESS DEVELOPMENT, LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
- Summary: POLYMER PROCESS DEVELOPMENT IS RECALLING 931 UNITS OF BACK GLASS, P/NO. FB20415ZPY, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON 1999-2004 LEXUS RX300 VEHICLES. THE GLASS FAILS TO CONFORM TO THE AUTOMOTIVE GLAZING MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, GLAZING MATERIALS.
- Consequence: THE PURPOSE OF THIS STANDARD IS TO REDUCE INJURIES RESULTING FROM IMPACT TO GLAZING SURFACES.
- Remedy: POLYMER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT POLYMER TOLL-FREE AT 800-510-9879.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Negative 2003 Lexus Rx300 car reviews
Positive 2003 Lexus Rx300 car reviews
-
It's a good SUV, but I would have preferred the 04 330 model as it has more of what I want. We averaged 15.8 in the city and 16.0 on the highway in gas mileage. I could get the same gas mileage with a V8 and more power too! When the sunroof is open, you get a bad wind-like noise with the wind deflector down and/or if one of the windows is opened, which can be annoying. The service is too expensive, but at least you get a free rental car, which is a plus. Other than that, it's a good SUV. I would recommend it to anyone. Every car, truck, and SUV has its downsides! As my dad would say, 'It is a hundred times better than an American SUV'!
-
It sounds like you had a great experience driving this vehicle! It's great to hear that it handles well in all weather conditions and has a comfortable and roomy interior. The sound system sounds superior and it's always a plus to have plenty of cup holders and storage locations. Overall, it sounds like a sharp and fun vehicle to drive.
-
This is the best car!
-
The Lexus RX300 is a fantastic SUV that offers great handling and brakes, without being a gas-guzzler. However, if you're looking for a larger SUV experience, this may not be the right car for you.
-
The Lexus RX300 is the perfect family SUV because it is fun to drive, has more cargo room than the Jeep Grand Cherokee LTD, and boasts the best fuel mileage in its class. Additionally, it is completely trouble-free and totally reliable.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Lexus Rx300 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
Other years of Lexus Rx300
Are you having problems with your 2003 Lexus Rx300?
Edgardo Schumm 2024-11-05
I am confident in my decision and do not regret it. The Hummer may have been an option, but I am satisfied with my choice.
Dorcas O'Connell 2024-06-09
This vehicle has several issues, including a terrible rattle from the left side and excessive wind noise at 60mph. Despite being serviced multiple times, the problems persist, and new ones have even arisen, such as a scratch on the bumper and ink on the leather. It is recommended to thoroughly test this vehicle on all types of roads before making a purchase. Additionally, caution is advised when dealing with the service department at Putnam Lexus in Redwood City, CA.
Will Hoppe 2024-03-23
The engine vibration in my RX has worsened over time, despite the dealer claiming it is normal. Even the new models have more vibration than some cars, which is not ideal. The motor mounts in the RX are different from other Lexus cars, so it may exceed the norm, but it is still not acceptable to have to shift into neutral at a red light to avoid chattering teeth.