2011 Lexus Rx330 problems
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Common 2011 Lexus Rx330 problems
The Lexus RX330 is a luxury crossover SUV that was produced from 2004 to 2009, and it is known for its reliability and high-quality engineering. However, like any other vehicle, the Lexus RX330 may develop issues as it racks up mileage. Here are some of the most common problems with the Lexus RX330 based on complaints from owners of this car:
Radiator Issues (2006 Model):
According to reports, radiator issues top the list of 2006 Lexus RX330 common problems. The first thing that the owners of the affected units noticed was a radiator leak. Upon investigation, most of them found a split or crack on the bottom seam of their SUV’s radiator. Most owners were able to solve the issue by replacing their faulty radiator. If your SUV develops similar issues, don’t worry. There are many top-notch yet affordable aftermarket radiators on the market, so finding one for your Lexus will be easy.
Transmission Shifting Lag (2004-2006 Models):
Several owners of the 2004-2006 model have complained that their SUV shifts lag when they’re accelerating at certain speeds (10 to 20 mph). To solve this issue, Lexus has released a software update for the transmission control module. However, in some cases, the delayed shifting was caused by a faulty component (not an outdated model). So if you encounter this issue, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop immediately. A mechanic would know how to diagnose the problem correctly and rule out underlying issues.
Car Won't Start (2005 Model):
Several 2005 Lexus RX330 owners have also complained that their SUV won’t start for no reason. According to reports, this usually happens at around 24,000 miles. Some drivers also had difficulty starting their car after pumping gas. There are many possible reasons why a vehicle won’t start. A faulty car battery and fuel pump are the most common culprits. If you’re struggling to start your Lexus, take it to an auto repair shop right away for proper diagnosis and repair.
Oil Leaks:
Another common and relatively severe problem with the Lexus RX360 is that the engine seems prone to oil leaks. In early models, these leaks were severe, and many consumers chose to pay for repairs and to have the engines sealed rather than paying for extra oil to handle the leaks. Severe oil leaks can make it hard to maintain your vehicle correctly, and unfortunately, they are also usually relatively expensive to pay for and repair. The good news is, like most of the problems with the early RX 350, later models got away from this problem, and the oil leaks got less noticeable even when they happened.
Steering Problems:
One of the biggest safety problems with the early releases of the Lexus RX 350 is that the rack and pinion sometimes start to fail, which is both a huge safety concern and a relatively expensive fix. Replacing the part is the only way to repair this problem, which usually costs upwards of $1,600. Since this problem is a little unpredictable and seems to be common under 100k miles, that’s a pretty significant repair to need relatively early in owning the vehicle.
Battery Failures:
Another common problem, though thankfully a less expensive problem, is battery failures. The battery in the Lexus RX350 may fail prematurely, especially in models produced between 2007 and 2011. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including a weak battery, faulty charging system, or corroded battery terminals. If you suspect that your battery is failing, have it checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Dashboard Cracking:
Like other models Lexus released in 2007, there was a plastics issue with the dashboard in that first model. The Lexus RX 350 had some problems with the dashboard, specifically cracking in the first few model years, though it was a problem that was resolved with subsequent releases. This issue isn’t always serious; it can be a cosmetic issue. But depending on where the crack occurs, it can also interact with the airbag system, leaving internal wiring more vulnerable or potentially making rough or uncomfortable areas on the dashboard.
Airbag Sensor Failure:
This failure actually led to a recall of some 2016 RX 350s. Either the airbag sensor or accelerator sensor was known to fail for the front airbags. This could possibly lead to the airbags not deploying in a crash, thus being a very hazardous condition if you happen to get into an accident.
Electronic Stability Control:
This failure also led to a recall of some 2016 RX 350s. In this system, an O-ring in an actuator might be damaged, which will result in improper brake fluid pressure when anti-lock braking (ABS), traction control (TCS), or stability control is active. This can lead to a driver losing control of the vehicle as these systems will not function as they should, increasing the risk of an accident.
Software Update:
A lot of people freak out because the radio or the GPS or the CD player is intermittent. All's it is is simple. First step always on Lexus is to get a software update, make sure it is the latest update, and it should fix all those little kinks you got going on.
O2 Sensor Codes P0137, P0138:
Now, when you go to replace them, just make sure you replace them with something that is within the OE spec of the realm. You can't just get a universal O2 sensor; it will never work. So with that code 138, they have been known to fail, especially in the downstream O2 sensors that have failure for heated sensors.
Liftgate:
The liftgate is another common problem with the Lexus RX350. Some owners have reported that the liftgate won't open or close properly, or that it opens and closes on its own. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty liftgate motor, a damaged liftgate latch, or a problem with the vehicle's electrical system.
AC Inoperative:
The air conditioning system is another common problem with the Lexus RX350. Some owners have reported that the AC won't blow cold air, or that it blows hot air intermittently. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a low refrigerant level, a faulty compressor, or a problem with the vehicle's electrical system.
Intermittent Issues with Lighting, Accessories, and Engine Starting:
Some owners have reported intermittent issues with lighting, accessories (radio, navigation, etc.), and even the engine being unable to start after sitting with the engine off but accessories running. Unfortunately, some of these problems are not known until they present themselves, such as the stability control failure. You’re likely to be unaware of until you are literally in the moment the system fails to activate, making you wonder if/when they might occur.
In summary, the Lexus RX330 is a reliable and high-quality vehicle, but like any other vehicle, it may develop issues as it racks up mileage. The most common problems with the Lexus RX330 include radiator issues, transmission shifting lag, car won't start, oil leaks, steering problems, battery failures, dashboard cracking, airbag sensor failure, electronic stability control, software update, O2 sensor codes, liftgate, and AC inoperative. If you own a Lexus RX330 and experience any of these problems, it is recommended to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and repair.
How many miles will a Lexus RX330 last?
Luckily, the Lexus RX has been rated highly when put to the test. 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!
Is RX 330 a good car?
Best car I've ever owned.
None have been better, although Acura's are a very close second. I got the car with 75K miles on it, drove it for 8 years, and just sold it with 307K miles on it. Very few problems over the years. Had to replace 2 timing belts, the radiator, alternator, and one wheel bearing.
What is a common issue with Lexus?
One of the most prevalent issues that plague Lexus cars is oil leakage. While this problem is not unique to Lexus vehicles, they seem to be particularly prone to premature leaks. Many Lexus owners report experiencing oil leaks as early as 8,000 miles into the car's life.
What is the most common problem with Lexus RX350?
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.
2011 Lexus Rx330 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Rx330 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Lexus Rx330 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2011 Lexus Rx330 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Lexus Rx330.
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-02-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY WIFE WAS STOPPED AT A LIGHT. THERE WERE TWO LANES. ONE GOING STRAIGHT AND THE OTHER TURNING RIGHT. SHE WAS TURNING RIGHT. WHEN THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN, BOTH HER AND THE CAR GOING STRAIGHT ADVANCED. A CAR COMING FROM ANOTHER DIRECTION, SWERVED PAST THE CAR GOING STRAIGHT AND HIT MY WIFE ON THE LEFT SIDE FRONT, AND THEN PUSHED HER INTO A TRAFFIC POLE IN THE MEDIAN OF THE STREET SHE WAS TURNING INTO. MY WIFE'S CAR WAS TOTALED AS A RESULT. THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED AND SHE SUFFERED A FRACTURED STERNUM, IN GREAT PAIN. WHEN I WENT TO THE BODYSHOP WHERE THE CAR WAS TAKEN, I SAW ANOTHER RX 330, SAME AMOUNT OF DAMAGE AND IT TO, DID NOT HAVE A DEPLOYED AIR BAG. THE EXPLANATION I RECEIVED FROM THE DEALER WAS, THAT AT THE FIRST IMPACT TO THE FRONT SIDE (AT THE HEADLIGHT), THAT IMPACT DAMAGED THE SENSORS TO THE AIRBAGS, AND WHEN IT THEN STRUCK HEAD ON, THE SENSORS WERE NOT FUNCTIONING TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAG. : IF THE SENSORS WERE COMPROMISED, WHY WOULD THEY NOT DEPLOY...ISN'T THAT THE PURPOSE OF AIR BAGS??? *TR
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2011 Lexus Rx330 problems:
Lexus RX330 Reliability and Common Problems - In The Garage ...
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Lexus RX330 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your Lexus RX330? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your Lexus RX330.
Known Battery Issues With Rx330 - 99 - 03 Lexus RX300 - Lexus ...
Nov 23, 2011 ... On 11/26/2011 at 12:46 AM, MDarsey said: This was the Second Battery. No Alternator Problems, and no short detected. The Battery has a 8 year ...
FINALLY SOLVED! P0171 and P0174 Codes!!!! - ClubLexus - Lexus ...
Jan 5, 2013 ... Common Problems That Trigger the P0171 and P0174 Code PCM software needs to be updated. Vacuum leaks (Intake Manifold Gaskets, vacuum hoses ...
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