2008 Lexus Rx400h 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 2008 Lexus Rx400h problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are common problems with the Lexus RX400h 2008:
- Braking Problems: Some owners have experienced braking issues with the RX400h. The regenerative braking system may require extra pressure on the brake pedal to engage fully, or there may be issues with the braking system not working correctly. This is a known issue in most hybrid braking systems, and a software upgrade or dealer inspection can often resolve the problem.
- Inverter Leaks: Another common problem is the inverter leaking coolant. Signs of this issue include lower liquid levels in the inverter coolant reservoir and a crusty pink substance around the inverter. Replacing the inverter can be expensive, but if the vehicle is under warranty, Lexus should cover the cost of repair.
- Battery Drain Issues: Owners have reported rapid battery discharge while the car is sitting, leading to the battery being dead after 4-5 days. This can be due to a parasitic drain, potentially caused by the multiplex body control module. Solutions include using a battery tender or having an auto-electric specialist diagnose and fix the issue.
- Paint and Trim Problems: Some owners have faced issues with paint fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking, as well as loose interior or exterior trim or moldings. Water pooling on the front floor during rain and cracked dashboards have also been reported.
These common problems highlight the importance of thorough inspections and maintenance when considering purchasing or owning a Lexus RX400h 2008.
What are the common problems with Lexus RX400h?
Lexus RX400h Common Problems and Solutions
- Rear seat rattle. Problem: Have you noticed a rattling noise coming from the rear seats? ...
- Braking problems. Problem: There have been several reports of braking problems with the RX400h. ...
- Leaking inverter. Problem: Have you noticed that the inverter is leaking on your RX400h?
How long does Lexus 400h hybrid battery last?
But generally, a Lexus hybrid battery can be expected to last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles. The good news is, the typical Lexus hybrid comes accompanied by a hybrid battery warranty that is good for 10 years or 150,000 miles.
Is the Lexus RX400h reliable?
Absolutely reliable and a great car to own/drive
Now in 2023 it has 174,000 miles. It still runs like new, handles well, and is very comfortable. I have done maintenance and just did the Timing belt, spark plugs, and CVT fluid change. Toyota replaced the inverter under a recall so no issues there.
How much does it cost to replace a battery in a Lexus RX400h?
Labor costs are estimated between $264 and $333 while parts are typically priced around $6,198. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed. For a more accurate estimate based on your location, use our Fair Price Estimator below.
2008 Lexus Rx400h car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Rx400h problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Lexus Rx400h vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Lexus Rx400h
The NHTSA has received 119 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Lexus Rx400h. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Lexus Rx400h vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- VIN: 2T2GK31U38C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Lexus RX350. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the passenger’s side air bag warning light remained illuminated, indicating that the passenger’s side air bag was deactivated. The contact stated that the air bag warning light remained illuminated with and without a front seat passenger seated in the vehicle. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 215,000.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-01
- VIN: 2T2GK31U08C
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: * Our 2008 Lexus RX 350 dashboard is cracking: areas of safety concern are the cracks around the ignition switch, the air bags, and the instrument panel. * There are cracks all around the ignition switch which places it in jeopardy of malfunctioning to include releasing dangerous fumes and dangerous fragments (scrapnel), and/or falling out. * The air bags are a grave concern as they may not deploy due to the cracks in the dashboard. * The instrument panel has a backup camera that may also be negatively impacted. There was a safety recall on these dashboards, and Lexus claimed that they were waiting on parts and that we would be contacted. We were never contacted by Lexus, and when we contacted them on several occasions, Lexus told us that they were not going to replace the dashboard. The cracks in my dashboard are extremely serious concerns for my family's safety, which is why this vehicle is only used if there's an in an emergency due to the safety concerns. We live in south Georgia, and the dashboard began cracking / melting as a result of heat and humidity. Lexus has refused to honor the agreement that it made in accordance with its "Warranty Enhancement Program." Our last case number with Lexus is [XXX] on [XXX], and we have not heard back from Lexus' vehicle protection. The numbers that we contacted were 800-448-1505 and 800-255-3987. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-10
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: See attached document for complaint
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2T2HK31U78C
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I put my 2008 Lexus in reverse and had my foot on the brakes the entire time as I was on an incline. Suddenly , without provocation, the car propelled backwards and as much as I pumped the brakes, the car continued to hurl backwards full speed. I crashed into another car in my driveway, and finally got the car to stop after suffering a lot of damage. Thank you.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-02
- VIN: 2T2HK31U78C
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: 1-wiper were replaced 2-tire wearing out replaced
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-22
- VIN: JTJHW31U482
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Lexus RX400H. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to respond and made an abnormal pumping and grinding sound. Additionally, an unknown beeping and buzzing alarm sounded. The contact stated that he depressed the brake pedal with both feet. The ABS, traction control, and the stabili-trak warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the ABS module needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-23
- VIN: 2T2HK31U18C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Complaint Details I had a recently cracked dashboard in my 2008 Lexus RX350. It was cracked over the entire dashboard. I knew of the warranty extension recall of this as to my letter I recieved in 2016. I took it in for service for this and of course at the time my dashboard was looked at had a tiny crack. And they pretty much said owell.. Of course now in 2023 it has been cracking for almost 2 years. I tolerated until I was told it's a safety issue if I were in a accident that the airbags deployed it could shatter all over in a million pieces. I'm disabled and elderly and don't need anymore problems. So I took it in to have it replaced and 2622.08 later to have it replaced. That's with a discount from the dealership. Are you kidding me Lexus??? I had it immediately replaced when I found out it was a big safety concern. Shame on Lexus saying it's a cosmetic problem and not covered. I spoke to Corporate and they told me they won't do anything for me and there's no higher ups and they won't refund my money. Shame on you. I'm demanding a full refund. This needs to be corrected for the cars out there that are still experiencing this problem. My dealership told me they had more cars coming in for the same repair. Sounds alot like Lexus is getting richer on an 800 dollar part. Don't even tell me it's labor intensified. My car was done is 2 hours. I will if I have to get a class action lawsuit if I don't get my refund. Just terrible to play around with people's safety!!! I have attached my letter and another attachment about safety. I also have my warranty paper they sent but can't upload it.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-05
- VIN: JTJHW31U282
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Sun roof exploded while driving. Safety is at risk as shards of glass come crashing down while driving. The only warning was a loud noise like a gun shot
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-19
- VIN: jtjhw31ux82
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My daughter was driving on the Freeway and the vehicle just went dead. She lost all power nothing would work. She was on a outside land and was able to get it off the road. She said it was really hard to do that and scared her very much. She said if she had been in the middle lane she would have not been able to get it off the road. We took it to our mechanic and he told us to take it to a dealer as they had the proper equipment to test the hybrid system. We dont have a lexus dealer in our town but we have a Toyota. We took it there and they told us it would be 170.00 to find the problem. They called us and had a list of things they recommended. My husband asked did you check the hybird system and they said yes they could find no problems. I called and talked to the gentelman and he said the tests they ran they could not find the problem. I asked him what we could do and he said they cant find the problem. I looked on the internet and many many people have the same problem. How could they not know what the problem was. This makes no sense to me. If your drining down the freeway and lose power this is a safety problem. Lots and Lots of the remarks were to report them to NHSTA so thats what I am doing. Thank You
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2T2GK31U78C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2008 Lexus RX 350. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH, the contact was crashed into by another vehicle on the driver's side door. The contact stated that the driver's side air bags did not deploy. The driver's side door and the driver's side front wheel and axle were broken. The front fender was also crushed by the impact. The contact suffered a 7-inch laceration on the left side back of his scalp near his left ear and going across the back of his head. The contact's right leg was bruised around his kneecap. The contact was transported by ambulance to the emergency room. The contact stated that police were on the scene and filed a report. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to an impound lot. The contact stated that the vehicle was declared a total loss. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 232,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-23
- VIN: JTJHW31U982
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: While driving in local conditions (traveling 20 mph) the brakes stopped working partially (about 90% of braking power was lost) and a message on the dash board show check vsc, after pulling aside it turning off the engine. I inspected the brakes in the engine and at the wheels for leaks. no leaks. upon restarting the car all was normal again.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-10
- VIN: 2T2HK31U98C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: UNKNOWN - The dashboard plastic is cracking and pieces have broken off. While it may be deemed to be a cosmetic issue, the front passenger side airbag sits underneath the dashboard where the cracking has occurred. The concern here is that when the airbag deploys, the dashboard will fragment, ejecting plastic shrapnel towards the vehicle occupants, exacerbating any potential injuries.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-01
- VIN: JTJHW31UX82
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Vehicle brakes are inconsistent. The ABS system also locks up periodically, and fail to engage at other times. Extremely dangerous to drive. They are also very noisy. I contacted both the local Lexus dealership and national number, but they refused to fix them under warranty. Lexus DID offer an extended warranty in 2016 or so, but since I was the second owner of the vehicle, I never received notification of the extended warranty that went through Dec. 31 2017. In September, 2020, I could no longer deal with the brakes, so I bought a new ABS actuator from the Lexus dealership and installed it myself. It was straight forward and took less than an hour to install and bleed the brake lines per Lexus instructions. Less than 16 months later, the ABS system is failing again. Lexus told me that the part warranty is only one year, and refused to cover the expense to fix.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-02
- VIN: 2T2GK31U48C
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: JULY 2021 at 69568 miles on 2008 Lexus RX350 Brake Booster was changed by Lexus of Orange Park, Florida, for $1652.97. Situation/Discrepancy: After normal stop, Brake Light would illuminate and brakes would mysteriously release and vehicle would start rolling forward! After several brake pumping actions vehicle would stop. Brake Booster was leaking internally! Corrective Action: Replace Power Brakes Booster.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-13
- VIN: JTJHW31U682
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Lexus RX400H. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound with the VSC message displayed and the ABS and traction control warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle made the same abnormal sound for 15 minutes after the vehicle was turned off. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the ABS accumulator pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that the extended warranty had expired. The failure mileage was approximately 138,140. Consumer stated extended warranty program for the defective part but that program expired in 2018. When the ABS actuator pump fails, it stops regulating and maintaining hydraulic pressure in the brake lines which can lead to brake failure. No recall was ever issued despite the fact that a failure of the braking system.
ENGINE,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-28
- VIN: JTJHW31U182
- Components: ENGINE,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Lexus RX400H. The contact stated while driving approximately 75 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and the check engine and the Hybrid system maintenance warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving to her destination. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer and where the vehicle was being serviced. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 89,320.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-17
- VIN: JTJHW31U182
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: UNKNOWN suspect brake actuator failure. Brake noise when stepping on pedal at a stop.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-04
- VIN: 2T2GK31U18C
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2020 Had to replace transmission at 90,000 miles. In Sept. 2021 - Window seals are melting all over the windows. Will have to get them all replaced as a driving hazzard to even see out the windows. Now the tinting is coming off from the windows sticking.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-21
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JTJHK31U682
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Lexus RX350. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, she saw smoke coming from the front passenger seat. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact pulled into a parking lot and parked the vehicle until the smoke vanished. The dealer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that they could not assist. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that an agent of the Federal Department of Agriculture would inspect the vehicle and would send them a report. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the same dealer and was inspected on February 10, 2021 by a Federal Department of Agriculture agent who also disconnected the heating system of the front passenger seat. The contact stated that the manufacturer had not followed up with her since then. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 160,691.
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-01
- VIN: Jtjhw31u082
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: 2008 Lexus RX 400H Faulty ABS Actuator yes my car is available for inspection upon request . This is a known problem on this vehicle there is 100s of complaints on same issue with the same cars Lexus is neglecting responsibility for this faulty and very dangerous hazard , this part has been faulty for years with out my knowledge and now it’s gotten worse all the lights related to my brake system is on and the brakes seem to have a mind of there own they break real hard at times and times I have to slam on them to break . yes I have had the car checked and the dealer told me that there was a extended warranty issued on this part but that it’s expired. they also gave me a quote $2,100 just for the part no labor that’s crazy, this is not a extended warranty matter this should be recalled there is thousands of people driving this cars with out knowing that there breaks could give out anytime . I hope that Lexus considers the seriousness of this matter and not wait on till lives are lost do to neglecting. they took effort years ago in extending the warranty on the part but there is thousands of owners like my self that were not aware or notified of this extension , also this is a malfunction that is not noticeable and can happen at anytime especially while you driving .
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-01
- VIN: JTJHW31U982
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Lexus RX400H. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the ABS warning light would illuminate, and a grinding noise was present while depressing the brake pedal. On multiple occasions while driving at very slow speeds the vehicle abruptly stopped. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the ABS actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 75,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-28
- VIN: 2T2GK31U08C
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: In 2020 entire dash sticky to touch, and cracking of dash 2021. VSC light on/off.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-24
- VIN: 2t2hk31u98c
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Complete DASH board is cracked spanning from Drivers side to Passengers Side including Cracks on the AIRBAGS on both sides
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-19
- VIN: jtjgw31u382
- Components: HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Lexus RX400H. The contact stated that while reversing out a parking space at a low rate of speed, the vehicle stalled as the hybrid system warning message illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact was able to walk to an automotive parts store and purchased a new battery which he replaced in his vehicle. The contact was able to drive to a gas station and soon after leaving the gas station, the vehicle stalled again as the same warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle after multiple attempts and had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic. The mechanic linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V396000 (Hybrid Propulsion System) and referred him to a local dealer. The contact called a dealer and was informed that his vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 268,000
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-02
- VIN: 2T2HK31U28C
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2008 LEXUS 350 RX. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO A OIL LINE DEFECT. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER WOULD NOT REPAIR THE VEHICLE UNTIL IT EXHIBITED A FAILURE. THE OWNER SUSPECTED THE VEHICLE WOULD FAIL IN THE FUTURE. THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONSUMER TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS.THE CONSUMER DECLINED.
2008 Lexus Rx400h recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2008 Lexus Rx400h.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM: INVERTER
- Summary: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid vehicles manufactured February 16, 2005, through July 29, 2010; and model year 2006-2008 Lexus RX400h vehicles manufactured February 23, 2005, through December 2, 2008. The Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module may contain transistors that have higher operating temperatures than the solder can support and the transistors may be heat damaged by the solder. If this occurs, various warning lamps, including the malfunction indicator lamp, slip indicator light, brake system warning light, and master warning light, will be illuminated on the instrument panel.
- Consequence: The vehicle may enter a fail-safe/limp-home mode that limits the drivability of the vehicle. It is possible that the hybrid system will shut down while the vehicle is being driven, causing the vehicle to stall unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the IPM free of charge. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331. Vehicles that had their IPM replaced under recall 11V-342 are not affected by this campaign.
Negative 2008 Lexus Rx400h car reviews
Positive 2008 Lexus Rx400h car reviews
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In May 2023, I moved to central Florida in the US and began my search for a car that was affordable, stylish, and had all the creature comforts I was used to, including a good air conditioning system, a sunroof, and power everything. In Australia, I had a 2004 RX330 AWD Luxury Sport version that had taken me on many interstate road trips on rural roads in all kinds of weather conditions. The V6 engine always roared to life when I needed it, and it had done an impressive 236,000+ kms/140,000 miles before I had to say goodbye. After crossing the Pacific Ocean, I began my hunt for a car in Florida, taking into consideration where to buy from, such as auctions, A-grade dealers, B-grade dealers, private sellers, mechanics, etc. I found my car at McGrath Volvo Cars of Fort Myers, and my salesperson, Alex, was excellent. The management kept their word, and even though the service department had not serviced or done up the car on the day I went to pick it up, Alex organised everything and made sure I received a check for my accommodation expenses. The car was a crystal white pearl 2008 RX400h with 185,000 miles on it, and it had only one owner. The Car Fax report had its service history, and it had been mostly serviced at Toyota/Lexus dealerships. On day two, the service department gave it fresh oil and a filter and fixed a broken oil plate. Finally, Alex brought the car to the parking lot, and I was ready to drive it out of there.We were both surprised to see liquid rubber dropping from the registration license plate light fixture onto the rear bumper. However, I was too tired to worry about it and told him not to worry either. I had a vague notion that some careless mechanic in the service area had kept a hot object near the rubber or heated up something next to it. It was annoying, but not a show stopper. The detailers had done a great job cleaning up the rear seat, which I had been a bit concerned about due to some black residue all over it. Now the interior of the car looked clean enough, and I thanked Alex for their hard work. The steering listed a bit to the right, and I reckon it is because the front end is shod with two different brands of tires - Good Years on the left and Bridgestones on the right. The left-hand (driver) side headlight had water droplets in it, but I was just glad it wasn't clouded over. It worked fine for two days, then stopped working one rainy night. I considered replacing it with aftermarket stuff, but those were not functionally good enough. As I mulled over options, the car must have felt something for me - the light magically started working, water droplets and all. It still works to this moment and has an excellent beam. As expected, the dashboard warnings started popping up one by one as I drove back to the Orlando region. Despite this, the car seemed to be doing okay and returned around 22 mpg on my drive back. It averaged around that for the next few days, during which we drove around a LOT. We were still staying at a hotel and were glad we had a car to go and find my partner a car of her own as well as find a rental house to lease. None of this is easy when you've just arrived in the country, have no American ID, bank account, or credit score. But not having to pay for taxi cabs was a good step forward.As we happily searched for her car and a house, I used a reliable OBD scanning tool and discovered that the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor was dirty and that at least one of the TPMS sensors had a dead battery. The dealership service mechanics had temporarily resolved the TPMS error by selecting the second tire set option in the car, which confuses the car because it assumes that the lack of transponder signal is due to the installation of winter tires. However, I wasn't too worried because I had correctly set all the tire pressures. In the following days, I replaced the engine air filter (the one in there was dirty), installed a fresh cabin a/c filter, and cleaned the mass air flow (MAF) sensor with a can of high-quality cleaning fluid from eBay. I wiped the leather seats and treated them nicely with some Maguere treatment spray. They look great now! Last week, I took her to a hybrid specialist for a tune-up, which included fresh spark plugs, brake check/adjustment, a full scan of the hybrid system, and an overall health check. The mechanic praised the car and assured me that I needn't worry about either the hybrid system or the mechanics. She already runs like a dream, and even the original music system sounds great 👍🏽 I've driven around 3000 miles so far, and I get around 26 miles/gallon, 11 km/l, or 9 litres/100 kms in mixed city/highway/stop-and-go traffic conditions. Mine has the navigation screen, which means I get a lovely animation of the hybrid system in action, or a graphic of how many kW the regenerative braking produces, or other A/C, sound system, and service information on the reverse camera screen. I got a pressure washer and gave her a couple of good washes. She looks great now, and most people won't believe she's done the mileage she has and is fifteen years old!I took my car for an alignment check to ensure that the little right tilt on the steering was due to the different tires at different levels of wear. This week, I am getting a pair of brand new performance tyres on the front and I will take her back to double check the alignment. Since my partner got her own car, a Toyota RAV4 hybrid, and we found a house, the car is driven a little less. The amazing air conditioning worked wonders on hot days when we had to park the car in the sun and do stuff around the place. I will continue to enjoy nice sunset drives around these roads with the sunroof open, the windows down and good rock music blasting through the wind. Lexuses are built solid and beautiful, like 1930s Rolls Royces or 1960s Mercedes Benzes. This one is no exception and I will keep her as long as she wants to stay with me. I might even change the busted TPMS sensor one day!
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My driving experience in the Lexus RX400h AWD was truly extraordinary! The vehicle came with all the bells and whistles that one would expect from Lexus, making it exceptionally comfortable, fun, and easy to drive. Even though this is my 2nd SUV and 1st hybrid, it is by far superior to my previous 16.5 MPG Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer. What's truly remarkable is the outstanding power performance when you need it, and the equally outstanding fuel economy in stop and go city traffic. Additionally, the 400h is very quiet in hybrid mode, which has heightened my situational awareness when people are nearby on foot, as it's almost as quiet as an electric golf cart.
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On the road, this vehicle is a master. It has complete grip on the road and is very quiet, except for a small amount of tire noise. However, the variable transmission system may not provide a smooth takeoff from a stop.
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The car is very trustworthy and dependable. It still looks good and I love driving her!
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Your first luxury SUV sounds like a great ride! It may not have all the bells and whistles of your wife's 2013 GS 350, but it still drives great, is easy to maintain, and gets great mileage. It's always important to keep up with regular maintenance, like oil and filter changes and tire rotations every 5,000 miles, as well as any other factory recommended maintenance items. I loved hearing about your conversation with the Director of Aviation and Chief Pilot of a well-known German Automobile Company. It's great to hear that Lexus has such a strong reputation for quality control. It's no wonder you traded it in for a 2017 Lexus RX 450h with extra updated features! Thanks for sharing your experience with us.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Lexus Rx400h problems:
Common issues on 2007 RX400H - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
Dec 28, 2017 ... Common issues on 2007 RX400H ... 1. Oil cooler line pipes made of rubber and causing catastrophic failure when they failed. 2. VVTi lines made of ...
2008 Lexus RX400h Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Problem with your 2008 Lexus RX400h? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2008 Lexus RX400h.
2008 Lexus RX 400h - Battery issues - Maintenance/Repairs - Car ...
Jul 20, 2021 ... You probably have a parasitic drain somewhere. It's pulling power from the battery when the car's turned off. It could be something as simple as ...
Buying a 2008 RX400h, what should I be asking? : r/Lexus
Mar 23, 2023 ... Our current car is having transmission problems and we've decided on a 2008 RX400h with 107,000 miles as a replacement. My mechanic had two ...
Common 2008 Lexus RX400h Transmission Problems - Q&A
Aug 14, 2021 ... The most common reason for this code is a failed inverter. This is a part of the transmission. The cost to replace the inverter with converter ...
Other years of Lexus Rx400h
Are you having problems with your 2008 Lexus Rx400h?
Alfonzo Murray 2024-02-22
It's disappointing that the new Lexus doesn't live up to its promised gas mileage. The hybrid version only gets around 17/22, and I'm curious if the non-hybrid version gets even worse gas mileage. Additionally, the battery and engine can be quite noisy, and the CVT is not very smooth. It's like calling a dude ranch a luxury hotel - it may have nice beds, but it still smells like a ranch. I'm also not thrilled with the lockout function on the nav and Bluetooth. If I could do it over, I would have saved 15 grand and gone with the 350 or the Acura RDX. Overall, I feel a bit foolish for choosing the hybrid option.