Lexus Rx450h problems
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Lexus Rx450h model years
Common Lexus Rx450h problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Lexus RX450h, common problems with this car include:
- MP3/Audio Player Problem:
- Some owners report issues with the MP3/audio player cutting out when driving over speed bumps or rough roads. This problem is often related to the audio unit mounting. To address this, the mounting may need fixing or replacement, and the audio unit re-fitted to resolve the cutting out issue.
- Rear Window Wiper Problem:
- A rattling sound from the rear of the vehicle, especially noticeable at low speeds with the window open, can indicate a problem with the rear window wiper mechanism. This rattling noise occurs when the faulty wiper hits against the rear spoiler. To fix this issue, the wiper mechanism needs replacement.
- Alloy Wheel Corrosion:
- The alloy wheels of the RX450h are prone to premature corrosion and excessive wear. Inspecting each wheel for corrosion and wear is essential. Wheels affected by corrosion may require refurbishment to restore their appearance, along with the removal of any corrosion present.
- Non-Engine Electrical Faults:
- Owners have reported issues with non-engine electrics like the media system and windows. While specific problems vary, electrical faults can be diagnosed by an auto electrician, with repair costs averaging around £67.38. It's crucial to address these electrical issues promptly to ensure the proper functioning of these components.
These common problems with the Lexus RX450h highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any emerging issues to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
What problems does the Lexus RX 450h have?
RX 450h models are fairly heavy and often develop suspension problems. Some owners report leaks in the system, while others report the compressor wears out quickly and has to be replaced.
How reliable is a Lexus RX 450h?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 7% for the Lexus RX450h, compared to an average of 11% for luxury midsize SUVs and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
What are the best years for Lexus RX 450h?
The Best Model Years to Buy a Lexus RX 450h
With the 2020, you would only pay, on average, 72% of the price as new, with 83% of the vehicle's useful life remaining. The 2021 and 2019 model years are also attractive years for the RX 450h, and provide a relatively good value.
What is the life expectancy of a Lexus RX 450h?
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!
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Rx450h years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Rx450h cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Rx450h model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Rx450h model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Rx450h years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Rx450h car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Rx450h , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Unknown or other problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Rx450h vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Rx450h model years
A total of 32 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 Rx450h model years
There were a total of 3 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 Rx450h model years
There were a total of 20 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 206 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Rx450h . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Rx450h vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lexus Rx450h 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2T2ZZMCA9JC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 1. At [XXX] on [XXX], I was pulling into my gym's parking lot, when I stepped on the break to park my car, instead of stopping, the car accelerates rapidly and crashed through the other side of the sidewalk where there were light pole and cement walls, throwing me forward and backward with seat belt on, I was in total shock! 2. My insurance sent a field inspector to the body shop 2X in hope to repair my car but ended up declaring it a Total Loss. 3. Lexus said they would send a field tech to get the EDR (Event Data Recorder) data from my 2018 Lexus RX350 within 30 days, but the results won't be available for 30-45 days after that. Lexus's slow response to this accident concerns and disappoints me b/c it was a serious crash that Lexus should treat it seriously and promptly. 4. The disbelief of a 'young' car with only 12297 miles could have issues like this puzzled me and drove me to do a lot of online research, then I came across this site [XXX] which contains an article titled '10 Common Problems of A Lexus RX350'. Problem #5 described exactly what had happened to me: 'ONE RECURRING PROBLEM THIS CAR HAS IS THAT THE SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS SEVERELY. THIS TYPICALLY HAPPENES WHEN THE DRIVER IS TRYING TO PARK THE VEHICLE. REPORTS PAINT THE SAME PICTURES REPEATEDLY: THE DRIVER IS PULLING INTO A PARKING LOT, THEY PUSH THE BREAK PEDAL, AND INSTEAD OF STOPPING, THE CAR ACELERATES RAPIDLY, WHICH RESULTS IN A CRASH." Based on this article, it seems that Lexus should have issued a recall, but no! 5. The strange thing was that NO airbags were exploded/activated, yet the vehicle was damaged to beyond repair, it makes me wonder if there was an issue with the airbags too. If this incident had occurred at an intersection, I dare not imagine the outcome...I could have been killed or critically injured along with other innocent people on the road. I am very traumatized by the whole experience and sadly, the feeling seems to have gotten worse as time goes. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Lexus Rx450h 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 2T2BK1BA7FC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine cut out suddenly while driving 45 MPH, followed by Battery Light, Check Engine Light, and Power Steering Light forcing hazardous emergency stop. Engine would no longer crank, and car had to be towed to nearest Lexus Certified Repair Facility. Technician scanned the system and found four Codes: P0335, P1603, P1604, P1605. After bore-scoping front three cylinders, technician tried to turn motor by hand and was unable to. The motor turned in reverse, but not forward. Technician removed oil pan to find pieces of valve spring broken and pieces of the piston rings and piston fragments from one of the rear three cylinders. Motor will need to be replaced or completely rebuilt after only 133,458 miles and regular servicing.
Lexus Rx450h 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 2T2BZMCA8GC
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Car has a continuous gas smell after start up. When a/c or heat is turned off the car cabin smells of gaslione. I have taken to the car to lexus dealership repeatedly and have been advice car operates as intended. There is also a hissing noise coming from the rear driverside tire area near the gas tank.
Lexus Rx450h 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: JTJDGKCA9J2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I am writing to raise a serious concern regarding a issue with my 2018 Lexus RX450hL involving the brake actuator. Since purchasing the vehicle at 63,000 miles, I have noticed hissing, clicking, and squeaking noises when applying the brakes. As the mileage increased to 83,000, these noises have worsened, becoming unbearable. In addition, I am experiencing a shaky driver-side mirror and a rusting hood latch, both of which present safety concerns. For a vehicle under 5 years old , I believe these problems do not reflect the quality I expected, particularly given the premium price I paid. According to Lexus' Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #L-SB-0032-23 Rev, issued in October 2023, which addresses squawk or knock noises from the engine compartment when the brake pedal is pressed or released, affecting models like the RX450hL. My vehicle exhibits symptoms similar to those described in the TSB. The vehicle was regularly maintained by the previous owner at Lexus of Thousand Oaks and Woodland Hills. Despite this, the major part like brake actuator has failed prematurely. Given Lexus' reputation as a luxury brand, it is unacceptable that such a critical component would fail before the vehicle is 5 years old or has reached 100,000 miles. The combination of the brake actuator defect, the shaky mirror, and the rusting hood latch is disappointing, especially for a vehicle of this caliber. When I initially contacted Lexus Customer Service, I was also dealing with rusting parts and a failing brake booster. Lexus of Cerritos provided a repair estimate of around $5,000 for brake actuator. I was advised to reach out to Lexus Customer Service after my request for a good faith repair was denied due to the inability to obtain the complete maintenance history. However, I have since confirmed with the previous owner and Lexus that the vehicle was regularly serviced. I am also aware that Lexus has issued brake actuator-related recalls for several models.
Lexus Rx450h 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
- VIN: 2T2BC1BA3FC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 2015 Lexus RX450H with less than 60,000 miles Electronic Power Steering Motor needs repair or replacement. The Electronic Steering Motor has an internal 3 piece star-shaped green plastic gear in between two metal pieces used as a bushing/damper. That green plastic gear has become dry, hard, dehydrated, and has crumbled inside the electronic power steering motor. Diagnostic indicators include rattling and vibrations emanating from the steering column that sounds like something is broken inside the steering assembly. Which it apparently is. Moreover, I am particularly concerned about the implications of this denial. The faulty component in the electronic power steering system poses a significant risk, including the potential for complete loss of steering control. This not only jeopardizes my safety but could also lead to further damage to my vehicle or even bodily injury. Given these circumstances, I believe it is imperative that this matter be addressed with urgency.
Lexus Rx450h 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: 2T2BK1BA8FC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: It has the same engine failure problem as the recall for 2022 and 2023 vehicles. The engine just stalls when it wants with no check engine light or error codes. Then restarts just fine when put in park. Lexus repair could not even find a issue. Have documents to prove it.
Lexus Rx450h 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2T2BK1BA3BC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Lexus RX350. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH the front driver seat heater was activated and moments later smoke and flames were present coming from the center console of the vehicle. After stopping and exiting the vehicle the fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the flames. During the incident, the vehicle was destroyed and later towed away by the insurance company. No injuries were reported and no police or fire reports were taken. The cause of the fire was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not contacted regarding the incident. The failure mileage was 150,000.
Lexus Rx450h 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-08
- VIN: 2T2ZZMCA5HC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My car has an oil leak from the timing chain cover gasket that was discovered by an independent mechanic at 37,465 miles. The dealer confirmed the leak on June 14, 2024 during a recall replacement of the fuel pump. The repair is very expensive and the car is no longer under warranty. This is the second occurrence of this same issue. The first occurred in April 2021 at 24,192 miles and was repaired by the dealer under warranty. There were no warning lamps or messages of the problem but there was oil on the ground where I park. The car is available for inspection. An internet search confirms that this is a known and common problem with the Lexus RX350 (and specifically the 2017 model) for many owners with some occurring more than once as in my case.
Lexus Rx450h 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-03
- VIN: 2T2BZMCA1HC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I bought this car in March 2020. We took it to the Kingsport, TN Lexus dealer Sept. 14, 2020 for several warranty issues and a recall factory interior front door handle replacement. Today, 9/3/24 the front driver’s side interior door handle broke and the door cannot be opened from inside the car. Called local dealer who said that it was guaranteed for 12 months or 12,000 miles. I find this completely unacceptable. I am [XXX] and have driven cars for over 40 years and I have never had a car handle break. For this handle to basically last four years is unacceptable and unsafe for any Lexus driver. At this point I question as to whether the repair was actually made. If in fact replaced, I am shocked by the lack of quality in a repair that was to have fixed a serious issue. Driving a car when you cannot open the door is not something I recommend to anyone! I have called Lexus National customer service and they have opened a case. I do plan to have this repaired and I do not plan to pay for what I consider to be very low quality part replacement. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Lexus Rx450h 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-01
- VIN: 2T2BGMCAXHC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When checking the emergency SOS function in my car I found that it did not work. I called Lexus support and was told that the following safety systems would no longer be operative: Lexus Enform Safety Connect including Automatic Collision Notification; Enhanced Roadside Assistance; Emergency Assistance Button and Stolen Vehicle Locator; Lexus Enform Remote including Remote Engine Start/Stop, Door Lock/Unlock, Vehicle Finder, Guest Driver Monitor, Vehicle Status and Alerts, Key Fob Remote Start, and Integration with Alexa and The Google Assistant; Lexus Enform Destination Assist including 24-hour live response center agent; Lexus Enform Service Connect including Vehicle Health Report, Vehicle Alerts, and Maintenance Alerts; These include safety systems that I rely on, especially when driving on interstate highways, and were included when I purchased my car. I had no warning that the services would cease to function in October of this year. Lexus states that these systems will no longer function because telecommunications providers will no longer support 3G service. This is certainly a safety issue for me and for other drivers and I believe that Lexus should be required to modify the hardware/software in these vehicles to function in a 4G/5G environment. Lexus representatives state that Lexus has no plans to correct these safety issues. I am requesting that NHTSA review this matter as a highway safety issue.
Lexus Rx450h 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-01
- VIN: 2T2BGMCA9GC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Upon parking after 20-mile drive, severe leak of transmission oil from transmission oil cooler area, no warning messages/lights or fault codes present. No evidence of leak at starting point for drive, was sudden failure internal to transmission cooler with no evidence of impact/vibration damage or corrosion; failure was perhaps at welds of fins to tubing. Leaking oil creates fire and slip hazard, lack of any kind of warning to driver would have allowed continued driving until transmission failed except for luck that this was short trip. Vehicle has never been damaged in a crash, has been carefully inspected and maintained since purchase new. This is not a wear item and should never fail without external damage or corrosion, certainly not at 45,000 miles. Difficult to believe that this anything other than a manufacturing defect on this early production (VIN ending 002034) vehicle. Repaired by Lexus dealer with Lexus covering half of cost as “goodwill” (cost to me at ~$1,050 incl. towing), although dealer attempted to return vehicle without having reinstalled air duct and lower shroud.
Lexus Rx450h 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 2T2BGMCA0GC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The hood latch and cable malfunctioned three times in one year. Once in January 2024 (I replaced the latch); once in July 2024 (the dealer recommended to eventually replace the cable, but was able to fix it); and most recently on [XXX] (the dealer identified the cable was faulty and needed to be replaced). The hood would close but not all the way and the hood release had no tension. There was prior warning or symptoms prior to the hood lock failure. All the records for this is with the service department of Pohanka Lexus in Chantilly, VA. I attached the most recent service visit. I took it to the Lexus dealer service center each time. I am getting it fixed this weekend by another service shop (because Lexus charges too much). This was extremely dangerous because if the hood is not secure, it could open at any time while driving and cause an accident, especially at high speeds. There is the potential that if the hood does not lock when closed after it opens, that it could possibly fly open while the car is in motion. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Lexus Rx450h 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-17
- VIN: 2T2ZZMCA1HC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 235/65r18 tire. I was driving on the highway and all of a sudden it was a loud noise and immediate tire noise. I struggled to slow the vehicle down and pull to the side of the road The tire is absolutely destroyed both on the inside and the outside side walls of the tire. I could have had a horrible accident because the car was completely out of control when the tire blew
Lexus Rx450h 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-15
- VIN: 2T2ZZMCA4GC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Good Afternoon, This is in relation to Customer Support Program (20LE02) - Rear Inside Door Handle May Become Inoperative. The Rear right inside door handle of my Lexus 350 became inoperative recently, but I never received a notice regarding 20LE02.
Lexus Rx450h 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 2T2ZZMCA5KC
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My vehicle has an intermittent check engine light along with an ICS malfunction code that pops up on the dashboard. The car doesn’t want to turn on after every gas fill up. After taking my car to a couple of independent shops, they determined that the issue with the car was the high pressure fuel pump. The suggested, I take it to the dealer as there was TSB bulletin on it. Furthermore I still had the letter from Lexus stating the issue. The local dealership refused to do the work and suggested other work after charging a huge amount for the car inspection. Lexus Corp wouldn’t help on the matter. There are 4 other complaints on this same issue and the dealers and the Plexus Corp are getting away with not calling this an actual recall because the government hasn’t stepped in.
Recalls Lexus Rx450h
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Lexus Rx450h.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lexus Rx450h 2016
- Report Received Date: 2018-01-31
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016 Toyota Prius and Lexus RX 350, RX 350 F Sport, RX 450h F Sport and RX 450h vehicles and 2015-2016 Lexus NX 200T, NX Turbo and NX 300h vehicles. The air bag pressure sensors and/or the acceleration sensors may fail causing the side/curtain shield air bags and/or the front air bags to not deploy in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: If the air bags fail to deploy in a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the sensors as necessary based on their serial numbers, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 12, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are JLA, J0F.
- Model: Lexus Rx450h 2016
- Report Received Date: 2016-02-01
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:KNEE BOLSTER
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Lexus RX350 and RX450h vehicles manufactured November 16, 2015, to December 23, 2015. Due to an improper weld, the gas needed to inflate the driver's knee air bag may escape from the inflator.
- Consequence: A defective inflator may increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the knee air bag assembly, free of charge. The recall began March 7, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is GLA.
Latest negative Lexus Rx450h car reviews
Latest positive Lexus Rx450h car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2019
I'm glad to hear that you love everything about the vehicle! It's a shame that there isn't a digital speed odometer though.
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Vehicle year: 2013
Your 2013 RX450h sounds like a fantastic car! It's great to hear that you plan on keeping it for as long as possible. The car came fully loaded with every possible option, which must make driving and owning it a dream. The mileage is fantastic, averaging 30 plus on the highway and 29 in the city, and it's great that you can use regular gas. I think some people may not know how to drive a hybrid properly, as I've seen some complaints about the mileage. However, you have some great tips for getting the most out of your car's fuel efficiency. It's also great to hear that you've found a cheaper way to service your car at Toyota, and that the tires and brakes have lasted so long. The 12 speaker audio sounds amazing, and it's great that your friends love riding in the rear seats. It's clear that you take great care of your car, and it still looks new even after 11 years. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2010
I'm currently getting an average of 28mpg with 5,000 miles on the car. During a recent vacation, I drove through the mountains with a loaded car and got about 25mpg, but on normal driving around town, I've been able to get around 30mpg. When I decided to buy this car, I had high expectations, and I'm happy to say that it has exceeded them. The ride quality is exceptional, and the car is very comfortable. It also has enough technical features to keep me entertained on long drives. Although it's not a sports car, the handling is very good for its size, and the engine and CVT transmission are a perfect match. Living in a dark area, I find the adaptive headlights to be extremely helpful and bright at night.
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Vehicle year: 2015
Hi there! I noticed that you're interested in a rare car that's in demand.
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Vehicle year: 2015
Hey there! Have you noticed that your car is accelerating slowly?
Are you having problems with your Lexus Rx450h?
Monty Ruecker 2024-11-21
Vehicle year: 2013
The fuel economy of the hybrid version is disappointing, falling well below the EPA estimates. The design of the back seats is poor, with a large gap that poses a safety hazard and is unsightly. Additionally, the navigation/computer system has limited functionality when the vehicle is in motion. The windshield wipers/washer also have poor coverage of the front windshield, and it is not possible to close off outside air when the defroster is engaged. These issues detract from an otherwise well-designed vehicle.
Brody Stracke 2024-10-18
Vehicle year: 2010
This SUV has a great exterior and looks impressive on the lot. Although, the performance is not up to par even after shifting into S-Sport. The car feels quite heavy, which is typical of luxury cars, and lacks power. During my day drive around town, I only got 22.5 mpg, which is not ideal for a used car priced at $19,000 (especially when compared to the regular RX priced at $9,000). The radio and controls are a bit outdated and difficult to navigate while driving. However, this car may be a good fit for those who prefer a less powerful engine (perfect for retirement, perhaps?). I also tested the LS 430 and appreciated the ride, but ultimately did not purchase it due to an issue with the trunk and the car being overpriced.
Sigurd Leffler 2024-10-06
Vehicle year: 2016
Great luxury interiors! However, despite the $55K plus price ticket, there seems to be not enough sound suppression for road noise in the cabin. Additionally, the exterior front design may be a bit too exaggerated, which takes away from the class of the vehicle.
Rico Kassulke 2024-10-05
Vehicle year: 2019
This car performs similarly to a Civic despite having only 4 cylinders. Although I experienced some issues with the emission filter during the first weekend, the service team attributed it to an overfilled gas tank, which I find hard to believe. Additionally, the car keeps beeping and asking me to clean the sensors in the rain, even though the car is clean. The navigation system and menus could use some improvement, and there has already been a software recall. However, I am confident that these issues will be resolved, and I am looking forward to enjoying this car in the future.
Henry Sawayn 2024-09-27
Vehicle year: 2019
I have owned four Lexus vehicles, and while the first three were great and built to last, I have encountered some issues with my 2017 RX450h. However, I am confident in Lexus' ability to address these issues and improve their vehicles. While I have experienced some problems, I believe that Lexus is still a reliable and high-quality brand. I hope to see improvements in future models.