Which Lexus Rx 350 Years to Avoid and Why? (Explained)
The Lexus RX 350 is a popular Lexus vehicle. The ride is pretty pleasant and serene, it is also intriguing enough for an SUV with ample room for the vehicle’s size, and great passenger capacity.
Of course, they aren’t all perfect, and there are a few Lexus RX 350 models to avoid.
The major complaints are about the RX 350 from 2007 and 2008. Damaged or worn-out elements in the Lexus RX350 have produced drivability difficulties.
The 2016 and 2017 models have had an uptick in issues, however, both years are still far improved from 2007 in terms of vehicle performance and customer comfort.
Keep reading to know more about the Lexus RX 350 Years and make a proper decision about whether or not to purchase one.
Lexus RX 350 Years to Avoid (List of Years)
The Lexus RX 350 has been on the market since 2007, and it, like many other Lexus vehicles produced at the time, had some issues with its first introduction.
Engine failure failed transmission, faulty rain sensor, cracking dashboard, shift lag, power steering rack leaks, oil leakage, and higher repair costs are the main reason to avoid the following model years
Avoid the following Lexus RX 350 years if you’re looking for a used car:
- 2007 Lexus RX 350
- 2008 Lexus RX 350
- 2010 Lexus RX 350
- 2016 Lexus RX 350
- 2017 Lexus RX 350
In all, these models have received over 1000 complaints. These model years feature a slew of problems that have destroyed the cars’ internal components, causing users to overspend on repairs.
2007 Lexus RX 350 Problems:
The most complaints are about the 2007 Lexus RX 350. Common problems include engine failure, rack, and pinion leaking, massive oil leaking, and water pump leaking. $1,600 in repair expenses for rack and pinion leaks, and $2,500 in average replacement costs for water pump leakage.
According to one of the owners, the oil cooler line on the Lexus RX 350 broke, and all of the oil was drained from the car within one mile, and the engine exploded.
It’s unreliable due to steering issues and steering wheel wobble at highway speeds. Until the fluid began to flow out, the dealer failed to diagnose the problem.
2008 Lexus RX 350 Problems:
If you’ve had your eye on a 2008 Lexus RX 350, you might want to reconsider. According to Car Complaints, this model year may be the worst owing to the high number of complaints and average maintenance prices.
This model includes multiple problems like problems, shift lagging, and power steering rack leaking. The cracking on the dashboard is uncontrollable.
After just 97000 miles, the 2008 Lexus RX 350 had a power steering fluid leak, necessitating the replacement of the power steering pump as well as the steering rack and pinion component, which cost over $2000.
2010 Lexus RX 350 Problems:
This model has several problems with engine failure, which spread to other components and frequently necessitate replacement. A major oil leak and a cooling issue plague this model.
Paint discoloration, and door rattling, are other common issues. Owners reported rattling on the driver’s side, in the front hood, especially when the temperature dropped below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The sound goes away once a car is parked in a parking lot in full light for a while.
Ac/heater problem is another common concern. Passenger-side air conditioning and heating The Servo Motor needed to be replaced, which cost $2000.00.
2016 Lexus RX 350 Problems:
Slipping transmission is the major issue of this model. Shift delays, the car trembling at any speed, or whistling bangs are all indicators of transmission problems with the 2016 Lexus RX350.
Under the hood, there is sometimes a burning odor. If you ignore Lexus RX350 gearbox issues, your gas mileage may worsen, and you may be unable to drive your RX350 at all.
There are some other problems like shifting issues, sunroof exploding while driving, and Bluetooth connection problems.
According to one of the owners This transmission offers three options; regardless of which option is chosen, the first shifting is inconsistent, harsh, and occasionally terrifying. There is no justification for such a dreadful shifting operation.
2017 Lexus RX 350 Problems:
This model has problems with brakes. The car shudders and rattles excessively when accelerating from a stop between the second and fourth gears at about 1,500-1,800 RPM, according to one of the owners.
Sometimes the brake pressure is low for a while. According to one driver, Lexus will not explain what the repair is until they rectified it first.
What Are The Worst Years of Lexus RX 350?
2007 and 2008 are the worst RX 350 models till now. Even though the 2007 Lexus RX 350 has the most overall complaints, the 2008 model year is considered to be the worst owing to other features such as higher repair costs or more problems at lower mileage.
Most Common Problems of Lexus RX 350
Cracking Dashboard:
The dashboard of that initial generation, like the other Lexus vehicles that debuted in 2007, had a plastics problem. The dashboard of the Lexus RX 350 had various issues, particularly cracking in the first few model years.
Looking at the airbag, the dash becomes greasy. You’ll need to visit a repair shop around this time to get your dash replaced. If you contact Lexus, they may tell you that you may obtain a new dash but that you would be responsible for the labor charges.
Engine Problem:
The engine failure in the 2010 RX 250 model has extended to other components, necessitating replacement on many occasions.
The check engine light came on after a few minutes of driving. Then, according to one of the drivers, an AWD failure alert came, and power was substantially reduced. The car could not go faster than 25 miles per hour.
Massive oil leaking:
Another prevalent and potentially significant issue with the Lexus RX 350 is the engine’s proclivity for oil leaks. Early versions had major leaks, and many customers preferred to pay for repairs.
The 2007 Lexus RX350’s VVT-i oil line has a history of leaking. The ground, engine, and undercarriage are all affected by this massive leak.
Low engine oil message and engine oil pressure indicators will display if the oil line ruptures while driving.
Steering Problem:
While leakage within the rack and pinion assembly has been reported often on 2007 and 2008 models, there have been a few complaints on 2009 versions. It appears to be a semi-isolated problem.
The cost of repairing these leaks ranged from $1,300 to $1,800 for those who had them. The bulk of these reported faults, according to CarComplaints.com, happened after 100,000 kilometers.
Which Lexus RX 350 Years are Safe to Buy Used?
- 2011 Lexus RX 350
- 2012 Lexus RX 350
- 2013 Lexus RX 350
- 2014 Lexus RX 350
- 2015 Lexus RX 350
- 2018 Lexus RX 350
- 2019 Lexus RX 350
- 2021 Lexus RX 350
The 2011 Lexus RX 350 offers the great majority of buyers what they want: enjoyable driving dynamics, lots of passenger and luggage room, and robust build quality.
When it comes to offering a comfortable ride, a sumptuous interior, and daily usability, the 2012 Lexus RX 350 is unrivaled. It’s no surprise that the RX 350 is Lexus’ best-selling vehicle, given its broad appeal.
For 2013, the Lexus RX 350 gets a new style that aligns it with the brand’s new design strategy. Passengers are isolated from the outer world in a silent bubble of luxury thanks to the comfortable suspension and ample sound insulation.
The 2014 Lexus RX is a sumptuous, extravagant SUV that gives off the perfect luxury vibe.
The new 2015 RX 350 embodies everything Lexus stands for luxury and cutting-edge technology. Lexus continues to be known for producing high-quality vehicles. The same goes for 2018 also.
The 2019 model offers a smooth powertrain, unique appearance, features, and safety.
Model 2021 has a high level of reliability. It does, however, have a less cargo area than the previous one.
Conclusion
The 2011-2015 possibilities, particularly 2013, are also solid picks. 2019 Lexus RX 360 vehicles are wonderful selections if you’re seeking a decent used Lexus RX 360.
However, practically any model year that isn’t mentioned on our list of model years to avoid is an excellent option. If you decide to purchase an older model, you should be aware that it will require additional care to survive a long time.
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