3 Most Common Lexus RX Problems Reported by Real Owners

The Lexus RX is one of the most reliable and least problematic luxury SUVs. Even when considering the three most common Lexus RX problems, we only see over 100 real owners report one problem. Still, we should examine the most common issues with this reliable luxury SUV.

Most common Lexus RX problems

Blue 2023 Lexus RX 350 Posed
2023 Lexus RX 350 | Lexus

RepairPal collects real data regarding problems with all vehicles. The most common Lexus RX problems are:

  • Massive oil leak and loss of oil pressure – reported by 112 owners
  • Air conditioning fault due to failed AC amplifier – reported by 82 owners
  • Software upgrades for GPS, radio, and heater operation – reported by 26 owners

The low number of owners reporting these problems puts the Lexus RX high on reliability charts.

A massive oil leak in the Lexus RX sounds like a pretty serious problem

An oil leak is the most serious of the problems reported for this luxury SUV. This issue occurs when the oil line bursts. The ground, engine, and undercarriage become covered in oil. If this occurs while driving, the low engine oil message will light and warn the driver. Drivers must stop their vehicles when this happens. Continued use could result in complete engine failure.

This problem requires replacing the oil line and cleaning the areas covered in oil. Lexus RX models experiencing this problem must be towed to the repair shop.

How can the air conditioning fault be fixed in this luxury SUV?

The second most common Lexus RX problem is an air conditioner fault. This problem shows an AC error message on the dashboard caused by a faulty AC amplifier.

Lexus offers a revised part that is available to correct this problem. The average cost to fix this issue is between $110 and $139.

How can the GPS, radio, and heater control problems be fixed?

Some Lexus RX owners experience problems with these systems, which are all controlled through the touchscreen interface. These problems are fixed using a software upgrade installed at the dealership. Unfortunately, model years experiencing this problem in the Lexus RX aren’t new enough for over-the-air updates. The cost for this repair is between $110-$139.

Is the Lexus RX a reliable luxury SUV?

What comes with a fully-loaded 2023 Lexus RX? The 500h F Sport Performance AWD model is the top of the lineup.
2023 Lexus RX 500h | Lexus

The Lexus RX receives a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal. This places the RX in the third spot out of 14 models for the luxury midsize SUV class. This ranking is based on three factors which are:

  • Cost – The Lexus RX’s average annual repair and maintenance costs are $550 compared to $807 for luxury midsize SUVs
  • Frequency – RX owners bring their vehicles to the repair shop for unscheduled repairs 0.44 times per year compared to 0.6 for the class.
  • Severity – The probability of severe repairs for the Lexus RX is 8% compared to 11% for luxury midsize SUVs.

Is the 2023 Lexus RX a good SUV?

Blue 2023 Lexus RX 350 Luxury SUV
2023 Lexus RX 350 Luxury SUV | Lexus

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 is a good SUV in the luxury midsize SUV class. This vehicle offers a sporty build, an upscale cabin, and plenty of room for cargo and up to five passengers. This SUV has an impressive package of safety features and an efficient four-cylinder powertrain.

U.S. News & World Report ranks the 2023 Lexus RX 350 16th out of 23 luxury midsize SUVs. This is a surprising ranking considering the Lexus RX reliability ranking. This class is highly competitive, with some three-row models ranking higher, such as the Audi Q8 and Volvo XC90.

Next, check out the three versions of the Lexus RX, or learn more about the 2023 Lexus RX in this video below: