Used Lexus RX

What to know before buying: Lexus RX

From 4 video reviews, 1 forum thread and 2 press tests · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• Owners and the 2018 review praise the RX for its quiet, comfortable ride, supportive seats and high-quality cabin.[2][7]
• The RX suits relaxed driving better than sporty use: ride comfort is good, but steering feel and engaging handling are not its strengths.[1][3][7]
• Equipment is generally generous, with many comfort and safety features that were optional on rivals fitted as standard on the RX.[3][4]
• The model has a strong reliability reputation, but a used example's condition and maintenance history remain crucial; owner experiences can differ markedly.[2][3]

Typical faults

• On the 3.5-litre V6, oil-feed or oil-cooler lines can rupture and rapidly dump the oil; failure to stop immediately may severely damage the engine.[5][6]XU30Third generation

  3.5 V6

• The XU30 can admit water through sunroof drains, lamp seals, tailgate seams and roof-rail or strut mounts; on hybrids, unnoticed moisture can damage the battery.[6]one sourceXU30

  2003–2008

• XU30 air suspension can suffer leaking struts, compressor failure and seized or failed height sensors; the conventional coil suspension is described as more durable.[6]one sourceXU30

  2003–2008

• XU30 headlamps can develop excessive condensation that may eventually cause lamp failure.[6]one sourceXU30

  2003–2008

• On the third-generation RX350, a failed A/C amplifier can stop the system cooling; the source also identifies diagnostic code B1475.[5]one sourceThird generation

  2010–2015 · RX350 3.5 V6

• The powered tailgate can malfunction: it is not uncommon on the XU30, while third-generation cars may require reinitialisation after battery disconnection.[5][6]XU30Third generation

Which engine and version to take

• The 450h hybrid is the recommended choice, especially in town: it can run briefly on electricity and is quiet, while the sources also rate the hybrid system's longevity highly.[3][7]

What to avoid

• Treat any 3.5-litre V6 with an oil warning, major leak or unclear oil-line repair history cautiously: a ruptured line can destroy the engine.[5][6]XU30Third generation

What to check at the inspection

• On an XU30, inspect the rear underbody and fuel-filler pipe; the latter can corrode and cause a small fuel leak while refuelling.[6]one sourceXU30
• Check for moisture in the front and rear footwells and boot; inspect sunroof drains, lamp seals, tailgate seams and roof fittings.[6]one sourceXU30
• Inspect XU30 headlamps for condensation and cycle the powered tailgate several times.[6]one sourceXU30
• On an XU30, check the power-steering fluid and inspect the lines and rack for leaks; pay particular attention to the high-pressure line behind the engine on RX300 and RX330 models.[6]one sourceXU30
• On a third-generation RX350, check for major oil leaks and scan for oil warnings, A/C code B1475 and oxygen-sensor codes P0137/P0138.[5]one sourceThird generation
• Before buying any RX, test Bluetooth, seat memory, the reversing camera and every other electrical function; the model carries many electronic systems.[3]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — Lexus RX 2016 tests, atsauksmes un iespaidi - Forums · forum
2. [2]whatcar.lv — Lexus RX (03-09) Atsauksmes par auto - WhatCar.lv · press
3. [3]whatcar.lv — Lietota Lexus RX pirkšanas padomi - What Car? - WhatCar.lv · press
4. [4]ReDriven — Is the Lexus RX the BEST USED SUV you could buy? · ▶ video
5. [5]1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics Know — Top 5 Problems 3rd Generation 2010-15 Lexus RX350 SUV · ▶ video
6. [6]different car review — Buying a used Lexus RX (XU30) - 2003-2008, Buying Guide with Common Issues · ▶ video
7. [7]carwow — Lexus RX SUV 2018 review | Mat Watson Reviews · ▶ video

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