The following Lexus RX 350 years are to be avoided. Buying a used RX 350 is safer if you know which ones are risky (as well as which ones are safe).
Due to its luxury hybrid design, performance, and eco-friendly features, the Lexus RX 350 2022 model is attracting a lot of attention. Lexus RX 350 years aren’t limited to the 2022 model, and some Lexus RX 350 years should be avoided.
During this article, we will examine which Lexus RX 350 model years are most common for complaints and performance issues, the most common problems with those model years, and which models are the most reliable or best options for those looking to buy used Lexus RX 350s.
As a result, you’ll be able to determine which Lexus RX 350 model year is most likely to perform and last. As a result, you will be able to save money without having to worry about unexpected vehicle failures.
Lexus RX 350 Years You Should Avoid
Lexus RX 350 has been around since 2007, and like many Lexus models released that year, the initial release had some problems.
You should avoid the following Lexus RX 350 years:
Most consumers are unhappy with the 2007 model because it doesn’t perform as expected for a new Lexus and has a lot of parts failures. Since 2007, the Lexus RX 350 has received fewer complaints and problems than it did from 2007 until the 2010 and 2011 models received similar numbers. This list barely includes the 2010 and 2009 models.
Both the 2016 and 2017 models had a temporary increase in problems, but they are still much better than 2007 in terms of performance and consumer satisfaction.
Similarly, luxury vehicles from other model years are low-failure and high-satisfaction.
Here are the common problems with the Lexus RX 350 before we move on to the successful model years.
Common Problems With The Lexus RX 350
The Lexus RX 350 has some of the most common problems, especially in its first few years. Having issues with the Lexus RX 350 does not mean that these problems are widespread; it just means that these problems are more common than they should be based on the general function of the car.
Dashboard Cracking
It was common for Lexus to have plastics issues with the dashboard in its first model in 2007. During the first few model years of the Lexus RX 350, the dashboard had some problems, especially cracking, but this was resolved with subsequent releases.
It’s not always a serious problem; it can just be cosmetic. However, depending on where the crack occurs, it can also affect the airbag system, possibly making the dashboard rough or uncomfortable.
Oil Leaks
Similarly, the Lexus RX 360 seems prone to oil leaks, which is another common problem. There were severe leaks in early models, and many consumers chose to pay for repairs and have the engines sealed instead of paying for more oil.
In addition to causing problems with your vehicle’s maintenance, severe oil leaks can be extremely expensive to fix.
Fortunately, later models of the RX 350 got away from this problem, and the oil leaks got less noticeable even when they did occur.
Steering Problems
Among the biggest safety concerns with the Lexus RX 350 early releases is that the rack and pinion sometimes leak power steering fluid, which is both a safety concern and an expensive repair. Usually, $1,600 is needed to replace the part, which is the only way to solve this problem.
Under 100k miles, this problem seems to be fairly common, making it a significant repair to need relatively early in ownership.
Battery Failures
Lexus RX 360 batteries started failing prematurely, another common issue, but thankfully a less expensive one. There aren’t usually many problems with battery failures, and this one didn’t result in any safety concerns, but the costs can add up over time.
Defective Rain Sensors
With the Lexus RX 350, the rain-sensing windshield adjusts the wiper speed automatically based on how much rain is pouring on the windshield. Many people dislike this feature, despite the fact that it is designed to provide convenience to the driver.
The 2017 model year RX 350 appears to be the most affected by faulty rain sensors on the windshield. It has been reported by many owners that rain sensors do not work as well at night. When the sensitivity dial is turned all the way up, the wiper still tends to malfunction.
Illuminated Airbag Warning Light
The illuminated supplemental restraints system (SRS) warning lights were reported to be malfunctioning in several models of the RX 350 (2007-2010 and 2013-2014 models).
The affected RX 350s have been reported to have error codes B0111 and B0116, which can be caused by faulty sensors, a wet airbag module, or a depleted airbag backup battery.
Rattling Doors
There were several problems with the Lexus RX 350’s body integrity, but the rattling front doors were perhaps the most severe. Some owners reported that the doors rattled as they drove, and some even came loose, which posed a serious security risk.
Reliable Lexus RX 350 Model Years
There is a Lexus RX model year that is one of the most reliable on the market. There are a lot more reliable Lexus RX 350 models than unreliable ones.
A quick list of reliable releases is below:
It’s important to note that the 2021 model, and the upcoming 2022 model, aren’t necessarily as well-tested as the other models. In other words, more issues could arise in the future, but as far as we know, these are reliable choices.
Which Lexus RX 350 Models Are Good Used Vehicles?
The 2018 and 2019 Lexus RX 360 are great options for used Lexus RX 360 buyers. In spite of this, it can be difficult to find an affordable, used version of these models since they are relatively new.
It is also a good idea to consider the 2011-2015 options, particularly 2013. Most model years that aren’t listed in our model years to avoid are a good choice. Whether the car has a reasonable amount of mileage for its age, whether the seller can provide complete maintenance records, and whether it has been involved in an accident or needs major maintenance should be the biggest concerns.
Maintaining a used car is almost as important as the exact model year when looking for a reliable one. Finding the right Lexus RX 360 used car usually involves avoiding the early release years and finding a well maintained vehicle rather than looking for a specific model year.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Lexus RX 350 Years To Avoid
Which Lexus RX 350 model years should potential buyers be cautious of when considering a used vehicle?
Avoid the 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 model years when shopping for used Lexus RX 350s. Ownership experiences are more reliable and satisfying during these particular years.
What are some of the most common issues reported by owners of the problematic RX 350 model years?
Among the problems reported by Lexus RX 350 owners over the past few years are dashboard cracking (especially in early models), oil leaks, steering problems caused by leaking power steering fluids, premature battery failures, defective rain sensors, illuminated airbag warning lights, and rattling doors.
Are there any specific problems with the rain-sensing windshield feature in certain RX 350 models?
There have been numerous reports of faulty rain sensors on the windshield of Lexus RX 350 models, especially those from the 2017 model year. Several owners have complained that their wipers tend to malfunction even after adjusting the sensitivity dial to maximum even when driving at night.
Which model years are considered more reliable options?
Model years 2011-2015, 2018, 2019, and 2021 should be considered. There have generally been fewer complaints and more reliable choices in these years.