Here Are The Lexus RX 350 Years To Avoid
We've identified five Lexus RX 350 years to avoid. See which ones and why they're risky (as well as which RX 350 years are safe to buy used) so you can car shop with confidence.
Many people are paying attention to the Lexus RX 350 2022 model since it’s a luxury hybrid designed for comfort, performance, and eco-friendly technology. But, of course, the 2022 model isn’t the only version of the Lexus RX 350, and there are some Lexus RX 350 years to avoid.
In this article, we’ll look at which model years tend to get the most complaints and have the most performance issues, look at some of the most common problems with those model years, and the rate which models are the most reliable or best options for people looking to buy a used Lexus RX 350.
That way, you’ll have the information you need to make an informed decision about your Lexus RX 350 and choose from a model year that’s most likely to perform and last. That way, you can save money and enjoy your luxury sedan without the frustrations of unexpected vehicle failures and other problems.
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Lexus RX 350 Years You Should Avoid
The Lexus RX 350 has been around since 2007, and like many other Lexus models released in 2007, there were some problems with the initial release.
Here are the main Lexus RX 350 years to avoid:
- 2007
- 2008
- 2010
- 2016
- 2017
The 2007 model is far and away the one that tends to get the most attention for having parts failures and just not performing as consumers expected from a new Lexus. Thankfully, the rate of complaints and problems with the Lexus RX 350 went down pretty quickly from 2007 until the 2010 and 2011 models had similar low complaints. (the 2010 and 2009 models barely make this list.)
There was a temporary increase in problems with the 2016 and 2017 models, but both years are still much better than 2007 in terms of performance and consumer satisfaction with the vehicle.
Other model years enjoy low failure rates and high consumer satisfaction, just like you’d expect from a luxury vehicle.
Before we get into the successful model years, though, let’s take a closer look at the common problems with the Lexus RX 350.
Common Problems With The Lexus RX 350
These are some of the most common problems with the Lexus RX 350, especially with the Lexus RX 350 years to avoid. That doesn’t mean that these problems are widespread, just that users who had issues with the Lexus RX 350 were more likely to have these problems and that these problems are a little more common than they should be in the general function of a vehicle.
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Dashboard Cracking
Like other models Lexus released in 2007, there was a plastics issue with the dashboard in that first model. The Lexus RX 350 had some problems with the dashboard, specifically cracking in the first few model years, though it was a problem that was resolved with subsequent releases.
This issue isn’t always serious; it can be a cosmetic issue. But depending on where the crack occurs, it can also interact with the airbag system, leaving internal wiring more vulnerable or potentially making rough or uncomfortable areas on the dashboard.
Oil Leaks
Another common and relatively severe problem with the Lexus RX 360 is that the engine seems prone to oil leaks. In early models, these leaks were severe, and many consumers chose to pay for repairs and to have the engines sealed rather than paying for extra oil to handle the leak.
Severe oil leaks can make it hard to maintain your vehicle correctly, and unfortunately, they are also usually relatively expensive to pay for and repair.
The good news is, like most of the problems with the early RX 350, later models got away from this problem, and the oil leaks got less noticeable even when they happened.
Steering Problems
One of the biggest safety problems with the early releases of the Lexus RX 350 is that the rack and pinion sometimes start leaking power steering fluids, which is both a huge safety concern and a relatively expensive fix. Replacing the part is the only way to repair this problem, which usually costs upwards of $1,600.
Since this problem is a little unpredictable and seems to be common under 100k miles, that’s a pretty significant repair to need relatively early in owning the vehicle.
Battery Failures
Another common problem, though thankfully a less expensive problem, is that the Lexus RX 360 had batteries starting to fail prematurely. Battery failures aren’t usually a huge problem, and this failure didn’t come with any safety issues, but the costs can add up, especially if they are a recurring problem.
Defective Rain Sensors
One of the most interesting features of the Lexus RX 350 is the rain-sensing windshield, which automatically adjusts the wiper’s speed based on how much rain is pouring on the windshield. While this feature is designed to provide convenience to the driver, it has become a sore spot for many people.
Apparently, numerous RX 350 models struggled with faulty rain sensors on the windshield, but it’s more pronounced with the 2017 model year. Many owners have complained that the rain sensors don’t work as well while driving at night. The wiper also tends to malfunction even after cranking up the sensitivity dial to maximum.
Illuminated Airbag Warning Light
Numerous models of the RX 350 (2007-2010 and 2013-2014 models) reportedly had issues with illuminated supplemental restraints system (SRS) warning lights. Owners of the affected RX 350s have reported receiving error codes B0111 and B0116 – pointing to various causes like faulty sensors, a wet airbag module, and a depleted airbag backup battery.
Rattling Doors
The 2010 Lexus RX 350 had several body integrity issues, but perhaps the worst was the rattling front doors. Owners reported that the doors would rattle as they drove, and some even downright came loose, which is a huge security risk.
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Reliable Lexus RX 350 Model Years
You’re in luck if you’re looking for one of the more reliable Lexus RX model years. The Lexus RX 350 has a lot more reliable models than unreliable ones.
Here’s a quick list of the reliable releases:
- 2011-2015
- 2018
- 2019
- 2021
As a note, the 2021 model, and the upcoming 2022 model, aren’t necessarily as well-tested as the other models on this list. That means that more issues may be discovered in the future, but they are reliable choices as far as we know.
Which Lexus RX 350 Models Are Good Used Vehicles?
Whether you’re looking for a great used Lexus RX 360, the 2018 and 2019 models are great options. However, since these models are relatively new, finding an affordable, used option might be tricky.
The 2011-2015 options are also good choices, especially 2013. However, the truth is that almost any model year that isn’t listed in our model years to avoid is a good choice. The bigger thing to consider is whether the car has reasonable mileage for its age, whether the seller can provide complete maintenance records, and whether the vehicle has been involved in an accident or has any major maintenance missing.
If you’re looking for a reliable used vehicle, maintenance matters almost as much, sometimes more, than the specific model year. When it comes to the Lexus RX 360, finding the right used car for you is usually more about avoiding the early release years and then finding a vehicle that’s been well maintained vs. finding a specific model year.
Frequently Asked Questions: Lexus RX 350 Years To Avoid
Q: Which Lexus RX 350 model years should potential buyers be cautious of when considering a used vehicle?
A: If you’re in the market for a used Lexus RX 350, avoid the 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 model years. These particular years are the most problematic and ensure a more reliable and satisfying ownership experience.
Q: What are some of the most common issues reported by owners of the problematic RX 350 model years?
A: Owners of the Lexus RX 350 model years to avoid have reported various issues, including dashboard cracking (especially in early models), oil leaks, steering problems due to leaking power steering fluids, premature battery failures, defective rain sensors, illuminated airbag warning lights, and rattling doors.
Q: Are there any specific problems with the rain-sensing windshield feature in certain RX 350 models?
A: Yes, numerous Lexus RX 350 models, particularly the 2017 model year, have struggled with faulty rain sensors on the windshield. Owners have complained that the rain sensors don’t work well while driving at night, and the wiper tends to malfunction even after adjusting the sensitivity dial to maximum.
Q: Which model years are considered more reliable options?
A: Consider the 2011-2015, 2018, 2019, and 2021 model years. These years have generally received fewer complaints and have proven to be more dependable choices.
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