adorjr

Just got an 04 RX 330 for the wife. Picking up next week; what do we need to look for in the SUV? Been reading up on the RX 330, looking for maintenance and parts issues. Thanks in advance for sharing your knowledge.

pjm207

I just purchased a 330 a couple weeks ago, and there are a few others on here as well that are new (used) owners of the 2004 RX330. a few things that I've had to go through:

1) headlight condensation
2) extra master key purchase and reprogramming
3) floor mat purchase
4) reprogramming moon roof

I guess if you make sure that you're getting 2 master keys and floor mats you've done yourself a favor. the key on ebay was $65, and I'm still figuring out a course of action to get it cut/programmed. I'm going to call around tomorrow to see if there are any local locksmiths that do this as I'm nowhere near a dealer. I bought the key from midwestkeyless, and I've emailed them asking for instructions on programming. I'll let the board know what I find out. The mats I bought from Weathertech and they ran about $115 with shipping, and they are NICE. the headlight condensation can be fixed with some silicone, and if you search headlight condensation on the board you can get more information about it. The moonroof needed to be reprogrammed because it loses its memory when the battery is disconnected. It's as easy as holding the rocker button until the roof tilts, returns, opens fully and closes. Let your ringer off the switch and it's done.

That's really all that I've run into so far. I did just go out and program the locks to unlock when the drivers door opens as opposed to the default unlocking when the vehicle is placed in park - I was stopped at a train the other day and I put it in park and the doors unlocked. I just didn't feel comfortable with that, so I changed it based upon the instructions in the owners manual.

Good luck with the purchase!

mandyfig

As usual the Manual is your friend.

greasegun

Check for radiator leak, there was campaign for that. The dealer ran my vin number and they replaced my rads after the warranty expired. They fixed my 330 last January 2010 with 71000 kms.

locomo

I recently purchased a 2005 RX 330 with 49K miles, w/navigation, Premium Plus for my wife. Paid $23500 including extended warranty for 52 mo/104K mi. Headlight condensation is an issue so I'll be researching on the board here. Documented sheduled maintenance will be critical for the warranty. I've been told the 90k timing belt replacement will be several hundred $. 18" tires will probably run close to $200 per for decent quality. We learn something new about accessories and features every day. I read the manual, my wife just pushes buttons to see what happens. argh.

tftimm

I just got a 2004 RX330 as well, CPO w/54K, premium, auto lift hatch, 18" tires, towing package. I've had it for 2 weeks now. So far so good. A few things that need to be looked at including the programming of both keys since the memory function doesn't work right along with some minor condensation in front driver headlight.

We are enjoying this smooth riding SUV. I enjoy all the features, the nice wood, soft leather, etc.

Consumer reports gave the vehicle excellent ratings and I am a true believer in CR, so we'll see.

Gas mileage was suprisingly better than what we expected. I thought it would more SUV like, but it is actually not bad, 18-19 in the city, 23-25 highway. Can't beat that!

pjm207

what was the fix for the radiator leak in case I run into that? replacement?

pjm207

no need to respond - i searched it. i'll call my closest dealer and have him run my vin for replacement if necessary.

man this forum is awesome!!!

adorjr

Thank you for the information. For peace of mind and since the wife is driving the SUV, we're considering a Platinum warranty for 4 years/50K mi too.

cdave211

brake pressure constant problem 4 us

sickntired

I thought that it doesn't need to be replaced unless it is leaking.

jbrooksga

Make sure you have your transmission serviced at suggested intervals. Not sure about our particular 2004 models, but the RX has had its share of transmission problems.

daihung

pjm, I'm thinking of buying the Weathertech mats too. Which one did you buy, the regular one or the heavy duty one? Did you buy a full set (front/back) or just the front? The heavy duty one front/back is almost $200.

mandyfig

Get the Platinum. I have it and it is great! When the dealer sends the request for the repair, they send it to Lexus.

pjm207

full set regular front and back for $99.95 + tax - http://www.weathertech.com/store/mvp...1013&Year=2004