jwminzen

Bought our Lexus rx330 a few months ago and I'm afraid I bought a lemon. The check engine light came on recently (my scanned showed P0420). I had also been hearing a pulsating humming sound at highway speeds. I took it to Lexus to see if they could diagnose all the issues.

Their Verdict:
Passenger side catalytic needs to be replace: $865

They also informed my that humming noise was coming from my transfer case, and they said it needed to be replaced: $6,300

Other issues:

Power steering leak, hose needs to be replaced: $750
Also rack and pinion steering needs to be replaced: $1500
(note that I have not noticed any steering issues)


Total estimate was around $9600

Are these issues common with the RX330 or did I get a lemon?

RX330inFL

Sounds like the previous owner did not go above and beyond when it came to keeping the key fluids changed. The front transfer case fluid needs regular attention as does the power steering fluid, though you will not find the latter on any service interval chart. Was the vehicle serviced regularly by the previous owner at Lexus? You would probably be best served by finding a local independent Toyota/Lexus shop in your area to have a look at your vehicle for a second opinion. The front rack can be leaking and not give you any problems for years unless it runs dry of fluid. Be sure to keep it topped off with DEXRON II/III ATF per the Owner's Manual. Not sure about the power steering hose leak.

Yes, there are numerous threads here at CL regarding failures in the power steering rack. Such as:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...k-problem.html

The transfer case has been discussed a number of places, to include:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ion-whine.html

As for the P0420 error code and the need to replace the CAT:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...sue-p0420.html

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-trac-off.html

There are more on these topics, you just need to search.

Your Lexus dealer could just be trying to run up a bill on you with repairs you may not need. Why you need a second opinion. Ask about the transfer case noise and have them check the condition and level of the gear oil in there. For the rest, just ask if they could do a thorough inspection for you as you are thinking about whether you should keep or sell the vehicle.