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Hybrid TechnologyUnique topics related to the 2004 -2009 RX400H model hybrid drivetrain and other features/options found only on the RX400H. Please use the main forum for discussion about shared components with other second generation RX models.
My 2008 Rx400h has always had the well described "braking surge" problem on occasion. I notice it on slow speed braking, typically at an intersection. I will be pressing down on the brake pedal and then suddenly will feel like I am losing braking capacity. The immediate responce to to hit the brake harder and the vehicle always then slows down properly. I don't think the car actually surges forward much but it probably would if you didn't respond quickly. I am not the only one. There are several threads on the internet describing this.
I had the problem you're describing (different from the Prius description) a couple years ago and brought it to the dealer. They were able to fix it with no problem.
and reported it to two different dealerships who claimed they never heard of the problem. I felt they were suggesting I imagined it and I am still driving with the problem. While not a serious safety issue since the brakes do apply eventually it's not something that should happen.
It goes off lease soon and am seriously considering the MB M class even though I loved my RX.
I have not been able to duplicate the problem but it's only happen to me twice since I've owned the car. First time I was pulling into the Autozone I put my foot on the brake as I pulled into the parking space pressed the brake pedal to stop there was a delay and I ended up pressing the brake harder to stop which came to a abrupt halt. I panicked because I thought something went wrong but I haven't been able to duplicate the problem since. Second time I was trying to stop and to turn into to a parking lot. The brakes already have no "feel" to them but I ended up running right up to the parking entrance still going about 35mph and set off the ABS when I realized I still had too much speed and I couldn't tell if I was braking hard or not, strange. Then I hear about the Prius braking problems about 6 months later. No point in going to the dealer for it because it's only happen twice the second time maybe I'm just not used to the electric brakes since I don't drive it too often.
i have noticed it too in my RX. I think the lack of braking response will cause problems in close quarters with another vehicle but as long as you have a reasonable distance between vehicles it should be okay. its not as predictable but occours fairly commonly to be worthy of notice
I had the problem you're describing (different from the Prius description) a couple years ago and brought it to the dealer. They were able to fix it with no problem.
I have noticed it too. Do you know what the fix was? Maybe I will ask the dealer since its still under warranty. my wife has never had it happen but I have more than a few times.. I just expect it now...
I think its something with the CVT trans, its going into nuetral while braking.
I have noticed it too. Do you know what the fix was? Maybe I will ask the dealer since its still under warranty. my wife has never had it happen but I have more than a few times.. I just expect it now...
I think its something with the CVT trans, its going into nuetral while braking.
Sorry. I'm sure they have a record of it. If I check service history online it is too brief.
I had the new regular RX 350 as a loaner and I loved it. It also didn't skid over wet manholes when you braked. I test drove the new 450h to make sure I was making the right decision. I traded in my 400h in August. In light of the past winter with the never ending snow I was very happy with my decision. Of course now the price of gas has skyrocketed, but I don't drive that many miles.
Last edited by LexRexBlue; Apr 29, 2011 at 01:54 PM.
Reason: didn't proofread
My 2008 Rx400h has always had the well described "braking surge" problem on occasion. I notice it on slow speed braking, typically at an intersection. I will be pressing down on the brake pedal and then suddenly will feel like I am losing braking capacity. The immediate responce to to hit the brake harder and the vehicle always then slows down properly. I don't think the car actually surges forward much but it probably would if you didn't respond quickly. I am not the only one. There are several threads on the internet describing this.
This has always been written off as normal "hybrid braking." Now with the Prius braking problems, I wonder if we are next in line for a repair???
I only have my rx400h for 2 months now and have noticed the loss in braking powder when slowing down. My theory is that the car changes from engine to battery at this point hence a difference in power being given to the brakes (does this make since)?
Last edited by Jmitch63; Dec 10, 2017 at 01:56 AM.
Reason: Spelling errors