Hi, I'm considering getting an 08 RX400h. I was just wondering if there are common problems with this vehicle. I think I saw a few problems on this thread here and there but nothing really jumped out at me. I'm not sure if CR provides reliability ratings for this particular model, and even if it does, the sample would probably be small enough that the data might be meaningless. So I figure searching an answer from a forum would be more helpful.

Also, I might not be able to get the maintenace record from the dealer. So if if you or if you know someone leased an 08 RX400h in NJ with around 65 kmiles after the lease was over, PM me... I know this is a long shot.

Have a good day!

 

Per the latest CR reliability history (April 2011): For the RX hybrid 08, most ratings, including overall, are the best possible (much better than average). Electrical is average. "Only" better than average marks went to Body Integrity, Body Hardware, Power Equipment, and Audio System.

Both Electrical and Audio were rated better than the 06 and 07.

For reference, the 08 non-hybrid RX scored an overall better than average, with average awarded to Electrical, Body Integrity, and Audio System.

Looking at the pagefull of dots, It appears that the 08 LX just edged out the 08 RX Hybrid for being the most reliable Lexus made for 08.

 

Thanks for the helpful info Kendig!

I'm now interested at a certified used as well. 06 certified (3 year warrenty?) vs 08 without warrenty, both under 70k miles. 08 does have all the service records on Carfax. Price-wise it may be a wash. I'll need to go over this with my wife.

 

Personally I would go with 08....You can get maintenance records for car by going on MYLEXUS.com and entering the vin # and open a account. The certified is fine, but I went with a no warranty one and saved $6k . I figured for that savings I could get anything fixed...However I was offered a warranty by CARMAX which would still have saved me money....The other car was a 07 and for being certified had issues that the dealer was trying to not fix such as moisture in the headlights. I love my 08 which had every option that the Dealer 07 had and cost me a whole lot less. I would have the 08 checked out by a reputable mechanic or even Lexus and make your decision...

 

One difference to consider is that 06 does not have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

If you are looking at one with Nav, the 07-08 display is generally regarded as better. (But even though I have one on our 07, we use our TomTom for its greater functionality).

 

I'm at the dealership as we speak and they're inspecting the non-certified vehicle. I have negotiated with the sales on price and I'm leaning toward the 08 at this moment. Both vehicles are identical, even the color, mileage, and equipment. Both have Nav. Both dealerships have been professional so far.

I work for TomTom's competitor so I'm not really worried about Nav. I do love backup camera though. I'm not worried about tire monitoring system but it would be a plus.

APR could shift the final decision making... I could get 2.99% on any 07 or newer through a local bank (4.5% on 06 or older). If I go with 06 then I'd get 3.9% from Lexus.

Note: I just found out (via carfax) the original person who leased the vehicle only drove around 48k miles, not 65 k. Someone (dealer? but not the one that I'm getting it from) drove the vehicle from Jan 2011 to Oct 2011 for 17k miles.

 

Good luck.....Hope everything works out for you...

 

Deal with 08 fall through.

Another lady bought it without having it inspected. I hope she or someone knows her would let her know that the vehicle needs a new water pump. It's located in Kansas City, MO.

 

the certified warranty is well worth it

 

Did you found your 400h? I'm looking for a fully loaded 2008 or 2007 400H with low miles. Is it worth buying for the dealer to pay a few $1000s more?

 

No I didn't end up buying 400h. I got an 09 350 with 21,000 miles instead. See this thread:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-included.html

What's the mileage that you're looking at? I'd say 07/08 loaded below $27,000 with 45,000 miles is a good deal.

 

Agreed. My 08 was also certified and fully loaded with AWD. I actually had to take it back for a few minor repairs and they took care of all the costs.