I'm looking for get a used, 99 or 2000 RX300. It's very nice, interior etc etc.... but while I'm doing more research online, I figured there are so many owner complaint about the transmission problem they have. A lot of them has to replace their transmission at $5000+ without warranty coverage!! Anyone has experience?

 

The '99 and '00 RX 300's were fine automobiles, but two things you should consider in a purchase of these vehicles.

• They were the first "crossover" SUV's, built on a Camry platform. In the transformation they gained nearly 1K lbs, meaning that the drive train was carrying a heavier load than for which it was originally designed. While very few owners have had transmission problems, a few incidents can be expected - especially as these vehicles reach the 100K mile mark and their sixth and seventh anniversaries. In comparison, I would anticipate the RX, even in its senior years, will still be more reliable than most cars, despite a somewhat higher cost to repair.
  
  
• Mileage is a factor too, and while Lexus products have an excellent reputation for reliability, a six or seven year-old car can be expected to have a few problems, depending of course, on the treatment and maintenance it received. Look for a low mileage car that was regularly serviced by a dealer who will have complete records on file.

I don't believe "a lot" of RX's have had transmission troubles. On the basis of sheer numbers sold, I suspect the RX has had a "good" to "above average" record on transmission service. Remember that a handful of negative experiences that appear on these forums are not nececessarily representiative of all vehicles sold. The failure of a major component, while serious, tends to get more notice than all of the thousands that perform flawlessly day after day.

Although KBB pricing is beginning to plunge below the 15K mark for this vehicle, making it an excellent alternative to a "new" economy car or an off-lease family sedan, you have to remember that it IS a used car, and all the caveats that come with that designation still apply. Good luck in your search!

 

u mention 99 & 00.
But the model did not change till 2003/04.

does that mean that same can be expected for any rx300?

 

Before you purchase the vehicle, see if they will replace the battery, tires and fluids for you.