Hello. I'm sure this is not the first post of this nature, and I apologize in advance...

I am strongly considering buying a rx300. There is an 02 with 94K that I am considering. I have been reading about the transmission issues, and I understand that it probably sounds worse than it is. The internet has a way of blowing things out of proportion. If I go and check out this vehicle, what should I be looking for? Are there any early warning signs of trans failure? What about the timing belt? Any input is appreciated!

 

Welcome to Club Lexus!

I'd suggest you do a search on things to look for as you've done already on the transmission. You will find everything you are looking.

No early warning signs of tranny failure. Only thing some people had was no reverse or drive before it failed, but at that point, it's too late. The RX is now old enough that if it were to experience tranny problems, it already has had them fixed.

Timing belt every 90k/7 years, whichever comes first.

Check out the high mileage thread, there are many people with over 200k miles still on their original transmission (including me).

 

you da man Hypervish.....

 

I try!

Haha.

 

One early sign of the transmission failure is a slight jerky action when gas is applied after the reverse gear is engaged.