Hello I am looking at buying a 2006 Lexus RX 330. AWD. I had a few questions from a member who might have the same year vehicle. First question is does this year and model Lexus have a Vehicle Dynamics Controls (VDC). Second is how does this vehicle do in the snow I have heard conflicting reviews of the Lexus AWD system I currently own a Subaru so my expectations might be a bit high. Lastly how do you like your vehicle overall and how reliable has it been?

Thanks

 

Welcome to Club Lexus, RXFreak.

The term Lexus uses is Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and not VDC. Same idea of using the antilock brake and traction control systems to help control wheel spin and slip. How it works may be somewhat different from Subaru. This is standard on the RX.

The RX does not have the same type of dual range AWD system found in more rugged vehicles such as the GX or LX or what I had in my Subarus in the past. The AWD RX330 is split 50/50 front/rear on a permanent basis except for when slip is noticed and it will adjust torque to the wheels with the most traction.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...awd-is-it.html

The RX does not have the ground clearance nor capabilities to be an extreme condition vehicle like other AWD SUVs. It will, however, easily get you through most weather events. I have routinely driven in 6" or more of snow in PA on unplowed back roads in my FWD RX with standard all-season tires without problem. Anything more is just driving common sense. If the weather is very bad outside, do not go out in it. Am sure our northern and Canadian friends will chime in further on this topic.

You can search the online Owner's Manuals for more information here:
https://secure.drivers.lexus.com/lex...nual-search.do

Such as:
http://drivers.lexus.com/t3Portal/do...9U/pdf/3-1.pdf

While not directly asked in your questions, you might consider purchasing a 2007 RX350 instead of 2006 RX330 if possible. Starting with the 2007 the RX started using a timing chain instead of a timing belt. The latter had a service interval of 90K miles.

Reliability and known issues are routinely discussed here at Club Lexus. AWD RX, for example, have a tendency for trouble with rear wheel bearings more frequent than FWD RX. Many new members come in asking these same questions -- you need only search and read. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the search capabilities of the site. You will keep yourself busy for hours.

 

I own a 2006 AWD. bulletproof. Jamie.

 

I have an 06 Lexus rx330 and Love it
it can stand with the best when it comes to snow

I am also thinking about selling mines which may turn out to be a good deal for you
I have a Black AWD with Tan Leather RX330 with 60 K miles
Clean Car fax

It's a sweet truck and we loved it
If you have any questions about the truck let me know or inbox me

 

I would love to buy it but I have to either sell my Subie or trade it in I prefer to trade it just to eliminate the hassle of trying to sell myself. Otherwise I would jump on the offer I am leaning towards getting the Lexus RX 330 or RX 350 versus other vehicles I have seen simply because it has great reliability and a wonderful ride.

 

RXFreak,

Our 2006 AWD has been problem free for 84,0000 mi. That being said, any used vehicle should be checked out by your mechanic for abuse and neglect. Can't tell you if the AWD is good in snow - not that much in Washington, DC.

Good luck.

Tom

 

I had an 04 330 AWD and have driven it in all types of weather including heavy snow and had no problem what so ever. Of course I know how to drive in snow and have been doing it since 2 wheel rear drive on bias ply tires.

 

I have an 04 AWD and I love it, I have no complaints about it.

 

I have an 05, very good dependable vehicle. And so was my 2001 RX.