Hey guys,

I am looking to at a 2004+ RX330 for my girlfriend. Looking in the 12-13k price range and hopefully under 100k.

Are there any differences between the 2004 and 2005 model, I spoke to someone recently that told me the first year of the RX's had poor quality, although I am not sure which generation they meant. My family has had several Toyota's and Lexus's and has always been happy with the realibility and quality, although most of these are older models.

I know the timing belt would need to be done at 90+ but besides that is there anything I should watch out for?

Thanks in advance.

 

not sure why anyone would knock the 04 being the first year of this bodystyle... my old man's is very reliable. Outside of routine maintenance [and some preventative on my end since i buy parts] it needed one wheel bearing and the A/c compressor and now a windshield washer pump [combined less than 500$] within 5years of ownership isn't too bad... and closer to 110k miles as of now. Oh yeah, the CD changer died this past summer, he never listens to CD's so it wasn't imperative to fix [really common issue]

The difference, as you requested is the 04-06 used the 3.3L motors that are equipped with a timing belt [must replace around 90k] whereas the 07-09 had the 3.5L updated version of the motor where it used a timing chain [one cost less than a timing belt, but still needs to be checked at different intervals for adjustment].

Of course, in your case, whether or not its FWD or AWD would make a difference in price too...

 

I've had an '04 since '07 and have had no problems with it. Many times I've been tempted to trade it in for a newer model, but I don't because there is just nothing wrong with the car. It remains quiet, reliable and comfortable. What more could you want?
(. . .Bluetooth . . .)

 

Welcome to the forum, olegd88.

Differences between those model years are minor.

I'm still driving my 04 RX330 and it will be 10 years ago that I bought it this November. I've owned a lot of cars over some 50+ years of driving and my RX330 is the most reliable vehicle I've owned. My 91 MR2 is still looking and running great too at 22 YO, but it's a garage queen now. The RX has been my daily driver and gets me where I want to go in comfort and style. One data point does not make a consensus, but I love my RX 330. I will likely replace it this fall just because I want the newer technology. I'll very likely buy another RX.

Some items that I've seen mentioned here a few times:

• Motor driven side mirrors stop working.
• Occasionally a radiator leak is mentioned.
• Occasionally a CD player failure is mentioned.
• Occasionally the rear liftgate struts are mentioned.
• Occasionally headlight leaks are mentioned.

If you are buying from a Lexus dealership, you can ask for a printout of the vehicle's service record. You can also register the VIN at Lexus.com and see the service record for all work performed at any Lexus dealership.

 

04 models could have radiator leaking. At some point in 05 radiator was improved.
Mine 05 has improved version.
Very reliable, I had one rear bearing (actually hub) replaced, timing belt also replaced along with other two belts.
Of course, some breaks job.
It's time to replace liftgate struts...
Yeah, rattling dashboard
Otherwise, I like it very much.

 

Thank you guys! I appreciate the detailed responses!

Will definitely be picking up one soon. Now to find a good one in the North East..

 

Just personal opinion but even if you live in the NE you might look for a car that has spent it's life in the southwest, Florida or CA to avoid the unbelievable damage that salt causes to cars in your part of the world. I think a 6 year old southern car has twice the life potential of a salted northern car of the same age.

Florida is full of nice used RX and just a 100 buck plane ride away and then a nice road trip back home.

 

I agree with Carver. You are probably better off getting a used RX that hasn't spent all of it's time in the snow belt. The downside is that it will cost you money to go someplace else, find a car, and then drive or ship it back to you. Also, if you buy one outside of the snow belt, you will probably have to purchase snow tires for it (which you still might have to do with one in the snow belt). However, salt and the corrosion that it causes does a number on all cars, so it might just be worth spending the extra money to have a rust free car.

 

We spent a little more (17k) for a really clean 04 w/nav from japan and are very satisfied so far. Everyone who sees it from 15' thinks it's a new car. All service was done at dealer.

 

I have an 04 and I love it...the ride is very smooth...I have done some upgrades such as new headunit (dvd) with rear dvd for the kids. tinted windows and remote start. I was a mechanic for a few years for Lexus dealership here. I bought the 04 last year with 60k on it, and wouldn't ever look back at it. Love the car and the car loves us!