javalogica

I am ready to buy my first Lexus RX. I've got it narrowed down to a 2004 RX 330 with AWD and 68K miles and a 2009 RX350 with FWD and 93K miles. Both look great inside and out. I am in Northern California. Thanks!

5gears-IS

iTrader: (5)

2009 as it is much more updated with most bugs fixed also, a big big one NO serpentine timing belt!
It has chain timing belt

lexus997

+1 for the 2009 model since it has a timing chain and not a timing belt. The timing chain should not need replaced, whereas timing belts do need replaced.


Have you ever gotten stuck in a FWD vehicle? If no, then FWD may be sufficient. That is your call.


You did not provide details about the cosmetics or how well they have been cared for (or neglected), so you will have to make the call on that.

roadbike56

True the 09 doesn't have a timing belt, but the 04 doesn't have the rubber hose line problems going to the oil cooler does it! OP, you might want to read up on the thread about the 2007 RX Oil Line concern (includes all 2nd gen Lexus 350s) before buying a RX 350. As for me, if I had it to do over, I'd still buy the RX 350, but ours has less than 60K on the clock.

roadbike56

See if this works
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-pictures.html

Rainbird

Buy the RX350. The oil hose failure is actually a rare occurrence.

lexus997

And the previous owner may have already had it replaced.

5gears-IS

iTrader: (5)

Just check the Lexus maintenance history log using the vin number and you can easy check if it was replaced as most 08's and up have been replaced. If not, get the metal one and have it replaced as preventive maintenance.

Check here;
https://secure.drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrivers/home

Ours was changed around 60k and it still looks look new upon close inspection @ 92k.

Get the updated 09 and don't look back....

lexus997

Did you buy one yet?