SpectraBlu

iTrader: (1)

Hey guys/gals I'm a 2nd gen GS owner and was hoping you guys could tell me what are the common problems or things to check when looking for a 2nd gen rx to buy? My girl wants to buy one after driving my gs and realizing how awesome Lexus vehicles are. Any input would be greatly appreciated, thanks.

NVAKeith

iTrader: (1)

From reading this forum, the power steering rack leaking is a common issue as well as headlight condensation. The latter is covered by a warranty enhancement program at the moment. The 3.3 may be more reliable as there have been oil leak and water pump issues cropping up on the 3.5.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-rx-350-a.html

SpectraBlu

iTrader: (1)

Cool, thanks for the info. I'll have her check out 330's then.

nipponbird

Just keep in mind the 350 don't need cambelt replacement, which means a huge advantage.

SpectraBlu

iTrader: (1)

What's the cambelt, the timing belt?

SpectraBlu

iTrader: (1)

Ahhh, I see what your saying, the 350 has a timing chain instead of a belt.

Ants350

iTrader: (1)

350 is very good I got 130k on it still gonna strong.

retiredguy

Let's not forget about the oil cooler line problem. It hit my wife yesterday on the highway. Luckily, she shut it down immediately and there was still oil showing on the stick when it was towed to the shop.

roadbike56

Lexus dealers offer a comprehensive check of any RX. I think it cost $200, YMMV. It includes a print out of the vehicles recorded history more comprehensive than the abbreviated version found on Carfax. I had our 09 checked out before we purchased it. It got a completely clean bill of health except they recommended an immediate change of the cabin filter. The selling dealer agreed to pay for the filter.
While I was at the Lexus dealer another RX was being inspected by another buyer. They provided a laundry list of needed repairs totaling a couple thousand dollars. Money well spent for that prospective buyer who balked at the sale on the spot. Also made me feel good about the inspection I just paid for on my prospective vehicle, which we purchased.
I would strongly recommend having any used vehicle inspected by a mechanic familiar with that vehicle, especially one that is not covered under warranty.

rxonmymind

Problems? There ain't no stinkn problems here... BMW? Now that's prooooblems.

lexusfan05

Even with timing chain on 350, doesn't water pump need replacement at some point? I think it's equally expensive as a timing belt because of labor.

NVAKeith

iTrader: (1)

Lexus hasn't published a service interval for the 3.5L water pump, ours started leaking after 90k miles.

rxonmymind

It's always a good idea to change out the water pump at 100k even for the mythical, bullet proof standard of Lexus. It's the "heart" of the engine. In my ZERO problem Toyota Sienna I changed it out at 150k. Might be sooner for Lexus. The irony. Same.goes with the "lifetime" transmission fluid. Don't believe the b.s. It need to be changed and ESPECIALLY if your taxing the tranny by hauling boats, trailers etc. Nothing is "lifetime".

evident

link to water pump issues? oil leak is from rubber vvt and oil hoses

SpectraBlu

iTrader: (1)

Thanks for all the responses guys