These solar-powered battery chargers must have improved quite a bit during the last decade or so. I had a buddy in rural Texas who ordered one (probably on Amazon or eBay) back in the 2010 / 2011 timeframe and it wasn't worth diddly-squat. He always said he wouldn't even trust it to charge up a flashlight battery.

 

The RX (or any Toyota-Lexus) power outlet, also known as the lighter outlet, is off and does not work to charge the battery when the car is off. You have to connect the charger to the battery or OBD2 plug.

muni - check if a Toyota dealer will sell and install a battery for less money than the Lexus dealer. They can handle the technical issues (of which there are virtually none) as the RX is a mechanical twin to the Toyota Highlander. Several members have had their RX's serviced at Toyota dealers.

 

on my replacement battery search, toyota rudely told me they won't & legally can't work on the lexus

 

I got the impression that your battery is under warranty from Lexus. So you should stay with Lexus for warranty reimbursement. Here in USA, I was once told that if as owner you are traveling or stranded, purchase replacement battery and turn in your receipt for reimbursement. But that was many years ago.

Lexus of USA is different from Toyota USA. They may share the same parent but they have a fence between them. If you are in a bind and Lexus dealership is not nearby, Lexus of USA may authorize a visit to Toyota. Within the same town I have heard that they will not typically service Lexus vehicles at Toyota. There are some exceptions too, so call in advance.

For a generic part, in this case a battery, is a shared part then one can walk up to Toyota parts counter and make a purchase. For vehicle specific item you would need a part number or drill down from equivalent Toyota Brand model. Vin number will not work.

For batteries and Tires, I do not go to the dealership.

Salim
PS: Members who live near border, can you please share your experience regarding cross border warranty work.

 

LoL. There's another dealer to note and stay away from, FOREVER.

 

are you not near a Canadian Tire store? They can install one for you. I replaced mine myself with a Napa battery from Ideal Supply.
jim

 

Here I go quoting myself:
It seems some theirs have found a way to go around immobilizer .

Salim