Hi all, I have a 2011 Lexus RX350 base model white color. I am the only owner and purchase this vehicle new. Never had any accidents but I've always noticed rust spots by the tailgate where it meets the rear bumper. Is this happening to anyone? It looks like the paint from the edge of the tailgate is rubbing off on the bumper and causing the bare metal to be exposed for rust.

Can this be fixed with adjusting the rear bumper lower or perhaps adjusting the liftgate?

 

Are the roads in your area heavily salted during the winter months? If so, that may be the culprit.

 

Go to a body shop. They can adjust the tailgate so it does not rub the bumper. They can also remove the rust and repaint the damaged rusty area. Get a few estimates. Estimates are free, just drive up to a few places and tell them what you need. It should be an inexpensive repair.

 

I have the exact same issue with a 2011 Silver RX350. The fit at the top of the hatch looks perfect so I've always assumed it was warpage of the plastic piece of the bumper pushing up causing the rubbing of the paint. I've DIY'd a replacement tailgate on a different car but been too lazy to attempt the adjustment on this one.

 

I wipe that area often on my RX2015. I notice stuff get trap underneath when the hatch close and cannot be cleaned with a car wash so it is prone to rust. Just check it last night turned out it's part of the bumper and it's all plastic so worse thing that can happen is paint chipping off.