Hi, we have a 2024 UX 250H and the breaks have always been very touchy. More so than any car I've ever driven. Which can make it even more treacherous on snow/ice. I asked the dealer if they could be adjusted. They said no, the breaks could not be adjusted. I find this a little hard to believe. Is that true?

 

Is the car your first hybrid or were you driving something on the larger side before? Hybrids have different braking than normal cars and will take some getting used to. Also the UX is less than a half ton in weight versus the RX350 and NX series or larger SUVs so it'll probably feel quicker to respond in general.

 

Yes, we have had many small cars comparable in size, although first hybrid. Although touchy, have no problems with the brakes in regular weather. Only on ice when they seem to automatically lock at a slight touch. Just thought it was odd that hybrid brakes could not be adjusted so, wanted to know if that was true.

 

The dealer is right that there's no mechanical adjustment, but put it in Eco mode as it softens the regenerative braking response and makes the pedal feel much more progressive. Also ask the dealer specifically about a brake ECU software update, as Lexus has issued calibration updates on some hybrids to improve pedal feel. That's different from a mechanical adjustment and they may not volunteer that information.

 

We have a '25 UX300. Having had four hybrids prior, the brakes seem normal to us but I understand your first hybrid experience. In that kind of weather, I suggest running in B rather than D, in many circumstances you won't need to hit the brakes as soon or with as much pressure.