Lexus SUV Problems: 5 Most-Common Issues (Explained)

Lexus offers some very attractive luxury SUVs that compete well against its German counterparts – and many other respected vehicles.

If you’re one of the many people considering purchasing one of the various Lexus SUVs available, it’s essential that you know both the advantages and disadvantages of such a choice.

Below, you’ll find some of the most common complaints about Lexus SUVs, along with how to address them and more.

We also have an article with 0-60 MPH times for all Lexus models.

1. Most Lexus SUVs Face Oil Leaks

Oil leaks are one of the most common issues with all Lexus vehicles, especially those made between 2007 and 2015.

These leaks are typically due to a ruptured oil line. And when the line ruptures, it leads to a loss of oil pressure, which can impact driving.

You can address this problem with a visit to your mechanic, who can replace the oil line and clean the undercarriage.

It’s essential that you make the trip to your mechanic as soon as possible after noticing the leak or getting the low engine oil message.

If you don’t and continue driving your Lexus SUV, the engine can fail completely – so make repairs a priority. Speaking of Lexus SUVs, check out some Lexus LX problems.

2. AC May Stop Working Properly or At All

Driving around in the hot summer without AC is not something anyone wants to deal with, but it has happened to many Lexus RX350 owners.

If you’re looking for a Lexus SUV, make sure to check our article about the best and worst years for Lexus RX models.

There are a few different reasons this happens, including those listed below.

Air filter:

Sometimes, AC issues come simply from a dirty air filter in the cabin. Start by cleaning your air filter. If that doesn’t work – or work well enough – change the filter completely. It’s a good idea to plan to replace it every 10,000 miles or so.

Condenser:

The air conditioning condenser goes through a lot, so it’s not unusual that grime, small debris, and bugs might build up on it or in it. Your mechanic can help clean it, as well as replace it if it’s broken.

Evaporator: 

Your evaporator catches any dirt and particles that your cabin air filter doesn’t. Sometimes, it catches so much that air can no longer flow through. Let a mechanic help you clean it.

Leaking refrigerant:

There are several areas in your AC system that can develop holes that let refrigerant leak out. These can be difficult to find and seal, which is why it’s usually best to let a mechanic handle them.

Compressor or blower motor:

Your compressor and blower motor are two major components of the AC system. If they fail, you’ll need to have them replaced, as they typically can’t be repaired. Remember to explore some Lexus GX problems.

3. Remote Start Doesn’t Operate Properly

Remote start is a function that many people love, but some Lexus owners have found that it doesn’t always work.

According to Lexus, their Remote Vehicle Start feature does not work if any of the following are true:

• Your Lexus Remote services subscription isn’t active
• Your vehicle doesn’t have enough fuel
• The SUV doesn’t have a strong enough cellular connection
• You’re not within a reasonable range of your SUV
• Your key fob – or second key fob – is inside the car
• The doors aren’t locked or they have been locked manually

If your Remote Vehicle Start isn’t working, begin by checking those items.

If none of those are true, you might need to visit the dealership for reprogramming.

You may also want to check our list of Lexus models with the most recalls.

4. Some Sunroofs Suddenly Crack and Explode

Some Lexus SUV owners have had quite a shock when they’re driving and the sunroof suddenly explodes. This is actually common among all vehicles that use tempered glass for their sunroofs.

While tempered glass is stronger than traditional glass, that doesn’t mean it’s indestructible.

The question is why the glass would just suddenly shatter. And the answer is that it’s not usually a sudden incident.

Instead, it is an accumulation of small impacts – even while being installed – along with the vibrations of driving, temperature changes, and more.

The best way to prevent this from happening to you is to be sure you keep all regular maintenance appointments.

And while you’re there, ask for your sunroof to be checked for any signs of damage. Meanwhile, explore some Lexus NX problems.

5. Some Airbags and Airbag Inflators Are Faulty

There have been two separate recalls regarding airbags for Lexus SUVs, as well as some other vehicles.

The first is for any Lexus, Toyota, or Scion that was made between 2002 and 2017. The airbag inflators in these vehicles have exploded when the airbags deployed, sending shards of metal out into the cabin.

If you own one of these vehicles manufactured during that timeframe, simply take it to the dealership where repairs will be taken care of for free.

The second recall applied specifically to Lexus LX 570s and Toyota Land Cruisers manufactured between 2008 and 2019. A faulty sensor in these vehicles prevents the airbag from deploying in a crash.

Typically, you’ll know if you have an impacted vehicle if your passenger airbag indicator says “Off.”

Even if it doesn’t, though, and you own a LX 570 made in one of the specified years, take it to a dealership for repairs.

We also have an article here listing the cars with the most airbags.

General Pros and Cons of Lexus SUVs

There are both many great reasons to buy a Lexus SUV and several things to keep an eye out for.

Pros

Below are some of the most lovable and appreciated advantages.

1. Modern Technology Included in Every One

Each Lexus SUV is made with up-to-date technology, and owners love the modern capabilities.

The 2023 Lexus NX, considered a luxury SUV, comes with:

• a concierge multimedia center,
• digital key,
• Wireless Apple CarPlay,
• Wireless Android Auto,
• Head-Up Display,
• and more.

However, although it’s a great car, you may want to know about the Lexus NX’s best and worst years.

2. Great Mix of Luxury, Power, and Performance

It’s difficult to deny that Lexus produces some sleek vehicles with impressive interiors.

Often, having a vehicle that looks so good means compromising in the power and performance departments – but that’s not the case here.

Lexus SUVs might not provide the same power as workforce pickup trucks, but they aren’t too bad for a luxury SUV.

Some models come with a V8 engine, as much as 308 hp, and can tow up to 6,500 lbs.

3. Affordable Pricing Makes the Dream of Ownership a Reality

Like all vehicles, the exact pricing varies depending on which specific Lexus SUV you choose, as well as the trim package.

However, you can purchase some models for a little over $30,000.

Maintenance is typically affordable, as Toyota owns Lexus.

While it’s cheaper to maintain a Toyota, the Lexus side of the business doesn’t cost much more.

Even keeping your car fueled is affordable for most Lexus SUV models. For example, the 2022 Lexus UX gets 29 mpg city and 37 mpg highway.

4. Continual Improvement Makes Each New SUV Better Than Before

Lexus is dedicated to producing great vehicles, which is why the company is constantly improving on previous designs.

And even though some of these SUVs come with issues, Lexus takes the necessary steps to address them.

Cons

The most common complaints of Lexus SUV owners include the following:

• Oil leaks that – when not addressed promptly – can cause complete engine failure
• AC might only work in bursts or stop working altogether
• The compressor and blower motor might need to be replaced
• The Remote Vehicle Start function may stop working
• Airbags might not deploy
• Airbag inflators might explode
• Sunroof might shatter

Meanwhile, explore some common Lexus UX problems.

What Do the Reviews Say?

“The car met all my needs. It has a good exterior style. It has very smooth running. The electronics are top class. It is user friendly without making it too complicated to operate.”

Source: cars.com

“Comfort and a smooth quiet ride defines the 2022 Lexus RX 350. This Lexus has convenient user friendly technology and visual appeal. The safety features add next level confidence to the pleasurable driving experience.”

Source: edmunds.com

What’s the Resale Value of the Lexus SUVs ?

The resale value of these luxury SUVs can vary greatly, depending on the location, the exact model, the trim package, and the mileage.

However, to give you an idea, the following are examples of resale prices.

Sources:

Edmunds.com / 2022 Lexus RX 350 Consumer Reviews

Cars.com / Lexus Consumer Reviews

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ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.