Russian motorists have long appreciated the Lexus RX300. This car combines high comfort, excellent image and very stylish appearance. In addition, it is very reliable. But for all this you have to pay a considerable amount.

Few people can afford a new car, but a used car that is 3-7 years old is much more affordable. But is it worth buying a used Lexus RX300?

The first car with this appearance was presented in 1997. Then it had a different name (Toyota Harrier) and was available only to residents of the Land of the Rising Sun. And one year later, the Japanese introduced the Lexus RX300, which at first was sold exclusively on the North American market. However, two years later it began to be supplied to Europe. And this was a step in the right direction, since the car was appreciated not only by Americans, but also by Europeans. First of all, buyers liked the design of the car, which still looks very stylish to this day. Actually, exactly appearance often became decisive in the choice of this car.

As for the Lexus RX300 present on the Russian market, most of them come from Canada or the USA. The Canadian version is considered to be somewhat more in line with our realities, since the lighting technology of this option meets European requirements. True, European Lexus RX300 can also be found, and they have some differences from their American counterparts. First of all, it is worth noting wheel disks by 17 inches and a stiffer suspension. True, it is quite a bit stiffer, but this is enough to significantly improve the car’s handling at high speeds. There are some differences in the car's interior. For example, European RX300s have a Touch-screen monitor, but may not have seat memory.

In view of the above, car enthusiasts often do not know which option to give preference to. It is difficult to answer this question in a nutshell. It is believed that cars from America have higher mileage and end up on Russian market in somewhat worse condition than the Europeans, who, if you believe public opinion, come to us in almost perfect condition. It is possible that there is some truth in this, but when it comes to a specific car, everything can change exactly the opposite.

But what can be said almost for sure is that the Lexus RX300 from the United States is, as a rule, cheaper than the “Europeans”. This is explained, firstly, by the fact that the Lexus RX300 in America is initially cheaper than in Europe, and secondly, by the high exchange rate of the euro.

Just two factors, and as a result, an American Lexus will cost 3-5 thousand dollars less. By the way, if you want to save more, you need to look for versions with only front axle drive, which were once sold in the USA. True, the purchase of such cars is not recommended, since it is still, although a “parquet”, an SUV and should remain an SUV and, accordingly, have all-wheel drive.

The Lexus RX300 has several trim levels, but there is no need to worry about this. Even those RX300s that are most sparsely equipped have several airbags, a CD player and a set of electric drives. It is usually stated that in basic configuration Lexus RX300 has a leather interior. But in fact, the chairs of the European version are often trimmed with velor, while american cars always trimmed with leather. In addition to everything you need, the RX300 has such things as a compass, remote control garage door or navigation system. The ergonomics of the interior, as well as the availability of free space, are also not satisfactory, although some particularly demanding owners complained that the seats, which lack lateral support, are not good enough.

A huge advantage of the Lexus RX300 is that despite the abundance of various electrics, it works without problems or breakdowns, even on those cars that already have solid mileage. Of course, they can also break, but these failures are not widespread. It makes sense to pay attention only to the front “turn signals” on cars from the USA, which are located in the bumpers: sometimes the wiring in them rots. However, to restore the turn signals, you will have to shell out quite a bit – about $30. Actually, this is the only drawback that the car owners and mechanics could remember. The fact that metal does not rot is a given, just like high price spare parts, which is quite natural for a car like the Lexus RX300.

The RX300 was equipped only with a 3.0-liter “six” with characteristic Toyota system changes in valve timing VVT-i. In American versions, this engine develops 223 hp, while the “European” versions are somewhat weaker (201 hp). However, it should also be taken into account that in both options the power was calculated in accordance with different standards. It is possible that this is precisely why, in practice, no noticeable difference in the power of the “Europeans” and the “Americans” is noticeable. In any case, it is impossible to determine on the go which car is from Europe and which is from the States. Be that as it may, the car remains very fast and reaches a hundred kilometers in just 9 seconds. And here maximum speed artificially limited at 180 km/h: the creators of the car decided that it was simply dangerous to gain high speed in this SUV.

The big advantage of the Lexus RX300 is its modest fuel consumption for an SUV - in city driving conditions it consumes approximately 12-14 liters per 100 km.

According to experienced mechanics (who have worked with the Lexus RX300 since the first years of its production), there are no serious problems with the car’s engine. During its entire existence, there were only a few cases of its “death,” and each time the owner of the car himself was to blame.

Lexus RX300 early years releases having high mileage and fairly worn-out engines began to appear on the Russian market only in 2004-2005. However, even in this case, the reason for the dubious standing power unit there were former owners of these cars. Most likely, the owners of the cars did not undergo technical inspection regularly, and the oil was used of low quality. As a rule, this is typical for American cars: in this country, young people tend to use their last money to buy a high-status car, and then “cut the corner” on its use. However, even with such machines, only the rear crankshaft oil seal needs to be replaced.

True, this operation is technically quite complex and therefore the replacement cost is about $550. Another (albeit small) problem is the muffler burning out in the middle part, where the corrugated insert “gives up”. However, this only happens on copies of the first years of production and the cost of repairs is quite moderate (about $200). What else will the RX300 owner have to fork out for when carrying out repairs and diagnostics of this car?

On gasoline Russian production Platinum candles sometimes quickly fade into oblivion, but almost anyone can spend about $90 a year on a new set. In addition, many Lexus owners RX300 is equipped with regular spark plugs for $20-30, which also work quite well. Manufacturers recommend changing the timing belt every 100,000 km. mileage Experts from Russia also agree with this, since, in their opinion, the belt is very reliable. Replacing it along with drive belts and rollers will cost $250-300.

It’s not easy to learn how to choose a gearbox, like an engine - only a four-speed one is installed on all cars automatic transmission. It is extremely reliable and seems to know no wear and tear.

However, this is not a reason not to check it before buying a used car. If the previous owner was not too caring, then the purchase new box or repairs will cost 1.5-2.5 thousand dollars.

The car has a constant all-wheel drive with torque distribution on two axles in a 50/50 ratio. In addition, there is a center differential with a viscous coupling. But it’s still not worth climbing into impenetrable mud, since there is no mechanical interlocks, nor low gears. In terms of reliability, both the transmission and the all-wheel drive system are very good and, as a rule, do not need repairs.

As for the chassis of the Lexus RX300, everything is fine here too and no expensive problems are found. The suspension, both front and rear, is completely independent and, for all its complexity, is very reliable, especially if you drive not off-road, but on asphalt, for which the car is mostly designed. And although spare parts for the chassis cost a lot, their cost still cannot be called fabulous. For example, you will need to spend $80-100 to install stabilizer struts and bushings. They last, depending on the quality of the roads and driving style, for 40-70 thousand km. Shock absorber support bearings have a service life of 100-120 thousand kilometers and replacing them with installation will cost one hundred dollars each.

But the shock absorbers themselves can last over 150-180 thousand km. For new ones you will have to pay a rather modest amount, which is approximately equal to the cost of shock absorbers for simpler foreign cars. For one set for the left/right wheel you need to pay 150-200 dollars.

Actually, on a car that is five years old, other parts most likely will not break. But if the car was not used very carefully, then it may be necessary to replace the rear transverse rods assembled with silent blocks. The cost of this operation (in light of the cost of the machine and the service life of the parts) is quite moderate - $300-400. The front control arms with ball joints on many cars have never been changed at all and, according to car experts, they can safely serve for another 200-250 thousand km. In addition, it should be noted that ball joints in this case, you can change it separately from the levers.

There are no special complaints about the performance of the brakes, and the discs need to be changed approximately every 60-80 thousand km. The cost of one disc will be from 150 to 200 dollars. Of course, you should purchase at least two discs at once, and it is better to immediately install a new set of pads (cost about $120). As a result, it turns out that it will take about $500 to upgrade the front brakes and about the same amount will need to be paid for the rear brakes.

Slightly deviating from the topic, we can say that the Lexus RX300 stands apart among used cars. The fact is that it has almost no problems that would be worth paying close attention to and that could scare away the buyer. In addition, this car rarely breaks down, which only increases its authority among car enthusiasts. As a result, the only disadvantage of the Lexus RX300 is its rather high price. In addition, this car is clearly in no hurry to become cheaper, and after, say, two years, its value will decrease quite a bit.

From Lexus history RX300

The car was introduced in 1998, although a car with the same shape appeared in Japan a year earlier under the name Toyota Harrier. The Harrier was equipped with three engines to choose from: 2 liters (140 hp), 2.4 liters (160 hp) and 3.5 liters (220 hp). But the first “three hundredth” was equipped only three-liter engine V6 223 hp and automatic transmission.

At first, the car was sold only in the States, where, in addition to the classic all-wheel drive version, it was also produced in a front-wheel drive version. The fame of a good car also spread to Europe, where it also began to be imported, albeit unofficially. The company's management took this circumstance into account, and in 2000 decided to start selling the Lexus RX300 in the Old World, slightly modernizing it to European conditions. The engine began to produce 201 hp, the suspension was “tightened”, plus a few other not very important changes.

In 2003, a new generation of Lexus RX300 was introduced, which was sold in the States as the Lexus RX330. The differences were that the RX330 had 233 hp. against 204 forces on the “three hundredth”. No special external differences were noticed, and this is understandable, since motorists liked the design of the first Lexus RX300 so much that the designers decided not to look for an alternative to the already successful find. The equipment of the new generation cars has become even more impressive, and air suspension has also appeared.

Another year later (in 2004), the most equipped Lexus to date was introduced. It was a hybrid Lexus RX400H based on the RX300/330. His power point combined an electric motor and a 3.3-liter gasoline V6. IN total The power plant is capable of squeezing out 272 hp, which roughly corresponds to a 4-liter V8 engine.

In 2006 it went on sale a new version this series with a 3.5 liter engine, called Lexus RX350. The 3.5-liter V6 engine develops 276 horsepower and 342 Nm. At the same time, the developers especially emphasize that new model not only more powerful than its predecessors, but also more economical: fuel consumption should decrease by about 8%, amounting to approximately 11.2 liters/100 km.

Lexus RX

Lexus RX medium crossover, produced since 1997. In the production line Japanese company The RX fits between the compact NX and the body-on-frame. In the Japanese market, the Lexus RX was sold under the name Toyota Harrier; after the release of the third generation, these models began to differ.
RX competitors: Range Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz ML, BMW X5, Volkswagen Touareg, Infiniti QX70 (FX) /QX60, Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, Nissan Murano and the like.
Lexus RX engines are very diverse and quite powerful.
The first generation was equipped with a three-liter 1MZ engine, while the similar Harrier used inline fours. The second RX used the previous 1MZ V6, as well as the 3.3 liter 3MZ. A V6 3.5 liter was also added to them. - 2GR. In addition to the usual engines, a 3MZ hybrid + electric motor was also used. Lexus RX III used inline four-cylinder engines 1AR, 2.7 liter, as well as 3.5 liter 2GR-FE. There was also a hybrid version of the RX450h with a 2GR-FXE engine. Lexus RX engines of the 4th generation are the same 2GR-FE and hybrid 2GR-FXE.
Below you will find everything you need specifications Lexus RX engines, their problems and the most frequent malfunctions, diseases of Lexus RX engines, their causes and repair.In addition, you will find out what kind of oil is recommended to use, its change intervals and volume. Tuning the PX engine: how to simply and rationally increase power without losing much in reliability, as well as a lot of other useful information.

One example of such popularity is the Lexus rx300, a Japanese-American beauty with a memorable appearance, which was liked by residents on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. The debut show of the model took place in 1997, and it entered mass production a year later, in 1998. Initially, only North American countries were considered as the main sales market, but already in 2000. The car began to be sold in Europe, and quite successfully.

The main “trump card” that explains such interest in the model was its original, catchy design. Thanks to this, even today, after many years, it looks quite decent compared to the new generation of SUVs.

First about the first generation

“Presentable” handsome man with elegant features

With dimensions: 4580 x 1816 x 1669 mm, the first generation of the car cannot be called miniature, but it also does not look like a “rude brute”. Belonging to the luxury class has an effect, even if not the most high level. The body lines are pleasantly soft and smooth, which gives the car an elegant, “expensive” look. The “off-road” character of the Lexus RX 300 is emphasized by roof rails, fairly powerful bumpers located at the front and rear, as well as a spectacular radiator grille with a nameplate emblazoned on it depicting the brand’s logo.

On domestic roads you can most often see RX 300 of “American” or “Canadian” origin, although “European” ones are also not so rare among them. Moreover, among the distinctive features that the latter possess, it is worth noting:

• the presence of seventeen-inch wheels;
• greater rigidity and strength of their suspension;
• higher cost.

The first generation of the model was produced in several configuration options, and the poorest of them, the basic version, included:

• a complete set of electric drives;
• airbags;
• CD player;
• leather seat upholstery (for American versions), etc.

At the same time, all car systems function quite smoothly and accurately and do not “glitch”. Moreover, this also applies to cars that have a fairly decent mileage.

Among the small problems with the external part that can “float out” during the operation of the car, it is worth noting the rotting of the wiring in the turn signals located in the bumpers. As a rule, people from the American continent “sin” with this. You can get rid of this trouble without much effort, and the cost of work to restore the functionality of the turn signals will be a quite acceptable amount for your wallet: about $30.

Lots of space, lots of gadgets

As for the ergonomics of the cabin, there is nothing particularly to complain about. There is plenty of space there, and besides, the seats are quite comfortable and comfortable, they are electrically adjustable, so that you can sit perfectly on them during the trip. The driver's seat has a travel range of 17 mm, so it can accommodate a person of any height. Information content dashboard- high, all devices are located in such a way that they are really very simple and convenient to use. Another positive point: high quality sound insulation, which is why the cabin is always quiet and comfortable, you can’t hear any engine noise or extraneous sounds.

Some motorists, however, note minor problems with the leather interior trim, which wears out a little on the folds and sides over time. But this is more of a quibble than a categorical remark. In addition, such unpleasant phenomena can be completely avoided by caring for your “iron friend” properly. And, in general, the interior of the car deserves a strong and solid “five”.

"Driving force

The first generation of Lexus RX 300 was equipped with a single engine option: a 3.0-liter 24-valve 223-horsepower V6 (201-horsepower in the European version) with a variable valve timing function, tested and proven successful on other members of the Toyota family.

This “heart” under the hood makes the car quite playful and fast, “forcing” it to pick up speed of 100 km/h in 9 seconds. It would seem that the maximum speed should also have a very decent value, but not in this case. Manufacturers decided that too much acceleration of a car of this class could be dangerous for the driver and others, so they artificially limited its maximum permissible speed to a “decent” and “sedate” 180 km/h.

It is especially pleasant that such a car, which has very impressive parameters and power, has relatively low fuel consumption. According to reviews from the owners, when slowly moving along city streets, it “eats” about 13-14 liters. On the highway, this figure fluctuates around the mark: 11-16 liters (this is at a speed of 110 and 160 km/h, respectively).

According to the majority of fans of the model, they simply cannot say anything negative and critical about the car’s engine.

Chassis and gearbox

In addition, the technical equipment of the first generation RX 300 included:

• a permanent all-wheel drive system equipped with a center differential, which was locked using a viscous coupling.
• “automatic” with four stages;
• disc brakes, the front of which were ventilated.

As for the driving characteristics of the car, they can be “dubbed” “somewhat specific”. Problems arise with its maneuverability when reaching high speeds. The car seems to begin to float while driving, nod off when braking (and even replacing shock absorbers and springs does not solve this problem), but on the “broken” asphalt surface the RX 300 feels just great. So, where everyone is “trampling” barely, afraid to gain more than 50 km/h, you can ride it with a proud look, having gained at least a hundred.

Among the features faced by the owners of this stylish and luxurious luxury car, one can note the possibility of burning out the middle part of its muffler, or rather its corrugated insert.

A mandatory procedure associated with extending the life of a car is replacing its timing belt, which must be done after every hundred thousand kilometers, as well as replacing spark plugs, which on our gasoline sometimes have the tendency to fail from time to time. A branded set of candles will cost about $90, and a regular set will cost $20-30. The operation of replacing the timing belt will cost a much larger amount: together with the replacement of rollers and drive belts it will cost about 250-300 dollars.

As for the gearbox (remember, the car is equipped only with a four-speed automatic transmission), it is also distinguished by its reliability and durability. Some car enthusiasts, however, note that it is “old-fashioned” and “thoughtful,” but it is quite suitable for a calm, careful drive.

By the way, using for it will help to avoid problems with repairing the gearbox. original oil good quality. This way you can significantly extend its life and avoid expensive repairs. And, the gearbox can be purchased separately at one of the American e-Bay auctions. Its price will be about $1,500 for the version restored at the factory.

A little advice: when buying a Lexus RX 300, stop by a station where you can diagnose its transmission. And don’t be afraid if the inspection reveals any problems with it, since such cases with “three hundred” occur quite often. The reassembly process will take no more than a few days, after which it will serve for a long time.

Not for dirt, but for comfort

The next key point: the car's suspension. But even here it is difficult to find any really serious problems and shortcomings that require significant investment. Both the front and rear of the first generation RX 300 have an independent type suspension, despite the complexity of its design, which is distinguished by reliability and durability. But the price for spare parts and components for this model is quite significant. For example, work on installing bushings and stabilization struts will cost $80-100, and replacing shock absorber support bearings will cost about $100 each.

In general, in order to enjoy driving this wonderful car for a long time, it is enough to follow a few simple rules:

1. Avoid slipping. Don't forget that this is not exactly an SUV, so mud, clay and other slippery surfaces are not your field of activity!
2. Do not tow. Remember that the car was created for completely different purposes.
3. Don't try to turn your car into a racing car. You still won’t be able to “rush” from a traffic light and “make” a more powerful and fast BMW X5, but you will cause damage to your “iron horse”.

Now about the second generation

Changes for the better

If you are looking for something more, then you should pay attention to the representatives of the next, second generation of the model, which was produced from 2003 to 2009. Thanks to the restyling, the RX 300 has become even more attractive and elegant.

Firstly, it is a little “larger” than its ancestor. dimensions cars are: 4740 x 1845 x 1680 mm, with a wheelbase length of 2720 mm and a ground clearance at 190 mm.

Secondly, it retained its best features, which, after minor modifications, became even more expressive. In the front part of the crossover there are original large-sized headlights, triangular in shape, the lower side of which borders the car’s bumper. The car's hood acquired even smoother, more streamlined lines. The same trapezoidal false radiator grille, decorated with the brand’s logo, is located here.

An additional air duct has appeared in the front bumper, as well as lower plastic protection. In addition, unpainted “off-road type” plastic elements are located on the rear bumper and boxes of the car. Its appearance is also made impressive and extravagant by large doors, massive wheel arches and a powerful rear roof pillar, together with swollen fenders and high-mounted optical devices, forming a solid, monumental structure with “sporty overtones”.

Looks very original rear window, which received a greater slope compared to the first generation of the model, as well as its tail lights, which, thanks to the presence of LED elements, look unusually attractive in the evening. And, of course, when describing the numerous advantages of this luxurious “handsome”, one cannot fail to note its aerodynamic qualities, with a value of 0.33 Cx, which are the best in its class.

Comfort essentials, and more

Even in the most “modest” basic version (priced at about $54,900), the second-generation RX 300 has truly rich equipment. This includes:

• leather upholstery of seats;
• dual-zone climate control function;
• stabilization system;
• xenon, etc.

Fully justifying its belonging to the “luxury” category, the interior decoration of the RX 300 is distinguished by good taste and sophistication. Creativity and originality of the top panel of the car are given by two vertical elements painted “aluminium”. In addition, there is also traditional wood trim, although in this case it plays rather a secondary character, and generally looks a little out of place on the steering wheel rim. However, this is more of a quibble than a specific remark.

The “sporty” nature of the car is reminiscent of the design of the wells, “recessed” into the surface, with devices placed in them, equipped with special lighting that lights up when the ignition is turned on. The quality of the plastic is very decent, and all the elements fit together perfectly. color solutions and texture. In a word - excellent performance that is worth the money. Note that all of the above are the real opinions of the owners of this car.

In principle, reviews of the second generation Lexus Rx300 are mostly enthusiastic and satisfied, but car enthusiasts also note the presence minor shortcomings, which this “Mr. Perfect” still has. For example, some of them indicate insufficient free space on rear seats, so when trying to “stretch your legs” a tall person may experience some problems, as well as the presence of creaks in the cabin.

Another “but” is insufficient sound insulation of the cabin. In addition, a small drawback of the basic version of 2005 is the lack of an MP3 player. But this is not significant.

Naturally, a car of this class, price and category simply must be quite attractive and comfortable. Another thing is much more important: what is inside it.

For leisurely trips

As for the technical equipment of the restyled version, under its hood the manufacturers have left the same transversely mounted “six”, working in tandem with an “automatic”. The latter, however, acquired one more step - the fifth. The all-wheel drive system equipped with a center differential, rack-and-pinion steering wheel and independent spark plug suspensions also remain in place.

And one of the undoubted advantages of the car (which, by the way, was noted most of its owners) you can call it excellent ride quality. He reacts with equal calm to small dents in the asphalt and obstacles like tram tracks etc., passing them unusually softly and smoothly. However, more serious potholes and holes can cause considerable damage to its suspension, so it’s better not to “test it for strength.”

Some motorists note somewhat rapid wear and tear brake pads car, but this rather depends on the personal nature of the drive and the characteristics of its operation. The cost of the work is about 4 thousand rubles.

In addition, like the representatives of the first generation, the RX 300 2 has a feature related to the car’s maneuverability when accelerating at high speeds. On a road with ruts, it loses a little stability, so in this situation, sudden acceleration and overtaking can end in failure. Still, setting “speed records” is not for him.

Other possible “weak points” of the second generation are also worth noting:

• frequent occurrence of leaks in the gearbox, which can be eliminated by removing the engine and gearbox of the car.
• sweating power steering tube;
• failure of the air suspension, fraught with the replacement of all its struts.

We can say that most of the financial costs are associated with replacing failed consumables. As for the serious units and components of the car, they serve almost flawlessly, without reminding of themselves unless absolutely necessary.

Of course, the Lexus RX 300 cannot be called “cheap” to drive, but you wouldn’t expect this from a car of this class and level, would you? Agree, a car that can bring real pleasure not only to its passengers, but also to the person who drives it is worth it, isn’t it?

You can join the discussion or ask a question using the link above.

The topic of “unreliability” of the automatic transmission on the first generation Lexus RX 300 comes up more often than others.

To dispel myths and legends, collect general information and just opinions, this topic was created. This (root) post will collect key links as well as useful information.

Myth - the RX300 automatic transmission is unreliable.

Reality - With proper operation, the service life of the RX300 automatic transmission is about 300 thousand kilometers.

Myth - repair Lexus automatic transmission The RX 300 is insanely expensive

Reality - no more expensive than most cars with automatic transmission. About 60 thousand rubles turnkey, with removal, installation, spare parts and everything consumables. And reliability after repair is significantly higher than European cars.

On this moment The club community has come to the conclusion that the best place for automatic transmission repair is the club’s partner, the company. The cost of a complete automatic transmission repair with a club discount is less than 60 thousand rubles, the quality is tested by club members.

Main reasons for repairs:

1. Slipping. The RX300 is not an SUV, but a SUV. Don't skid! If you get stuck, it’s better to immediately find the cable than to force the transmission! Trying to go into “swing” is a death sentence for the automatic transmission.

2. Changing the oil to a non-original one. In the RX300 automatic transmission, pour only Type T-IV, original Toyota oil. Don’t listen to “specialists” who claim that this is “ordinary Dexron, but more expensive.” T-IV contains a number of specific friction additives that are designed specifically for this type of transmission. “Analogues” from Castrol, etc., which supposedly fully correspond to T-IV, have also failed more than once.

3. Untimely or improper filter replacement. Washing the filter of the “old” type (iron mesh), instead of changing to the “new” one (with paper filling). The topic on automatic transmission filters on the RX 300 is

4. Changing the automatic transmission oil. with answers and opinions on many popular questions.

5. Continuous movement on high speed with severe contamination of the cooling radiators ("main" and under the wing). The consequence is overheating, reduced service life.

6. A great run!. Most RX300 in Russia have a long mileage, although 99% firmly believe in its “honesty” and carefully pass on the “legend” explaining the 100 thousand miles on duty (“the oligarch’s wife almost never drove”, “the minister gave it to her daughter, and she went to study at Cambridge “, “the eighth car in the family”, “I just kept it and drove a VAZ2107”, “I have a Harrier, but in Japan they don’t drive much, I even have pieces of paper with hieroglyphs”, etc.) about my car to the next buyer.

But look at things sensibly. RX300 is comfortable and fast car. Less than 20 thousand a year for such a car is a unique case (legends go to hell!). Most often 25-30, sometimes more. Thus, for the average RX300 99-2000, we get a mileage of about 200-250 thousand kilometers for 2008. Not less! . And most likely, over the years, the car has seen everything. The previous owners skidded while fishing or in a snowy yard, and the oil change date was overdue a couple of times (“Japanese is not bad!”) and at a “service of good friends” the oil was changed to Mobile-ATF for 100 rubles per can. And here is the result. Your box needs repair.

Hope dies last. Variants of “shamanism” (maybe the wiring has come loose, the terminal from the battery needs to be removed, or the oil just needs to be changed?) help in 1 percent out of 100. If you want to waste a couple of hundred before repairing it, the choice is yours.

Still have doubts or want to know more?
Then below are links for you that will answer all your questions.

1. Club "Knowledge Base". Start here! Carefully study the section dedicated to

5. - general topic

Attention! Truth is born in disputes. When reading the materials, keep in mind that some of the opinions expressed in disputes are controversial! But after spending about an hour studying a selection of texts, you will understand for yourself what is true and what is not.

Please read the entire thread, links, and information contained therein carefully before asking questions!. 99% of questions have already been answered in detail, don’t be lazy to find them yourself!

Of course, the Lexus RX330 has won the hearts of many drivers, due to its harmonious appearance and timeless design. There are more pros than cons to this car. But it doesn't happen perfect cars and each has weaknesses, illnesses and shortcomings that you need to pay attention to when purchasing and which every future owner of a car of this Lexus model should know about.

Weak points of the Lexus RX 330

Oil line pipe connections;
Valve timing system clutch;
Catalysts and lambda probes;
Steering rack;
Cooling system radiator;
Rear wheel bearings.

Oil line connections

The weak point in this line was the connection of the rubber section pipes. As a rule, troubleshooting was carried out by replacing rubber elements with metal ones. When purchasing, it is accordingly necessary to drive the car into an inspection hole and visually check for the absence of oil leaks.

Valve timing system clutch.

The sore spot in this element is the gears. If the gears fail, you may hear a loud grinding noise when starting the engine. This problem appeared around 20 thousand mileage of the car. And the most important thing in this case is that this breakdown is eliminated by replacing the unit. Therefore, when purchasing, you need to pay attention to this and evaluate the performance of the coupling by ear. If there is a chirping, carry out diagnostics.

Failure of catalysts and lambda probes.

Not to say that this is a mass phenomenon, but there are enough cases. The cause of these malfunctions was not some design flaws, but the quality, or rather not the quality of gasoline. Signs of the catalyst's imminent death include prolonged engine starting, decreased power, and toxic starting from the exhaust system. Therefore, when buying a car, you need to pay attention to this and ask whether the catalyst has been cut out and a flame arrester installed. Otherwise, the procedure of replacing or installing a flame arrester is not a cheap procedure. If the lambda probe fails, disturbances in engine operation will occur.

Steering rack.

Steering racks are not durable on all cars, but if the rack on a Lexus RX330 leaks, the entire assembly will have to be replaced. Although nowadays most car repair shops have learned how to troubleshoot a unit and eliminate the causes of leaks.

Cooling system radiator.

This Lexus problem manifested itself mainly due to reagents that are sprinkled on roads getting into unprotected areas of the radiator. As a result, the aluminum honeycombs corroded over time. This problem arose mainly when operating the car in large cities. Checking for radiator leaks is not difficult.

Rear wheel bearings.

This problem, just like with the three hundredths, is quite common. There are no criteria for service life or mileage. Therefore, bearings can fail at any time. The main factor influencing the reduction in service life wheel bearings This is aggressive operation of the car.

Disadvantages of the Lexus RX330

Crickets in the rear of the body;
Weak head light;
When the air conditioner evaporator oxidizes, white flakes enter the cabin;
Seat trim material is easily soiled;
Expensive spare parts;
Thoughtful automatic transmission.

Bottom line.
In conclusion we can say that this car takes a worthy place among its competitors. But it is important to remember that when purchasing, you must carefully and responsibly check the car for faults not only weak points, but also in all systems of the machine. The ideal option would be to have your car diagnosed at a reputable car service center, so as not to buy a “pig in a poke.”

P.S.: dear owners of three hundred and thirty, write in the comments about frequent breakdowns and shortcomings of your car, identified and noticed during operation.

Weaknesses and disadvantages of the Lexus RX330 was last modified: October 2, 2018 by Administrator