Lexus RC 350
The 2GR-FKS is the latest evolution of the proven 3.5L V6 — dual injection keeps valves clean. Water pump and ignition coils are the only regular items. Significantly more reliable than turbocharged competition.
Personal luxury coupe — not a sports car
The RC 350 looks more aggressive than it drives. 311 hp sounds good, but 3,748 lbs on the scale removes any edge. Result: a silky-smooth, quiet cruiser with V6 rumble and excellent build quality. Anyone expecting BMW 4 Series cornering will be disappointed. Anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable coupe with Lexus quality is in exactly the right place.
Engine Weaknesses 3
The 2GR-FKS inherited the timing cover leak from the 2GR-FE. First and second production years (2016-2018) were worst affected — a production process issue, not a design flaw. Leaks typically appear by the first or second oil change. Later production years are largely free of this problem. Repair costs are extreme due to engine removal requirement.
Symptoms: Oil leak from front timing cover, oil drip on AC compressor, burning oil smell under hood
The 2GR-FKS shares the water pump weakness with the entire 2GR engine family. Premature failures documented as early as 30,000-50,000 miles. Internal design is improved over the 2GR-FE but longevity remains below Toyota standards. Replacement is moderately labor-intensive.
Symptoms: Coolant leak from water pump area, overheating warning, coolant loss, whining noise from pump
Some 2GR-FKS engines consume oil between changes. Toyota considers up to 1 quart per 1,200 miles within specification. Owners report consumption beginning as early as 30,000-60,000 miles. The owner's manual instructs to check and top off as needed. Not catastrophic but requires monitoring.
Symptoms: Oil level drops between changes, low oil level warning, need to add oil every 1,000-2,000 miles
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
HVAC servo motors can fail electrically. Air blows from wrong vents or at wrong temperature. Lexus TSB L-SB-0001-21 covers free repair.
Remote Touch trackpad is a major distraction. Input is awkward and imprecise, especially during navigation entry. Replaced by touchscreen from 2024.
Anti-glare coating on infotainment display can peel, leaving matte spots. Lexus TSB L-SB-0002-16 covers display lens replacement.
The RC is built on three combined platforms (IS, GS, IS convertible), resulting in excess weight. RC 350 RWD weighs 3,748 lbs — far too heavy for a sport coupe.
Like other Lexus models, the clearcoat is thin and prone to stone chips, especially on front and hood.
Center console and armrest rattle on rough roads. Fixed with felt strips at contact points.
Rear seats are unusable for anyone over 5'7". Head hits headliner, knee room is minimal. More storage shelf than seat.
Trunk holds only 10 cubic feet. The RC F's rear seatback doesn't fold at all — only a narrow ski pass-through.