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Lexus · Mid-Size SUV · 2016–2022

Lexus RX AL20

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
4.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Lexus RX AL20 is available with 2 engine variants — from 249 to 316 hp.

RX 350 · Petrol· 295 PS
2016 2022
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
RX 450h · Petrol Hybrid· 313 PS
2016 2022
Be Careful 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Lexus RX 350 (Petrol, 295 PS) has the 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

The Lexus RX 450h (Petrol Hybrid, 313 PS) has the 2GR-FXE (3.5L V6 Hybrid) — rated: "Be Careful", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
●Rain Sensor Malfunction

Rain-sensing windshield wiper system malfunctions, particularly at night. Sensor triggers wipers inappropriately or fails to activate in rain. Primarily reported on 2017 models. Sensor replacement or recalibration typically resolves.

Symptoms: Wipers activate without rain, wipers fail to activate in rain, erratic wiper behavior at night
Ad rain sensor Lexus RX AL20wiper sensor RX 350 2016-2022windshield sensor module RX
 Low
●Infotainment System Lag

The Lexus Remote Touch interface (touchpad controller) is slow and unintuitive. Navigation input requires excessive concentration. This is a design limitation, not a defect — no fix available beyond replacement with aftermarket head unit.

Symptoms: Slow response to touchpad input, difficult navigation entry, cursor overshooting targets
Ad infotainment touchpad Lexus RXnavigation module RX AL20
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
152 complaints · 2016–2022
Airbags
70 ⚠ 8
Other
25 ⚠ 2
Electrical
14 ⚠ 3
Tires
10 ⚠ 1
Engine
9 ⚠ 2

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (70 complaints)
⚠ Other (25 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (14 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the Lexus RX AL20 (2016–2022) — 6 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Electronics, Body, Brakes, Suspension. Considered reliable: 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S).

RX (2GR-FXE, 2016–2022) — Be Careful: Brake Actuator Failure, Inverter Coolant Pump Failure, Moderate Oil Consumption. Power: 313 PS.

What to watch out for with the Lexus RX? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Lexus RX AL20 have? +
The Lexus RX AL20 has 6 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Lexus RX AL20? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S). The most reliable engine is the 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S).
Which Lexus RX AL20 engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Lexus RX AL20. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Lexus RX AL20 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Lexus RX AL20 — rated: "Decent". {description} 295 hp from the 3.5L V6 with dual injection — more power, cleaner intake valves. The AL20 is the most refined V6 RX ever built. Rain sensor issues on 2017 models are annoying but cheap. Infotainment runs on Lexus's remote-touch system which is universally criticized. Brake actuator noise on some units. A 2018+ model with the safety suite and no rain sensor complaints is the sweet spot.
Is the Lexus RX AL20 worth buying used? +
The Lexus RX AL20 is a good choice as a used car — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Lexus RX AL20? +
The Lexus RX AL20 is available with engine variants from 249 to 316 hp. Petrol: 2GR-FKS (3.5L V6 D-4S), 2GR-FXE (3.5L V6 Hybrid).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee