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Lexus · Mid-Size SUV · 2004–2009

Lexus RX XU30

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Lexus RX XU30 is available with one engine variant at 272 hp.

RX 350 · Petrol· 270 PS
2004 2009
Be Careful 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Lexus RX 350 (Petrol, 270 PS) has the 2GR-FE (3.5L V6) — rated: "Be Careful", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Dashboard Cracking / Deterioration

Dashboard material cracks and deteriorates from UV exposure and heat cycling. Most-reported complaint on 2007-2009 RX 350 models. Covered under Lexus warranty enhancement program ZLD (expired). Replacement dashboards cost $1,000-$2,500 if not covered.

Symptoms: Visible cracks across dashboard surface, material feels rough or grainy, may produce reflective glare
Ad dashboard replacement Lexus RX 350dash cover RX XU30instrument panel RX 350 2007-2009
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
548 complaints · 2004–2009
Engine
91
Steering
85 ⚠ 2
Body Structure
81 ⚠ 3
Other
72 ⚠ 1
Electrical
51

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Engine (91 complaints)
⚠ Steering (85 complaints)
⚠ Body Structure (81 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 16 weaknesses have been documented for the Lexus RX XU30 (2004–2009) — 3 engine-related and 13 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Interior, Steering, Electronics, Body.

RX (2GR-FE, 2004–2009) — Be Careful: VVT-i Oil Supply Hose Failure (Service Campaign), Front Timing Cover Oil Leak, Premature Water Pump Failure. Power: 270 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 XU30 have? +
The Lexus RX XU30 has 3 known engine weaknesses and 13 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Lexus RX XU30? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: 2GR-FE (3.5L V6). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the 2GR-FE (3.5L V6).
Which Lexus RX XU30 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Lexus RX XU30 — rated: "Decent". {description} The second-generation RX established the template: comfortable, quiet, invisible to drive. The 3.5L V6 is smooth and reliable. Dashboard cracking affects most examples — check the ZLD warranty program status. VVT-i oil line recall on 2007-2009 models is mandatory. Water pump around 80k miles. Everything else is minor. A high-mileage XU30 RX with service history is one of the safest used SUV purchases available.
Is the Lexus RX XU30 worth buying used? +
The Lexus RX XU30 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Lexus RX XU30? +
The Lexus RX XU30 is available with engine variants from 272 to 277 hp. Petrol: 2GR-FE (3.5L V6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee