2005 Lexus RX330

Introduction

The 2005 Lexus RX330 is a midsize luxury SUV that offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. It comes equipped with a 3.3-liter V6 engine that produces 223 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, paired with a standard five-speed automatic transmission. Other available engine and transmission options include a 3.5-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission, producing 273 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. The RX330 is known for its spacious interior, impressive fuel economy, and reliable performance. However, there have been some reported issues with the vehicle, as detailed below.

Engine

3.3-liter V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine coolant leaks, decreased engine power, rough idle, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, squealing noise from the engine
  • Solution: Replace water pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, difficulty starting, no-start condition, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace crankshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5-liter V6

• VVT-i Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking, reduced engine performance, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace VVT-i solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Spark Plug Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, rough idling, reduced fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering while shifting, no power transfer, no movement
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Control Module Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to shift gears, erratic transmission behavior, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace transmission control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Six-Speed Automatic

• Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shifting issues, delayed or rough shifting, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace faulty solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Differential Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise from the rear, difficulty turning, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace differential
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, uneven tire wear, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace worn-out strut assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping sounds, unstable steering, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace ball joint
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead frequently, slow engine crank, electrical malfunctions
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system, check for parasitic drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, flickering electronics, no charging of battery
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog Light Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water or condensation inside fog light lens
  • Solution: Replace fog light assembly with improved seal
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Panel Noise:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing sounds from door panels
  • Solution: Adjust or install sound dampening material in door panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Scratches:
  • Description/Symptoms: Surface scratches or wear on the center console
  • Solution: Repair or replace center console
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Lexus RX330 has mixed reviews from owners. It generally receives praise for its reliability, comfort, and safety features. However, it has also been reported to have some issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. Some of these issues can be costly to repair, such as torque converter or differential failure. However, overall, the vehicle is considered a reliable and well-built SUV.