2007 Lexus RX350

The 2007 Lexus RX350 is a popular luxury crossover SUV known for its comfortable ride, reliability, and upscale features. It’s powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. While owners appreciate its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and reputation for longevity, some common complaints include issues with the dashboard cracking, oil leaks, and occasional transmission issues. There are no other engine options, but there is a four-wheel-drive (4WD) drivetrain option, and front-wheel-drive (FWD) drivetrain option.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FE V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often originating from the valve cover gaskets or timing chain cover. The symptom is visible oil on the engine or underneath the vehicle, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets or resealing the timing chain cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVT-i Oil Line Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: A rubber hose in the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system can degrade and leak oil. Symptoms include visible oil leakage near the VVT-i system and a potential drop in oil pressure. A revised all-metal oil line was produced to address the issue.
  • Solution: Replacing the original rubber hose with the updated all-metal VVT-i oil line.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (U151E/U151F)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or delayed shifting, particularly between first and second gear. This can be caused by worn solenoids or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush, replacing faulty solenoids, or rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $2500+ (transmission rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, stalling, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacing the Torque Converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn struts or shock absorbers lead to a bouncy ride, reduced handling stability, and increased stopping distance.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can also affect alignment and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may fail to power on, display distorted images, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the navigation screen unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more door locks may fail to lock or unlock using the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulating inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the headlight bulbs.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight assembly, drying out the moisture, and resealing the housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking and splitting of the dashboard material, particularly in hot climates. This is a well-known issue with the 2007 Lexus RX350.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard (expensive) or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ (dashboard replacement) / $50 - $200 (dashboard cover)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Lexus RX350 is generally a reliable vehicle, but common issues like dashboard cracking, oil leaks, and occasional transmission problems should be considered when purchasing one. Dashboard cracking is a prevalent cosmetic issue, while oil leaks and transmission problems can lead to more significant and costly repairs. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to substantial repair bills, so a thorough inspection is recommended before buying a used RX350.