2012 Lexus RX350

Introduction to the 2012 Lexus RX350

The 2012 Lexus RX350 is a midsize luxury SUV that offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. It comes with a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Among the pros of the RX350 are its spacious and well-appointed interior, smooth ride, and strong safety ratings. However, some areas for improvement include below-average fuel economy, limited cargo space in certain trims, and a somewhat sluggish acceleration response.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant from the intake manifold, causing overheating and engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed gear shifts, transmission slipping, or failure to engage gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the shift solenoid or transmission control module (TCM).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises (creaking, clunking, or squeaking) when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, flickering dashboard lights, or difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead after sitting for extended periods.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the source of the drain and repair or replace the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Bumper Trim Panel Detachment:
  • Description/Symptoms: The outer trim panel on the rear bumper may detach, creating an unsightly gap.
  • Solution: Reattachment or replacement of the trim panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Mechanism Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly or may make grinding noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, cables, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system may freeze, display incorrect information, or fail to receive satellite signals.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Lexus RX350 is a reliable and comfortable SUV but has some potential issues to watch out for. While some issues like intake manifold gasket failure and alternator failure are more serious and can be costly to repair, others like sunroof mechanism failure and navigation system malfunction are more likely to be nuisances rather than major problems. Overall, the RX350 is still a solid choice for those seeking a refined and luxurious driving experience.