2013 Lexus RX350

The 2013 Lexus RX 350 is a popular luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride, reliability, and upscale interior. It comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the RX 350’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and reputation for longevity. Some common dislikes include the somewhat uninspiring handling, infotainment system complexity, and a less engaging driving experience compared to sportier SUVs.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FE V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often originating from the valve cover gaskets or timing cover. These leaks can lead to a burning oil smell and, if severe, low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and/or resealing the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the source and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and coolant flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin U660E 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission experiences harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear or during downshifts.
  • Solution: Replacement of solenoids inside the transmission or valve body. Could require complete transmission replacement in rare cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on the severity and required repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration. This is often attributed to torque converter lockup issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter or a complete transmission flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, poor handling, and a clunking noise coming from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts/shocks and potentially other associated components like mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per corner (depending on if front or rear)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps, imprecise steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or displays incorrect information.
  • Solution: Software update. If not software, replacement of the screen/navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+ depending on the fix.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections, and poor audio quality during phone calls.
  • Solution: Software update, check phone compatibility, or replacement of the Bluetooth module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate fails to open or close automatically, or gets stuck.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the liftgate motor, struts, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or melting of the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Lexus RX 350 generally exhibits good reliability, but certain issues are more prevalent. Engine oil leaks, water pump failures, and transmission harsh shifting are the most common concerns, potentially leading to moderate repair costs. Electrical and interior issues, like navigation screen failures and dashboard cracking, can also be frustrating. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and review service records to address these potential issues proactively. Although the transmission issues could be costly, overall the vehicle is fairly reliable compared to other vehicles on the road and issues should be addressed as soon as they appear to avoid severe damage.