2015 Lexus NX300h
Here’s a breakdown of the common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2015 Lexus NX 300h, categorized by major components.
The 2015 Lexus NX 300h is a compact luxury hybrid SUV known for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and Lexus reliability. The NX 300h features a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 194 horsepower and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It’s generally praised for its upscale interior, smooth driving experience, and good fuel economy. Some owners, however, find the infotainment system to be dated and cumbersome to use, and the acceleration to be adequate but not particularly sporty. The non-hybrid NX 200t is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Electric Motor
2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid Electric Motor
- Hybrid Battery Degradation
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, warning lights on the dashboard related to the hybrid system, decreased electric motor assist, and shorter all-electric driving range. The battery gradually loses its capacity over time.
- Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
ECVT (Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission)
- Hesitation/Jerking during Acceleration
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a slight hesitation or jerky feeling during initial acceleration or when transitioning between electric and gasoline power. This can be more pronounced in colder weather.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, transmission replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $100-$300, Transmission Replacement: $4,000 - $7,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Reports of clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. This is often attributed to worn or loose suspension components.
- Solution: Inspection and replacement of worn suspension components such as sway bar bushings, shocks, or control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component(s) needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can freeze, become unresponsive, or crash, requiring a restart. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
- Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In other cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $0 - $200, Unit Replacement: $1,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, frequent disconnections, or poor audio quality during phone calls.
- Solution: Try deleting the device and re-pairing, updating the vehicle’s Bluetooth software, or replacing the Bluetooth module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $0 - $200, Module Replacement: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Repair: $200 - $800, Replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
No Issues Found
Summary
The 2015 Lexus NX 300h is generally a reliable vehicle. The most significant potential issues revolve around the hybrid battery degradation and the infotainment system, which can be costly to repair. Suspension noises and the ECVT are less common, but can also lead to repair costs. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to assess the condition of these key components.