2015 Lexus RX350
The 2015 Lexus RX 350 is a luxury mid-size SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and Lexus reliability. It features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. It is exclusively paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the RX 350 for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and strong resale value. Common complaints include the somewhat uninspired driving dynamics and the infotainment system that is not as intuitive as some competitors.
Engine
3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)
- Oil Leaks from Timing Cover
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are observed near the timing cover area. This can manifest as visible oil drips or a burning smell if oil contacts hot engine components.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing cover gasket and resealing the timing cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks near the water pump area, and a whining noise coming from the engine.
- Solution: Replacement of the water pump. It’s often recommended to replace the thermostat and coolant at the same time.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (U660E)
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, particularly at lower speeds. Hesitation or delay when accelerating from a stop or when shifting.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush is the first step. If the problem persists, further diagnostics are needed to determine if the valve body, solenoids, or other internal components are failing. Valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush $200 - $400, Valve Body Replacement $1200 - $2500, Transmission Rebuild $3000 - $5000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps.
- Solution: Inspection and replacement of worn sway bar bushings, end links, or shocks/struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Sway Bar Bushings $150 - $300, End Links $200 - $400, Shocks/Struts $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing or Rebooting
- Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or spontaneously reboots.
- Solution: Software update. If the problem persists, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update $0 - $150, Infotainment Unit Replacement $1000 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a short period, requiring frequent jump starts.
- Solution: Diagnosing the parasitic draw and fixing it. Common causes include faulty door actuators or incorrectly installed aftermarket accessories.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on source of drain.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Automatic Liftgate Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate fails to open or close properly, gets stuck, or makes unusual noises.
- Solution: Lubricate the hinges and latches of the power liftgate. A worn hydraulic pump could be the source of the issue and must be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, or use of a dashboard cover to prevent further damage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard Replacement $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Lexus RX 350 is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners do experience some common issues. Engine oil leaks and transmission harshness are potential concerns that could lead to significant repair costs. Electrical glitches within the infotainment system can also be frustrating. While most issues aren’t catastrophic, addressing them promptly can help maintain the vehicle’s value and reliability.