2016 Lexus RC350

The 2016 Lexus RC 350 is a stylish and sporty coupe known for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and responsive handling. Its main engine option is a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. A less common engine option is a 2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-4, but the V6 is far more popular. The RC350 offers a smooth and refined driving experience, which is what owners enjoy. Some common complaints include the infotainment system being outdated and not as user-friendly as competitors, as well as a small rear seat.

Engine

3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)

• Coolant Leak from Water Pump
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the water pump area. This can lead to overheating if not addressed. Often accompanied by a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leak from Timing Chain Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the timing chain cover area. Often detected by visible oil drips or a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Reseal the timing chain cover with new gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (8AR-FTS)

• Piston Ring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, reduced engine performance. Often requires more frequent oil changes than normal.
  • Solution: Involves either piston ring replacement or engine replacement depending on the severity of the damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $7000+ (engine replacement is typically more expensive)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (AWR80)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky gear changes, especially when shifting between lower gears.
  • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM) or potentially valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (Software Update), $800 - $2000+ (Valve Body Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Leads to less precise handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per bushing replacement (depending on location).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may randomly freeze, become unresponsive, or reboot while driving.
  • Solution: Software update for the infotainment system or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (Software Update), $800 - $2000+ (Head Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate GPS location, routing errors, outdated maps.
  • Solution: Update the navigation maps, or replace the GPS receiver if the issue persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (Map Update), $500 - $1000+ (GPS Receiver Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• DRL (Daytime Running Light) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more DRLs failing to illuminate.
  • Solution: DRL replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per DRL.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard surface, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ (Dashboard Replacement), $50 - $200 (Dashboard Cover).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Lexus RC 350 generally has a reputation for reliability, but owners may encounter some issues. Engine-related problems, like the coolant leak or oil leaks, can be costly to fix. Transmission issues can range from minor software glitches to more serious component failures. Suspension and electrical problems are less frequent but can still be annoying and expensive. Interior issues such as dashboard cracking can diminish the car’s luxurious feel. Overall, while not extremely common, some of the issues can be considered moderately severe in terms of cost and impact on driving experience. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle inspected prior to purchase.