2016 Lexus RX450h

Introduction

The 2016 Lexus RX450h is a hybrid luxury SUV known for its spacious cabin, smooth ride, and fuel efficiency. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 308 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four and a 3.5-liter gasoline V6. Transmission options include an 8-speed automatic for the gasoline engines and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for the hybrid.

Despite its overall reliability, the 2016 Lexus RX450h has some reported issues that potential buyers should be aware of:

Engine

• 3.5L V6 Hybrid
  • Oil Leak: Oil may leak from the oil cooler lines or the oil filter housing.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Piston Ring Sticking: Engine misfires or rough idling due to stuck piston rings.
    • Solution: Replace the piston rings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • EGR Cooler Failure: The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler can fail, leading to loss of power and reduced fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-Four
  • Fuel Injector Failure: Faulty fuel injectors can cause rough idling, hesitation, and reduced power.
    • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• 3.5L Gasoline V6
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing a rattling noise from the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Intake Manifold Runner Failure: The intake manifold runners may break or become loose, leading to reduced engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Transmission

• CVT (Hybrid)
  • Transmission Slippage: The transmission may slip, causing hesitation, shuddering, or loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
• 8-Speed Automatic (Gasoline)
  • Shifting Problems: The transmission may have difficulty shifting gears or experience delayed shifts.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission solenoids or reprogram the transmission computer.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure: The front strut mounts may fail, causing excessive noise and vibration over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Rear Sway Bar Link Failure: The rear sway bar links may break, leading to clunking noises and reduced stability.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Electrical

• Battery Failure: The 12-volt battery may fail prematurely, causing difficulty starting the vehicle or electrical system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Infotainment System Black Screen: The infotainment system may experience a black screen or freezing issues.
  • Solution: Reset or update the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation: Moisture may accumulate inside the headlights, causing poor visibility.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Sunroof Leak: The sunroof may leak, allowing water into the cabin.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Failure: The instrument cluster may fail or experience flickering, displaying incorrect information.
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Climate Control Malfunction: The climate control system may not function properly, causing issues such as uneven temperature or lack of airflow.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Summary

While the 2016 Lexus RX450h is generally reliable, some specific issues have been reported. The severity of these issues varies, with some being relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be major and costly. Potential buyers should research these issues and consider the estimated costs associated with them before purchasing a used 2016 Lexus RX450h.