2016 Lexus RX450h

The 2016 Lexus RX450h is a popular luxury hybrid SUV, known for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and excellent fuel economy. It’s powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 308 horsepower. Unlike its purely gasoline counterpart (RX350), the RX450h utilizes an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT). People generally like the RX450h for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and quiet cabin. Common dislikes include the unintuitive infotainment system, some dated interior styling elements, and less sporty handling compared to some competitors. This document will outline common issues and complaints reported by owners, categorized by vehicle systems.

Electric Motor

• High Voltage Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced electric-only range, decreased overall fuel economy, warning lights related to the hybrid system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high voltage battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Back Door Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The power back door may not open or close properly, may make unusual noises during operation, or the motor may fail completely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power back door actuator/motor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or randomly reboots. Navigation system errors may also occur.
  • Solution: Software update, or in some cases, replacement of the infotainment system unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (software update), $1,000+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight. This is more common in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Failures (e.g., Oxygen Sensors, Mass Airflow Sensors)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling, stalling. The specific sensor failure will determine the exact symptoms.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Display Screen Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: LCD screen not working, dimming, or lines going through it.
  • Solution: Replacement of the screen or the whole display unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear, bouncy ride. This may include worn struts, shocks, or control arm bushings.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per corner, depending on the specific components replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Overall Summary:

The 2016 Lexus RX450h generally enjoys a reputation for reliability, but like any vehicle, it’s not without its potential issues. The most serious and costly potential problem is high voltage battery degradation, which can significantly impact the vehicle’s performance and require a costly replacement. Other notable issues include potential infotainment system malfunctions, dashboard cracking, and sensor failures. While the suspension components may wear down more quickly, this is often dependent on driving conditions. The overall severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences (infotainment glitches) to major expenses (battery replacement). Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, particularly when evaluating higher-mileage examples.