2017 Lexus NX300h
The 2017 Lexus NX 300h is a compact luxury hybrid SUV known for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and upscale interior. It features a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 194 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque. The NX 300h utilizes an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). Owners generally appreciate the vehicle’s smooth hybrid powertrain, quiet cabin, and Lexus reliability. Some common complaints include the infotainment system’s clunky interface (specifically the touchpad) and the relatively small cargo space compared to competitors.
Electric Motor
No Issues Found
Transmission
ECVT Transmission
- Transmission Whining Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a whining noise emanating from the transmission, especially during acceleration.
- Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush can alleviate the noise. In more severe cases, transmission replacement might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $5000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported squeaking or creaking noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. This is often attributed to worn bushings.
- Solution: Replacing the affected bushings, particularly the rear stabilizer bar bushings, is the typical solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, specifically the navigation and audio functions, can experience intermittent freezing or spontaneous reboots. This often occurs during navigation or while using connected services.
- Solution: A software update from the dealership is often the first step. In some cases, replacing the infotainment unit may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1500+ (infotainment unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain issues. Some owners report having to jump start the vehicle, especially after short periods of inactivity.
- Solution: Troubleshooting to identify the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty sensor, module not sleeping properly). Replacing the battery is a common, but not always permanent, fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (battery replacement) - $500+ (diagnostics and parasitic draw repair)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup or condensation inside the headlight housings. This can reduce headlight effectiveness and potentially damage the bulb or housing.
- Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly is a common solution. Some owners try to dry out the housing but this is not a permenant solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ (per headlight assembly)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Touchpad Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system’s touchpad controller can become unresponsive, erratic, or difficult to use. The cursor may jump around the screen or fail to register inputs.
- Solution: Cleaning the touchpad surface may temporarily improve responsiveness. In most cases, replacement of the touchpad module is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2017 Lexus NX 300h exhibits a mix of relatively minor and potentially more expensive issues. Suspension noises and infotainment glitches are fairly common, while more serious issues such as transmission whine or battery drain occur less frequently but can be costly to repair. While the vehicle enjoys a reputation for reliability, it’s important for prospective buyers to be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision and budget. Overall, the severity of the issues is mixed, with costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand depending on the problem.