2017 Lexus RC350

Okay, here is a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2017 Lexus RC 350, categorized by component and configuration.

The 2017 Lexus RC 350 is a stylish and sporty coupe known for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and reliable performance. The RC 350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the RC include a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder in the RC 200t (later RC 300), and a more powerful 5.0-liter V8 in the RC F. Owners generally appreciate the RC 350’s sleek design, comfortable cabin, and smooth powertrain. Some common dislikes include the relatively small rear seats, limited cargo space, and the infotainment system’s touchpad interface.

Engine

3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)

• Fuel Injector Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel smell, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potential engine misfires. This is sometimes attributed to faulty fuel injectors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected fuel injectors and cleaning of related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, engine overheating, temperature gauge rising rapidly, and potential for engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and coolant flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (AA80E)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable harshness during shifts, especially between lower gears. Hesitation or delay when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and fill. In some cases, software updates or valve body replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush: $200 - $400, Valve Body Replacement: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shuddering or vibration felt at low speeds or during light acceleration.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Imprecise handling and steering feel.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per corner, depending on which bushings need replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or restarts unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update (if available): $0 - $200, Unit Replacement: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for a few days. Difficult or impossible to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain. Possible replacement of the battery if it has been damaged by repeated draining.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Parasitic Drain Diagnosis/Repair: $150 - $500+, Battery Replacement: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Dimming Side Mirror Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic dimming function on the side mirrors stops working, resulting in glare at night.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected side mirror.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ per mirror
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Touchpad Controller Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system’s touchpad becomes unresponsive, inaccurate, or difficult to use.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the touchpad controller.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update (if available): $0 - $200, Touchpad Replacement: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Lexus RC 350 is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners have reported several common issues. The most concerning are related to the engine (fuel injector and water pump failures) and transmission (harsh shifting and torque converter shudder). Electrical issues with the infotainment system and battery drain can also be frustrating. Suspension bushing wear can affect handling and comfort. The severity of these issues varies, but repairs can be costly, especially for transmission or infotainment system replacements. It is crucial to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before buying a used 2017 RC 350.