2018 Lexus RC300

The 2018 Lexus RC 300 is a stylish and sporty coupe known for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and smooth performance. The RC 300 comes standard with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the RC 300 AWD comes with a 3.5L V6 that produces 255 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The RC 350 is also available, featuring a more powerful 3.5L V6 engine that produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the RC’s refined driving experience, comfortable seats, and attractive design. Common dislikes include the somewhat cramped rear seats and less-than-stellar fuel economy compared to competitors.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (241 hp, 258 lb-ft)

• Excessive Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and a loss of power. This is common in direct-injection engines like the 2.0L turbo due to the lack of fuel washing over the intake valves.
  • Solution: Cleaning the intake valves using walnut blasting or a similar method to remove the carbon deposits. Installing an oil catch can may also help to mitigate future buildup.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 (255 hp, 236 lb-ft)

No Issues Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (AWD RC 300)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing occasional rough shifting, particularly when the transmission is cold, or hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and software update. If the issue persists, further diagnostics may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or creaking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Can also cause imprecise steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arm bushings. In some cases, the entire lower control arm may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Failure of the Infotainment System Screen
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen may freeze, flicker, or completely fail. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software update of the infotainment system. If the issue persists, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Warping/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners in hot climates have reported the dashboard warping or cracking, particularly around the center console or near the windshield.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 Lexus RC 300 is a generally reliable vehicle. The most significant issues appear to be related to carbon buildup on the 2.0L turbocharged engine, occasional transmission issues and infotainment system failures. The dashboard warping issue is concerning but seems to be limited to hotter climates. Repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the repair shop, with dashboard and infotainment system replacements being the most expensive.