2018 Lexus RC350

Here’s a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints for the 2018 Lexus RC 350, categorized by major component and engine/transmission option, with specific details about symptoms, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

The 2018 Lexus RC 350 is a luxury coupe known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and reliable performance. It comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate its refined interior and smooth driving experience. However, some find the rear seats cramped and the infotainment system outdated.

Category: Engine

3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)

• Fuel Injector Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel smell, poor fuel economy, rough idle, possible check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600+ (depending on the number of injectors needing replacement and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Oil Leak (Timing Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level, possible check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the timing cover gasket and reseal the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+ (due to the labor-intensive nature of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leak (Water Pump)
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant smell, low coolant level, overheating, possible check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ (depending on labor costs and whether additional components like belts are replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (AA80E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable and jarring shifts between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration. Can also include shift delays.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and software update. If the issue persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving without a corresponding increase in speed, hesitation during acceleration, and/or the transmission disengaging unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. If low or contaminated, perform a fluid flush. If the issue persists, further diagnostics are needed to identify the cause, which may include valve body issues, damaged clutch packs, or other internal components. Transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Suspension

• Creaking/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises coming from the front or rear suspension while driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Inspect and lubricate or replace worn suspension components such as sway bar bushings, control arm bushings, and ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the specific component needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system becomes unresponsive, freezes, or crashes.
  • Solution: Perform a system reset or update the infotainment system software. If the issue persists, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset/update) - $1,500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, leading to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Test the battery and charging system to identify the source of the drain. Common causes include a faulty alternator, parasitic draw from an electrical component, or a bad battery. Replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (battery replacement) - $500+ (alternator replacement or parasitic draw diagnosis/repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Exterior

• Automatic Headlights Malfunctioning
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic headlights do not turn on or off properly, or the sensor that controls them is faulty.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight sensor or the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the specific component needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Interior

• Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: GPS signal loss, inaccurate navigation, map data outdated, or complete system failure.
  • Solution: Update the navigation system software or replace the GPS antenna. If the issue persists, the navigation unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,000+ (Navigation Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Lexus RC 350 generally holds up well, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems, such as fuel injector leaks and oil leaks, can be costly to repair. The transmission can exhibit harsh shifting or slippage, which may require expensive repairs or replacement. Electrical issues, such as infotainment system problems and battery drain, can also occur. While not all vehicles will experience these problems, it’s essential to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential issues before making a purchase. Overall, the cost of potential repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission repairs.