2018 Lexus RX350

The 2018 Lexus RX 350 is a popular luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reputation for reliability. The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 producing 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the smooth and quiet ride, elegant interior, and user-friendly technology. Common criticisms include the somewhat uninspired handling and the touchpad-based infotainment system, which some find distracting.

Engine

3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)

• Water Pump Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the water pump area, overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (AWR80) No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps. This is often attributed to worn suspension components.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace worn suspension components, such as sway bar links, bushings, or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on components replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes, requiring a restart.
  • Solution: Software update from Lexus dealership. Some owners have reported that updates resolve the issue while others require a complete system replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: Free - $200. System replacement: $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera may fail to display an image, show a distorted image, or flicker intermittently.
  • Solution: Check camera connections and wiring. If the wiring is good, the camera may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Tailgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate failing to open or close automatically, or making unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace the tailgate struts, motor, or sensors. Resetting the system may help temporarily.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Touchpad Controller Unresponsiveness
  • Description/Symptoms: The Remote Touchpad controller used to navigate the infotainment system becomes unresponsive or difficult to use.
  • Solution: Cleaning the touchpad, software update. If this doesn’t work, the touchpad needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: Free - $200. Touchpad Replacement: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Lexus RX 350 has generally good reliability, but certain issues can arise. The most reported issues involve the infotainment system’s glitches and responsiveness of the remote touchpad. Suspension noises can also be an issue with some owners. Repair costs vary, with infotainment system repairs or replacements potentially being the most expensive. While no recalls were found for these specific issues, it’s always recommended to check with the NHTSA for the latest recall information related to the vehicle.