2018 Lexus RX350L
The 2018 Lexus RX 350L is a luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior (especially with the added third row), and reputation for reliability. It’s powered by a 3.5L V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While generally reliable, the RX 350L does have some commonly reported issues. Owners often praise its smooth ride and luxurious interior but criticize its somewhat cramped third-row seating and less-than-thrilling driving dynamics. This information focuses on the specific issues reported for the 2018 Lexus RX 350L.
Engine
3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-ups between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights and the need to add oil more often than expected.
- Solution: In some cases, the issue may be related to faulty piston rings. A more invasive repair involving replacing the piston rings might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Water pump failure causing overheating due to coolant leak. Symptoms include high engine temperature, coolant leaking from under the vehicle, and a sweet coolant smell.
- Solution: Replacing the water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (AWR80E)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifts, particularly during low-speed acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: Some owners have found that transmission software updates or a transmission fluid flush can resolve these issues. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild might be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (transmission rebuild)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Premature Wear of Rear Suspension Components
- Description/Symptoms: Owners report faster than expected wear of rear suspension components like bushings and shocks. This can lead to clunking noises, reduced handling, and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the components needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing or Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes, requiring a restart.
- Solution: Software updates. In some cases, the entire unit may need replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1500+ (unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Backup Camera Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the backup camera display.
- Solution: Replacing the backup camera unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Automatic Liftgate Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate fails to open or close properly.
- Solution: Replacing liftgate struts, sensors, or motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Cracking Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking or warping of the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, however this is a very costly fix. Covering it with a dash cover or applying protectants may help mitigate further damage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2018 Lexus RX 350L is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners have reported issues such as excessive oil consumption, harsh shifting, infotainment system problems, and exterior issues like liftgate malfunctions. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with some being relatively minor fixes, while others, like engine repairs, can be quite expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and consider a pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential problems.