2019 Lexus RC300

The 2019 Lexus RC300 is a luxury coupe that blends stylish design with a comfortable ride. It is available with a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the RC line include a 3.5L V6 in the RC 350 and a high-performance 5.0L V8 in the RC F. The RC300 exclusively uses an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the RC300 for its attractive styling, comfortable interior, and smooth ride. Some criticisms include its somewhat cramped rear seats, less engaging driving dynamics compared to some competitors, and infotainment system.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Excessive Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct-injection engines, like the 2.0L turbo in the RC300, are susceptible to carbon buildup on the intake valves. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, decreased fuel economy, and engine misfires.
  • Solution: A professional carbon cleaning service is required to remove the buildup. This can involve walnut blasting or chemical cleaning of the intake valves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of the suspension bushings, particularly in the lower control arms. This can lead to clunking noises from the suspension, imprecise handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The Lexus infotainment system, while aesthetically pleasing to some, has been reported to experience freezing, lagging, and occasional glitches.
  • Solution: Software updates from Lexus may address some of these issues. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,500+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling/Creaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling or creaking noises emanating from the dashboard or door panels, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating and isolating the source of the noise, followed by tightening fasteners, adding padding, or replacing worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the severity and source
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Lexus RC300 generally exhibits good reliability. The most frequently reported issues involve carbon buildup in the engine, potential suspension bushing wear, and occasional infotainment system glitches. Carbon cleaning is a moderate expense, while bushing replacement varies. Infotainment issues are the most expensive potential fix. Overall, while these issues can occur, they are not widespread and do not represent major reliability concerns for most owners.