2019 Lexus RX450h

The 2019 Lexus RX450h is a hybrid luxury SUV known for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and excellent fuel economy. Its hybrid powertrain combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with electric motors, producing a combined 308 horsepower and is paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). Owners often praise the RX450h for its reliability, quiet cabin, and luxurious features. Common complaints include the unintuitive infotainment system and somewhat uninspired driving dynamics.

Electric Motor

3.5L V6 Hybrid System

• Hybrid Battery Degradation/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, warning lights on the dashboard (e.g., “Check Hybrid System”), diminished hybrid system performance (reduced electric-only driving range, less electric assist).
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

ECVT Transmission

Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT)

• Transmission Jerking/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of occasional jerking or harsh shifting, especially during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. It can feel like a shudder, or a clunk.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, the transmission may need to be inspected and potentially rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (for software update) - $6,000+ (for replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or creaking sounds coming from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can be caused by worn-out struts, shocks, or sway bar links.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected suspension components (struts, shocks, sway bar links, bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per corner (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, glitches, or reboots unexpectedly. Connectivity issues with smartphones (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto).
  • Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Blind Spot Monitor, Parking Sensors)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms, failure to detect objects, or error messages related to the blind spot monitor or parking sensors.
  • Solution: Inspection and replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate fails to open or close properly, gets stuck, or makes unusual noises.
  • Solution: Adjusting the liftgate motor, replacing the liftgate struts, or replacing the entire liftgate motor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight and high temperatures.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Lexus RX450h, while generally reliable, can experience issues ranging from minor infotainment glitches to more significant hybrid battery degradation. The infotainment system and hybrid battery are some of the main complaints. While suspension noises and liftgate problems are less common, they can still occur. The cost of repairs varies widely, with some issues resolved by software updates while others require component replacements costing thousands of dollars. The severity of these issues varies, but it’s important for prospective buyers to be aware of them and have the vehicle inspected before purchase.