2020 Lexus RC300

The 2020 Lexus RC 300 is a luxury coupe known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and Lexus reliability. It’s available with two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque in the RC 300 AWD and 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque in the RC 350. The RC is praised for its comfortable and quiet cabin, attractive styling, and long list of standard features. Some common dislikes include its somewhat cramped rear seats, less engaging driving dynamics compared to some competitors, and the infotainment system’s touchpad interface.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged I4

• Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines like the 2.0L turbo can experience carbon buildup on the intake valves over time, leading to rough idling, decreased performance, and reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Professional cleaning of the intake valves using methods like media blasting or chemical cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (AWD Models)

No Issues Found

8-Speed Automatic (RWD Models)

No Issues Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The Lexus infotainment system, particularly with the touchpad interface, can sometimes freeze, lag, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio controls, and other features.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In more severe cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update (Free), Unit Replacement $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• DRL (Daytime Running Lights) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the daytime running lights (DRL) is reported by some owners.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected DRL unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Touchpad Sensitivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The touchpad controller for the infotainment system is known for being overly sensitive or inaccurate, making it difficult to navigate the menus.
  • Solution: Adjusting the touchpad sensitivity settings in the infotainment menu. Unfortunately, there is no perfect fix for this issue and many find it annoying to use.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: None, adjustments are free, however frustration might lead to trading the vehicle in.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Lexus RC 300 generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability, consistent with the Lexus brand. The most commonly reported issues are related to carbon buildup on the 2.0L turbo engine and occasional glitches with the infotainment system’s functionality, especially the touchpad, although it doesn’t necessarily fail, it can be frustrating to use. The cost to address these problems can vary from relatively inexpensive software updates to more significant expenses for engine cleaning or replacing electrical components.