2020 Lexus RC350

The 2020 Lexus RC350 is a luxury coupe known for its comfortable ride, stylish design, and reliability. The RC350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 and a 3.5L V6 paired with a hybrid electric motor. The 3.5-liter V6 is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission (RWD) or a 6-speed automatic transmission (AWD). Owners often praise the RC350 for its smooth ride, upscale interior, and Lexus’s reputation for dependability. Criticisms often focus on the infotainment system’s usability, the relatively small rear seats, and the somewhat uninspiring handling compared to some sportier rivals.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with fuel injector failure, leading to rough idling, misfires, reduced engine performance, and potentially a check engine light. The issue seems to be more common in colder climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injectors. The high pressure fuel pump should be inspected and replaced if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with coolant leaks, particularly around the water pump or radiator. This can lead to overheating and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty component (water pump, radiator, hoses, etc.) and addressing any related damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (RWD)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have complained about harsh or jerky shifting, particularly during low-speed maneuvers or when transitioning between gears.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, transmission valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (AWD)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Creaking/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported creaking or squeaking noises coming from the suspension, especially over bumps or uneven surfaces. This can be caused by worn bushings, ball joints, or sway bar links.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn suspension components (bushings, ball joints, sway bar links, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can sometimes freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This may require a system reboot or software update.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset or updating the infotainment system software. In some cases, replacing the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (system reset) - $1,500+ (infotainment unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with rapid battery drain, particularly when the car is not driven for extended periods. This may be caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic draw. Testing and replacing the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Warping/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: In hot climates, some owners have reported warping or cracking of the dashboard material, particularly around the air vents or instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Replacement of the damaged dashboard components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

• Sunroof Rattling

  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported a rattling noise coming from the sunroof when driving on rough roads.

  • Solution: Adjusting or lubricating the sunroof mechanism. In some cases, replacement of the sunroof assembly may be necessary.

  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+

  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Lexus RC350, while generally reliable, can experience issues such as fuel injector failure, coolant leaks, harsh shifting in the 8-speed automatic, and suspension noises. Electrical problems with the infotainment system and battery drain are also reported. Interior issues like dashboard warping can occur, especially in hotter climates. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. Owners should be aware of these potential problems when considering a purchase. The cost to fix these issues varies widely, but some repairs, like dashboard replacement or transmission work, can be quite expensive. Overall, the RC350 is a relatively reliable car, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing.