2020 Lexus RX450h

The 2020 Lexus RX450h is a popular luxury hybrid SUV known for its comfortable ride, excellent fuel economy, and reputation for reliability. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 308 horsepower and all-wheel drive standard. Owners often praise the RX450h for its smooth and quiet operation, luxurious interior, and comprehensive suite of safety features. However, some common dislikes include the somewhat uninspired driving dynamics, the touchpad infotainment interface which can be difficult to use, and the limited cargo space compared to some competitors. The RX lineup did include a non-hybrid option with a 3.5-liter V6 engine.

Electric Motor

3.5L V6 Hybrid System

• Inverter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported the hybrid inverter failing, leading to a loss of power, warning lights on the dashboard (specifically relating to the hybrid system), and potential immobilization of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid inverter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Battery

Hybrid Battery Degradation

• Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, decreased acceleration, and error messages related to the hybrid battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery or individual modules.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+ for full replacement depending on the dealer. $200-$1,000+ for individual modules depending on the dealer.
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT Transmission - Hybrid System

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system may fail, leading to a ride height warning light, uneven vehicle height, and a rough ride. The compressor may be noisy or fail to engage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Touchpad Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, lag, or become unresponsive. The touchpad controller can be difficult to use accurately while driving.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In severe cases, the infotainment system unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software updates. $1,000 - $2,000+ for unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunction of parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, or other driver assistance features. Error messages will appear in the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor, depending on location and type.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate may fail to open or close properly. It may get stuck, make unusual noises, or stop responding to the key fob or button controls.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the liftgate motor, struts, or control module. Replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+, depending on the part needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation may be inaccurate, slow to load, or display incorrect information. It may also have issues connecting to GPS.
  • Solution: Software update of the navigation system. Replacement of the GPS receiver or navigation unit if the update doesn’t fix it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for a software update. $500 - $1,500+ for GPS receiver or navigation unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Lexus RX450h generally presents few major problems. The most significant potential issue is the hybrid inverter failure, which can be quite costly to repair. The air suspension system and infotainment system also have reported issues, though those are less common. Routine maintenance and addressing minor concerns promptly can help prevent larger problems down the road. Overall, the RX450h maintains Lexus’s reputation for reliability, though potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues.