2021 Lexus NX300

Introduction

The 2021 Lexus NX300 is a compact luxury crossover SUV that offers a combination of performance and comfort. It comes exclusively with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Drivers appreciate the NX300’s refined interior, spacious cabin, and advanced safety features. However, some owners have reported issues with various aspects of the vehicle.

Engine

• 2.5-liter Four-Cylinder Engine
  • Intake Valve Carbon Buildup
    • Description/Symptoms: Accumulation of carbon deposits on the intake valves, leading to reduced engine performance, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.
    • Solution: Cleaning the intake valves using a chemical cleaner or walnut blasting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: Noisy rattling sound coming from the engine, particularly during acceleration or deceleration.
    • Solution: Replacing the timing chain and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Shifting Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitation or delay in shifting gears, especially during low-speed or high-load situations.
    • Solution: Updating the transmission software or replacing the solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arms
  • Premature Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive wear and tear on the front lower control arms, leading to clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn-out control arms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorbers
  • Leaking
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking shock absorbers can cause a reduction in ride quality and stability.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaky shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery
  • Premature Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery can fail prematurely, causing difficulties starting the vehicle or loss of power.
    • Solution: Replacing the defective battery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator
  • Overcharging
    • Description/Symptoms: The alternator overcharges the battery, damaging electrical components and potentially causing a fire.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty alternator and checking the electrical system for damage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlights
  • Condensation
    • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulation inside the headlight housings, impairing visibility.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected headlights.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per headlight
    • Recalls: None Found
• Body Panels
  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the body panels, particularly around the wheel arches and door frames.
    • Solution: Repairing the rusted areas and applying a rust-resistant coating.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System
  • Software Bugs
    • Description/Symptoms: Occasional software glitches, freezes, or crashes, affecting the infotainment system’s functionality.
    • Solution: Updating the software or replacing the infotainment unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control
  • Insufficient Cooling
    • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system struggles to maintain a comfortable temperature, especially during hot weather.
    • Solution: Checking the A/C refrigerant levels, inspecting the condenser, and cleaning the air conditioning vents.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2021 Lexus NX300 offers many strengths, it is not without its issues. The most concerning problems relate to the engine, including intake valve carbon buildup and timing chain rattle, which can be expensive to repair. Other issues, such as suspension wear, electrical malfunctions, and interior glitches, are less severe but still require attention. The overall severity of the issues and their potential repair costs should be considered before purchasing a 2021 Lexus NX300.