2021 Lexus RC300

The 2021 Lexus RC300 is a luxury coupe known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and Lexus’s reputation for reliability. The RC300 is the base trim level, and comes with a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The RC is also available as the RC350, which features a 3.5L V6 producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The RC300 RWD comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The RC300 AWD and RC350 models are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the RC’s comfortable interior and smooth ride, but some find the infotainment system dated and the rear seats cramped. While Lexus generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability, like any vehicle, the RC300 can experience certain issues. Here’s a breakdown of reported problems, categorized for clarity:

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or timing cover. Symptoms include visible oil on the engine, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty gasket or reseal the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, decreased power, and/or a check engine light. The turbocharger may be failing.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (RWD Models with 2.0L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, especially between lower gears. The transmission may hesitate or clunk when shifting.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission control module (TCM) reflash can resolve the issue. In other cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (TCM reflash) - $5,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (AWD Models with 2.0L Engine) No Issues Found

Suspension No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or reboots randomly. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Attempt a system reset. If that doesn’t work, a software update from the dealer might be needed. In rare cases, the infotainment unit itself may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $100 (software update) - $1,000+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for a few days. This can prevent the car from starting.
  • Solution: Have the battery tested and replaced if necessary. Also, check for parasitic draws from accessories or faulty modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (battery replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck. These are often caused by loose trim pieces or components.
  • Solution: Locate the source of the noise and tighten or secure the loose components. Applying felt tape can help dampen vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY) - $100 - $300+ (dealer repair, depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2021 Lexus RC300 is generally a reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues with oil leaks, turbocharger issues, harsh shifting in the 8-speed transmission, infotainment system glitches, battery drain, and interior rattles. The severity of these issues varies, but turbocharger replacements or transmission repairs can be costly. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the vehicle’s performance and prevent further damage. While the RC300 enjoys a solid reputation, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems.