2021 Lexus RC350
The 2021 Lexus RC350 is a luxury coupe known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and reliable performance. It typically appeals to drivers who appreciate a blend of sporty handling and upscale amenities. The RC350 comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission for rear-wheel-drive models and a 6-speed automatic transmission for all-wheel-drive models. People generally like the RC350 for its distinctive styling, smooth ride, and Lexus reliability. Common dislikes often include the limited rear seat space, dated infotainment system, and less engaging driving experience compared to some competitors. Here’s a breakdown of the common issues reported for the 2021 Lexus RC350:
Engine
3.5L V6
- Fuel Injector Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough idling, misfires, and decreased fuel economy. These issues can sometimes be attributed to faulty fuel injectors.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected fuel injectors is usually required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (RWD Models)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted instances of harsh or abrupt shifting, particularly between lower gears. This can manifest as a noticeable “clunk” or “jerk” during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update or recalibration of the transmission control module (TCM) can alleviate the issue. More severe cases may require transmission repairs or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $5,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Automatic (AWD Models)
No Issues Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: The Lexus infotainment system, while reliable overall, can occasionally exhibit glitches such as freezing, slow response times, or connectivity issues with smartphones.
- Solution: A system reset or software update is typically the first step. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (system reset) - $1,000+ (infotainment replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Occasional issues with sensors, such as those related to the parking assist system or blind-spot monitoring, have been reported. This can lead to false alarms or a complete lack of functionality.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor are usually required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the sunroof, including difficulty opening or closing, unusual noises, or leaks.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the sunroof mechanism and replacement of faulty components, such as the motor or seals, may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Navigation System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the navigation system, including inaccurate directions, slow response times, or difficulty updating maps.
- Solution: Updating the navigation system software or maps may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacement of the navigation unit may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (software update) - $1,000+ (navigation unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
No Issues Found
Summary:
The 2021 Lexus RC350 is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it can experience certain issues. The most commonly reported problems relate to the infotainment system, fuel injectors, and the 8-speed transmission in RWD models. While some issues, like infotainment glitches, can be relatively minor, others, such as fuel injector problems, can lead to more significant expenses. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the repair needed. Buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider them when evaluating a used 2021 RC350.