2021 Lexus RX350

The 2021 Lexus RX 350 is a luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride, reliability, and upscale interior. The RX 350 comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While the RX 450h is available as a hybrid, this response focuses solely on the RX 350 configuration. Owners often praise its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and user-friendly technology. Common complaints include the somewhat uninspiring driving dynamics and the infotainment system’s touchpad interface, which some find clunky.

Engine

3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)

• Fuel Injector Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported fuel injector leaks, causing a strong fuel odor, rough idling, and potential engine misfires. This issue may be more prominent in colder climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leak From Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported an oil leak from the front timing cover of the engine. Symptoms include visible oil drips, a burning smell if oil contacts hot engine parts, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Resealing the timing cover or replacing the gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200-$2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (AA80E)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears. Some report hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software updates. $2,000 - $6,000+ for more extensive repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of suspension components, such as bushings, ball joints, and struts, leading to a clunking noise when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per component, depending on location and part.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, such as freezing, slow response times, or unexpected reboots. This is often related to the touchpad interface.
  • Solution: Software updates may address some glitches. In more severe cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $2000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently or if aftermarket accessories are installed.
  • Solution: Checking for parasitic draws, replacing the battery, or addressing issues with aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ (battery replacement), varies for parasitic draw diagnosis and repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic High Beam Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic high beam system may not function correctly, either failing to turn on or off appropriately in response to oncoming traffic or ambient light.
  • Solution: Recalibration of the system, or replacement of the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported cracking on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000-$2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Lexus RX 350 generally enjoys a reputation for reliability. The most common issues reported include fuel injector leaks and some transmission concerns. Electrical glitches within the infotainment system and premature wear on suspension components also appear in owner complaints. While some repairs, such as fuel injector replacement, can be moderately expensive, the RX 350 is not plagued with widespread catastrophic failures. Overall, the severity and cost of potential issues are generally moderate compared to other vehicles in its class.