2023 Lexus NX250

The 2023 Lexus NX250 is an entry-level luxury crossover known for its comfortable ride, stylish interior, and reputation for reliability. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of reported issues. The NX250 is powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2023 NX include the NX350 with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, the NX350h hybrid with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine paired with electric motors, and the NX450h+ plug-in hybrid with a similar setup to the NX350h but with a larger battery. One common complaint about the NX250 is its relatively slow acceleration compared to other models in the NX lineup. The NX250 and NX350 are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid models use a CVT. Owners often praise the NX250 for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and fuel efficiency, while some criticize its infotainment system, small cargo area, and lack of engaging driving dynamics.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Vibration at Idle
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive vibration felt through the steering wheel and seats when the engine is idling, especially when the vehicle is in drive and stopped. The vibration may lessen or disappear when the vehicle is put in park or neutral.
  • Solution: The most common solutions reported are either a replacement of the engine mounts or performing a software update to adjust the idle speed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Harsh or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or delayed shifting between gears, especially when downshifting. The issue may be more noticeable in colder temperatures.
  • Solution: Some owners have reported that a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) resolved the issue. In more severe cases, some owners have had their transmissions replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $5,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can freeze, lag, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio controls, and climate settings.
  • Solution: Some owners have found that a system reset (holding the power button) temporarily fixes the issue. A software update from the dealership is generally the recommended solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY reset) - $150 (dealership software update)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wireless Charger Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The wireless phone charger in the center console may intermittently fail to charge devices or may stop charging after a few minutes. This can be attributed to the charger overheating, phone case thickness, or phone placement.
  • Solution: First, verify the phone is compatible. Then try removing the phone case. Software updates have also been known to resolve this issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (troubleshooting) - $300 (replacement wireless charging pad)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises from Dashboard/Door Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported rattling noises coming from the dashboard, particularly around the infotainment screen, or from the door panels while driving on uneven roads.
  • Solution: Dealership technicians may need to apply felt tape or foam padding to secure loose components and dampen vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Tailgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic tailgate may intermittently fail to open or close, or it may get stuck mid-operation. This issue may be more prevalent in cold weather.
  • Solution: Potential fixes include resetting the tailgate system, lubricating the hinges and struts, or replacing the tailgate motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (lubrication) - $500+ (motor replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Lexus NX250, while generally reliable, experiences some common issues. The excessive engine vibration and transmission shifting issues are the most concerning from a performance and driving experience perspective, with potentially moderate repair costs. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and wireless charger are annoying but typically have simpler solutions. Interior rattles are a common complaint in many vehicles and can be addressed relatively inexpensively. The automatic tailgate issue can be inconvenient but may not require major repairs. Overall, while these issues exist, they do not appear widespread and are often addressed with software updates or relatively minor repairs. However, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider them during pre-purchase inspections.