The Lexus RX is a midsize luxury SUV that offers plenty of space and a strong performance, making it a great choice for many families. However, with a starting price of $48,600 for a 2025 model, it’s not the most affordable SUV. Luckily, with five generations of the RX, there are many used options to consider. To help you decide which generations are the best in terms of reliability, we’ve ranked them from the least dependable to the most reliable.
First Generation: 1999 – 2003
The first-generation Lexus RX, introduced in the late 1990s, was an impressive luxury SUV at the time. It had a bold exterior and a luxurious interior, standing out against competitors like Mercedes, Cadillac, and Range Rover. However, it quickly gained a reputation for serious reliability issues.
Common Problems:
- Transmission failure
- Oil leaks
- Unexpected acceleration
Many owners reported transmission problems, with the RX’s transmission failing early on. In fact, 124 out of 176 complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are related to the powertrain. Some owners also reported sudden acceleration, leading to injuries. Lexus suspects faulty throttle bodies may be to blame.
Second Generation: 2004 – 2009
The second-generation RX, debuting in 2004, saw many improvements over its predecessor. The model featured a sleek new design, more powerful engines, and a more upscale interior. Reliability also improved significantly compared to the first generation.
Common Problems:
- Leaking brake master cylinder
- Crankshaft pulley detachment (causing loss of power steering)
Despite a few issues like cracking dashboards and faulty brake master cylinders, the second-gen RX earned a solid reliability rating. The final three model years (2007–2009) received a strong J.D. Power score of 88/100.
Third Generation: 2010 – 2015
The third-generation RX continued the trend of luxury and reliability. It offered a V6 engine and even a hybrid option, further improving its appeal. With a J.D. Power score of 93/100 for the 2010 model year, it was the highest-rated RX generation in terms of quality and reliability.
Common Problems:
- Faulty oil cooler line
- Minor electrical and mechanical issues
One of the main problems with third-gen RX models is a faulty oil cooler line, which can lead to oil leaks. Low oil levels can cause engine damage, so it’s important to regularly check the oil. Other reported issues are minor and don’t seem to be widespread.
Fourth Generation: 2016 – 2022
The fourth-generation RX is known for its modern features, great reliability, and stylish design. While it’s relatively new, it has proven to be a solid option for those looking for luxury and performance.
Common Problems:
- Low-pressure fuel pump failure
- Oil leaks, especially from the timing cover gasket
- Braking issues (including chirping sounds)
Problems with the fourth-gen RX include oil leaks, braking issues, and potential fuel pump failure, all of which have led to recalls. However, J.D. Power has given it a strong reliability score of 91/100 for the 2020 model year.
Summary: Later RX Generations Are the Best Bet
While the Lexus RX has generally been a reliable family SUV, the later generations (third-gen and beyond) stand out as the most dependable options. The earlier models, especially the first-gen, had more significant reliability issues that could affect your ownership experience.
FAQs
Which Lexus RX generation is the most reliable?
The third-generation Lexus RX (2010–2015) is the most reliable, with a high J.D. Power rating and fewer major issues.
What problems should I watch out for in the first-generation Lexus RX?
The first-gen RX is known for transmission failures, oil leaks, and unexpected acceleration, which can be serious safety concerns.
Is the fourth-generation Lexus RX a good choice?
Yes, the fourth-generation RX (2016–2022) is a reliable choice, though it has had issues with oil leaks, fuel pump failure, and braking problems.
How does the second-generation Lexus RX compare to other generations?
The second-gen RX (2004–2009) is a solid choice with improved reliability compared to the first generation, but it’s not as reliable as the later third and fourth generations.