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Engine & cooling

Lexus RX350 Engine problems by year

150 complaints filed with NHTSA about the Lexus RX350's engine & cooling. Stalling, loss of power, oil consumption, overheating, head gaskets, timing chains and engine failure.

Engine complaints by model year

YearEngine complaintsCrashesInjuriesRecalls
201034100
200926000
200833000
200757000

Latest RX350 engine complaints

2010 Lexus RX350Engine & cooling

We had a known oil line ruptured the oil cooler, there was a serviceable and sit out to the dealers to only repair if it was leaking and they extended it to 10 years $150,000 miles our vehicle had a rupture at 170,000 miles we were never told about the recall or we would have it done earlier we now have sparkles in our oil this is the part that it doesn't leak it ruptures I'm sure all out could place a fire and it certainly is can cause catastrophic damage to the engine 1500 to repair

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 11767950
2008 Lexus RX350Electrical systemAcceleration & cruise controlEngine & cooling

Dear Sir or Madam. My name is [[redacted]], [[redacted]], [[redacted]] living in [[redacted]]. I bought my 2008 Lexus RX400h car, used, in 2014 at a non-Lexus dealership in the [[redacted]] where I used to live. My Lexus VIN is: [[redacted]]. I've been satisfied with the car..until today. The car had been running smoothly forever, and this morning while I was driving I came to a stop (red light) and the car suddenly shut down completely, including the loss of lights, and the whole dashboard went dark. Other cars...

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behind me were honking their horns. I could not even turn on the hazard lights. After 1-2 minutes, all of the lights/warnings started coming on one after the other. I started the car again and run around three different errands without having further issues. I checked online to see if other owners had experienced a similar situation, which is the case. One person said that there had been two recalls in 2011 and 2013, both related to the inverter module inside the hybrid system. Although, I called today a Lexus dealership, [[redacted]], located in [[redacted]], and I was told there are no recalls for the VIN number that I provided. Another owner said she/he went to a Lexus dealer in [[redacted]] and she was told it was a defect in the gutter drainage design and that water gets into the hybrid system. This is a dangerous and potentially catastrophic situation if the vehicle suddenly shuts down on a freeway/highway putting passengers in risk of harm, injury, or death. This is a horrific defect which Lexus should correct immediately with a recall before one of us ends up at the cementery. I am glad to know that organizations such as the NHTSA exist, and I will appreciate very much that immediate action is taken on this matter. Sincerely, [[redacted]]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Incident Electrical system · Vehicle speed control · EngineNHTSA 11743901
2010 Lexus RX350Engine & coolingFuel system

I was looking at common problems associated with the make and model of my car. I came across an issue that could possibly cause engine failure. I am unsure if any one has reported it yet. here are the details - Problem overview An VVT-i oil line on the Lexus RX350 is known to burst. This is a very large leak which covers the ground, engine, and undercarriage. If the oil line ruptures while driving, the low engine oil message and engine oil pressure warnings will illuminate. Continued use after these warnings...

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will result in complete engine failure due to oil starvation. The line is known to be defective, and a revised part has been issued by Toyota, however, this revised part is known for the same issue. To repair the issue, the line must be replaced, and the engine bay and undercarriage must be cleaned thoroughly. The problem has occured generally around 120k miles. Here is the link to the website that has collected information from 116 users. Requesting you to please check if this a problem that needs a recall? [[redacted]] ely report it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Incident Engine · Fuel / propulsion systemNHTSA 11734624
2009 Lexus RX350BrakesEngine & cooling

The contact owns a 2009 Lexus RX 350. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment with the check engine oil warning light illuminated. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the oil cooler hose was leaking due to a hole. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a different independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed...

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and determined that the oil cooler hose was leaking due to a hole. The vehicle was not repaired. A dealer was contacted and informed that there was no recall associated with the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The manufacturer made the contact aware of the Limited Service Campaign Number: LSC9LH. The failure mileage was approximately 190,000.

Filed Incident Service brakes, hydraulic · Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 11716172
2010 Lexus RX350Engine & cooling

Pot affects 2007-2011 RX350/450= 459,285 units. 1. On Friday, [[redacted]], the oil cooler pipe burst on our 2010 RX350. 2. All six quarts of engine oil were lost in approximately 700 feet while traveling at 70-75 mph on the highway. 3. Massive amounts of smoke poured from the front of the vehicle & through the air vents, causing my wife & daughter to fear for their safety due to risk of a fire & smoke inhalation. 4. No warning lights appeared on the dash, meaning the vehicle could easily have been driven to...

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engine failure had there been no smoke. 5. 2 Colorado Department of Transportation vehicles & a State Trooper stopped to be sure they were ok & monitor the risk of a fire. 8. Towed & Lexus dealership confirmed seen many 3rd gen RXs with this same issue, some with seized engines because no dash warnings were triggered. 9. Lexus updated part from RUBBER to STEE, acknowledging design flaw. Major Safety Concerns This failure represents a serious safety risk that could have resulted in fire, injury, death, or catastrophic engine/property damage. - Oil spray on hot engine components like the headers & exhaust pipes (700-1100F) poses a legitimate fire hazard considering oil flashpoint (400-700F). - Oil sprayed onto the brakes increased the risk of loss of braking & traction control in sudden/emergency maneuvers. - Engine seizing/stop due to loss of oil could result in an accident if the vehicle stops suddenly on the highway when it seizes, loses control, or the electric steering, braking &/or other safety systems fail. - If this had occurred on a mountain descent from the Rockies into Denver or any other long descent, a fire caused by oil spraying on 700-800F brake rotors or loss of control could have occurred. - Entire underside of the vehicle is coated in oil, contaminating the rear brakes, potentially damaging wiring, solenoids, & other safety-critical components, as well as representing an additional fire risk due to oil on the exhaust pipe. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 11699862
2008 Lexus RX350Engine & cooling

Vvt-I oil line failure. Limited service campaign ended in Dec 2021. No notice sent, no repairs suggested at the dealership within the eligible period. Vvt-I failed and engine lost all oil in minutes while driving, coating the front passenger brake caliper and rendering the breaking dangerously difficult on the passenger side on the highway.

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 11635792
2010 Lexus RX350Engine & cooling

The the VVI oil line failed in April of 2024. Contacted Lexus corporate via phone and problem was never resolved. Fast forward to November 2024 and after paying to have VVI oil line replaced the motor failed on the highway. Mechanic said complete engine failure. THIS CAR WAS A CERTIFIED USED LEXUS AND THEY FAILED TO REPLACE THE VVI DURING THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS! Prior to buying this used car from an individual I called Hendricks Lexus 6935 W Frontage Rd, Merriam, KS 66203 and spoke to service advisor Willie who...

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said if you have any problems with that vehicle bring it in and Lexus IS making good on the hybrid vehicles. After purchase I went to Hendricks 9300 NW Prairie View Rd, Kansas City, MO 64153 multiple times for parts and service history. I spoke to parts manager, service manager and several others and NOT ONE PERSON INFORMED ME OF THE PROBLEM AND IMMEDIATE NEED FOR CONCERN! HOW DID THIS CAR GET CERTIFIED PRIOR TO THE PREVIOS OWNER BUYING THE VEHICLE "CERTIFIED"? I BOUGHT THIS CAR WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT IT HAD BEEN COMPLETELY CERTIFIED AND GIVEN THE 6 year additional warranty to the owner I purchased it from, although they were still considerably below the miles guaranteed with the certification. How did Lexus allow this vehicle to pass the certification without replacing a $100 part that could result in catastrophic failure. THIS CAR WAS SOLD AT A PREMIUM BECAUSE OF THE CERTIFICATION, YET A PART THAT HAD BEEN RECONFIGURED AND IDENTIFIED AS CONTRIBUTING TO A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE AS EARLY AS 2012 WAS LEFT ON THE VEHICLE!

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 11635410
2007 Lexus RX350Engine & cooling

The contact owns a 2007 Lexus RX350. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle began to smoke. The contact pulled over and became aware that oil was leaking from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a service center and the contact was informed that the engine cooler hose had ruptured. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000.

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 11585738
2010 Lexus RX350Engine & cooling

The transmission to oil cooler hose erupted!! Oil was sprayed everywhere along highways. Destroying environment This is an environmental safety issue. As well as a vehicle killer. It is a well documented problem with Toyota and lexus vehicles. Just Google it. Many have been recalled. This is a serious design flaw. The government needs to address this. Every mechanic is stunned at how ridiculous it was to use rubber instead of metal. Toyota/ Lexus needs to recall all vehicles snd repair this. And...

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reimburse those who already fixed them or lost their vehicles. One mechanic said this could result in vehicle fires I realize my vehicle is old. But this is an ongoing issue with multiple years involved. Thank you

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 11573290
2009 Lexus RX350Engine & coolingBody, doors & structure

The contact owns a 2009 Lexus RX350. The contact stated that the dashboard had started to crack, causing the dashboard to become sticky. Over time, there was a glare coming from the dashboard which obstruct the contact's vision while driving. The contact stated that there was condensation in the headlight housings. In addition, there was a puddle of oil was discovered leaking from the vehicle while parked in a parking garage. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where the engine oil...

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cooler pipe was replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that each of the failures had been covered under warranty; however, the warranties had expired. The vehicle was not repaired. The engine cooler hose had been replaced. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

Filed Incident Engine and engine cooling · StructureNHTSA 11548068
2009 Lexus RX350Engine & cooling

Oil line ruptured spilling causing loss of most engine oil on road and potentially ruining engine. Vehicle currently is at Toyota dealership being rep[aired so is available for inspection. Oil on road of course a safety hazard. Oil line rupture was confirmed by Toyota service department. Vehicle had to be towed into repair shop. Rupture occurred spontaneously while drive at 45 MPH on road. No warning lamps on prior to episode and car was driving fine.

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 11546358
2010 Lexus RX350Engine & coolingFuel system

There is a known issue in the form of a Warranty Policy Bulletin and I believe a recall in Canada for a faulty engine oil cooler line that was made of rubber and fails under heat (now replaced by metal lines). This happened to my daughter after a hot day and she pulled away from the driveway the next day. Almost all of the oil leaked out and we stopped the car and had it towed to a Lexus dealership. When it was inspected, it was confirmed this was the issue, and there was a noise in the engine. I have a concern...

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that further engine problems may have resulted in a loose bearing needing compete replacement. This has yet to be confirmed, but seems consistent with the many discussion boards that mention this exact issue.

Filed Incident Unknown or other · Engine · Fuel / propulsion systemNHTSA 11545678
2009 Lexus RX350Engine & cooling

There is a known issue with the Toyota/Lexus 2GR-FE (w/ towing package). The engine is present in many V6 model year SUVs 2007-2011. The defect is with the oil cooler return lines for this engine equipped with the towing package. The issue is that a manufacturing defect with these hoses can occur slowly over the life of the vehicle or suddenly without warning. The rubber hoses used are susceptible to extreme and numerous hot-cold cycles due to a hot nearby catalyst. Over time or suddenly, the hoses will begin to...

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deteriorate due to the hot-cold cycles causing accelerated wear on the defective rubber lines. This may manifest as a small amount of oil seepage at first, or may have no warning signs. When total failure of the hoses does occur, it is typically catastrophic and nearly immediate. Once these hoses do fail, oil will pour out of a low point in the oil cooler, emptying the engine of oil within 2 minutes. If the vehicle is driving while the failure occurs, within minutes oil pressure is completely lost from the crankcase, and catastrophic engine wear/failure will occur, sometimes within just seconds. Often, the engine oil light will not illuminate until several minutes after the hose has failed, typically too late to stop the engine in time. If a moving vehicle experiences catastrophic engine failure due to No Oil, the likelihood of a major safety issue is increased, due to the likelihood of a fire, hot oil pouring onto the roadway, and a loss of power steering control due to loss of engine power. Toyota released a TSB to address this issue, dated 2011, in which they acknowledged the poor design can lead to leaking and failing hoses. In most cases, the service is performed at the full cost of the customer (over $600). It seems millions of these vehicles have not been addressed, and are still on the road, Toyota should be compelled to resolve this defect and hazard at no customer cost under an extended recall.

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 11514608
2009 Lexus RX350Engine & cooling

Oil leaked substantially while driving on the Highway. As we were slowing down on WB I-94 due to construction, our red oil light was on, and then flashing. The car was driven for about 1.5 miles from the initial lit to a safe location (local Honda dealership) where it was determined that the vehicle was no longer drivable. Engine light and all other warning lights were also on as we arrived in the Honda service garage. Upon inspection, 4 quarts of oil were lost and Lexus service center later confirmed that the...

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rubber oil cooler tubes were broken and had to be replaced by the metal ones. Both Lexus Service & Lexus Corp had confirmed that the defective parts for Lexus RX350 year models 2007 - 2011 were installed. They later issued a campaign to have them replaced with the metal tubes. The incident was quite a safety hazard to us (my wife and I) because had we maintained our normal highway speed, there could have been a catastrophic engine failure due to low or no oil. If this happened at night, we would have been stranded on the highway and in the worst case scenario, the engine would have blown up and could have caused fire. After filing a complaint with Lexus Corp and seeking reimbursement for the repairs, Lexus refused to accept the claim, saying that my car was out of warranty. They claimed that notices were sent out, but we never received such notices. The initial representative said the notice was sent out September 2014, but the case manager later said it was October 2015 (very inconsistent here). Meanwhile, I had another recall service done on April 4, 2016, which overlapped with their extended warranty campaign period (01.31.16 to 03.02.19) for these defective tubes, but we were never notified about this. The fact that Lexus did not issue a recall campaign for this is erroneous. Sudden catastrophic engine failures or potential failures is definitely a safety concern. This issue has been documented widely online and is prevalent within the Lexus community.

Filed Incident Unknown or other · EngineNHTSA 11488109
2010 Lexus RX350BrakesEngine & coolingDriver assistance

My AWD check system keeps going on and off every few days. I took it to Mavis who gave me codes and stated that there is a TSB found to the issues my vehicle read. I took it to lexus of Brooklyn who basically disregard the recommendations just so I javelin to pay them again to diagnosis whay was already diagnosed.

Filed Incident Service brakes · Engine · Forward collision avoidanceNHTSA 11463077

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaints and recalls, checked daily. Complaints are owners' own reports and are not verified. How we use the data

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