2016-2022 Lexus RX Buyer’s Guide - Reliability & Common Problems

Here's a full buyer's guide video of the fourth generation Lexus 2016-2022 RX 350 AL20 model. I personally recommend a CPO Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and F Sport models from 2018 and up. See my Lexus GX Buyer's Guide Video: • 2010-2023 Lexus GX 460...
This video was done by Kevin from Meyn Motor Group.
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Video Chapters:
00:00 - Lexus RX Quick Review
07:06 - Model Year Changes & Specs
13:03 - Lexus RX Problems
18:07 - Issues & Resources Continued
21:35 - Used RX Market & Pricing
24:17 - CPO Lexus
28:27 - New Lexus RX Financing/Lease
32:02 - Alternative Vehicles & Buying Methods
35:08 - Conclusion
#lexus #lexusrx #rx350

[@MeynMotorGroup]

See my Lexus GX Buyer's Guide here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nGO4f2B6gt97apIsi=VzzbE6Q5nBQCHcKF

[@kansaidan2302]

I own a fully-loaded 2016 RX with 87,000 miles. Drives like a dream. I enjoy the Mark Levinson premium sound. In winter, heated seats steering wheel, and powerful heater are a plus. I love it; it looks sporty and luxurious. Probably keep it for awhile, as I am not a fan of the Turbo-4 new models. It checks off all the boxes, I'm sure, even for the most discerning drivers; I mean, how much luxury and bells and whistles do you do you really need in a vehicle?

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Thanks for sharing!

[@crowlimite]

Just purchased a 2024 rx350 luxury, and it's a dream suv. The panoramic roof and 21-inch wheels set it off . Loaded with everything.

[@phaseglobalradiocom9677]

I was very lucky and purchased my 2016 RX Sports Luxury Top Trim just recently with only 11.000 kilometres. It’s like brand new and has everything I could possibly need in a luxury car. I will not be selling this car period. It’s V6 is sensational and super smooth, it took me 6 months to find this car and it’s been worth it. Your previous RX 350 reviews helped me decide to buy one! Thank you from Australia!

[@kubanskiloewe]

same here but much older with much more mileage. Never ever will i drive a 4cyl Crybaby in such a heavy car. Turbo ?..lol, will loose power under 100000 and is expensive

[@oren0911]

How much you paid in Australia?

[@phaseglobalradiocom9677]

@@oren0911 I paid 65k for it, and the mechanic who inspected it before buying it said it has to be the best value RX used buy anywhere in Australia!

[@jasons_favorite_hobbies]

On my second RX 350. My latest is a fully loaded 2020 with 31k miles. Stunning white pearl flawless and drives like a cloud. Great review. ❤

[@barrydraper]

I originally purchased my low mileage, loaded-out, CPO, 2016 RX350 (Luxury Package) from a local Lexus dealer. As of 2024, it's been a flawless machine, currently at 60K miles. Aside from routine fluid changes, I've only replaced the tires, brake pads and the 12V battery. NO Regrets so far. It's a heavy vehicle and doesn't seem to like heavy traffic, stop & go city driving, but it's a dream ride on the open highway. Great road trip vehicle. I would probably drive the ES350, except I often need the larger cargo space & fold down rear seats. It may be the first model year of this generation, but the components are all made in Japan, with the final assembly occurring at the world class Cambridge, Ontario, Canada plant. This naturally aspirated V6 engine only requires 87 (regular) octane fuel and will definitely outlast the newer, smaller turbo-4 cylinder engines that have since taken over...

[@michaelclark405]

You have the best most detailed reviews!!! Thanks for taking the time to put these videos together for us.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

You’re welcome my friend I’m just glad this content is useful to you!

[@christofonobrown3659]

Thank you so much for keeping up these guides 🙏🏼. This and the ES are such important models to track both new and used.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Not a problem my friend glad this content has been valuable

[@m1thomas1]

I purchased a 2017 rx350 74k miles w/premium package last year (2023). I love it. One little thing that I had to get used to- sometimes there's a little grind at low speed in Eco mode. It doesn't do it as much in sport mode. Had water pump replaced at about 80k mi. I purchased a certified used so it was fully covered. All oil changes and maintenance covered for 2 years. Paid just under 32k drive out. It was a little more than I wanted to pay but the market was competitive and I felt the CPO was worth it.

[@KaayJaay]

L certified. I’ll check it out

[@deyimeng7922]

Been searching for an L model and all models looked confusing when comparing. Thank you so much for the guides, great work! Would recommend 100% :)

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dollyandlouismartinez6450]

Bought a 2018 RX a year ago with 35,000 miles from a private party. So far it’s been a joy to drive,especially on long trips that i do from Phoenix to San Diego. Get 26 mpg freeway driving.

[@kentm8841]

Have had 5 different RX models. Never been in the shop. Most recent purchase is the 2021 luxury model. Very nice.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Have you had any none Luxury models and if so could you please share with us if you’ve noticed a difference in quality in how it drives/feels. Thank you!

[@MrGeezil]

What most Lexus customer say. Never been to the shop , never seen a Lexus on the roadside 😂😂😂😂😂.

[@kentm8841]

@@MeynMotorGroup I have to say the luxury model rides a bit better. But all were very comfortable

[@valeriemay9600]

Thank you so much for this information, I have been studying the Lexus RX 350 for the last 3 yrs, the pandemic slow me down I would have been purchased one. Definitely want the V 6, which the last yr is 2022, will test drive the 2023 soon again Thank you!!!!!!

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Glad it helped!

[@golferpro1241]

Still drive my 2004 RX330 everyday. Hard to beat Lexus!

[@rizhiy1]

Just purchased a 2017 RX with 40k miles dealer only serviced through a private seller. First Lexus. Coming from mostly Japanese cars on the lower end. Drives like a dream! Not looking to go back to a Nissan, Mazda or Toyota 😂

[@KaayJaay]

Last Gen RX350 looks like a beauty. V6. Toyota reliability. The F sport. The L made in Japan but fake 3rd row but more cargo. The original made in Canada. Like a boss lol

[@don-cw1yz]

I would not be worried about buying a Lexus RX 350 or the Hybrid variant made in Canada. The Canadian Cambridge plant is the only other plant other than the 4 Japanese plants that manufacture the RX 350 . That Canadian plant has won the highest Lexus quality awards attainable. The RX 350 is probably the best quality SUV available. It is the perfect size for most people. The most important reason to buy one is their reliability record. Bulletproof engine and transmission. Plus Lexus stands behind their products, unlike many other manufacturers.

[@KaayJaay]

Thanks for the pro tip on Canada 🇨🇦 fab

[@notsodelusional]

Nice work! It's weird how many people ignore your advice about getting the vehicle inspected or bringing a mobile mechanic. Boggles my mind.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Yea my friend used cars are so unpredictable we really have no idea how these previous owners take care of these vehicles so it's imperative a pro looks over the car before buying. If you're getting a CPO car fresh off lease then it's less of a concern

[@sunnyta619]

I purchased a 2016 bmw x3 in 2019 with about 24k miles. Cpo. Bought in PA but when I took to mechanic for inspection in MD where I live it failed. Dealer was very apologetic and fixed it right away. I think they were embarrassed. It was a rear brake issue. No biggie but in future any cpo I buy will be thoroughly inspected idc what the dealer says. Will keep my x3 baby as long as I can but looking at Lexus cpo for next vehicle. Really like the older rx with v6, maybe a gx460 or possibly an es350.

[@Vlad6525]

2020-2022 RX450h have a 10-year battery warranty and there's really nothing to worry about these batteries because they're old school. While they don't provide great fuel economy, they're at least 7-8mpg better than RX350, and the CVT is really awesome.

[@shane6115]

Your correct, anybody who does not buy the hybrid is miss informed and let’s be honest listening to this dude making the video.

[@Milkinporsche]

2020 lexus rx350 with 40k miles, rattles (mainly the dash area) and creeks everywhere.

[@RSH592]

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼Well Done!!!

[@Aniki1111]

Another awesome video, I feel like you should incorporate insurance costs too. My 2008 Impala is significantly less money to insurance than my 2018 Elantra was, and I'm sure Toyota RAV4 will be cheaper than this to insure, I think most people just look at payment.i do think these are awesome cars, just a bit expensive for me lol. Have a great weekend Kevin

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Insurance prices was def something I wanted to incorporate as that really effects monthly ownership but sadly, too many variables go into play like age, location, purpose of the vehicle, driving history, etc. Also with insurance, I noticed you sort of get what you pay for and apparently shopping around rates doesn't seem to help much, prices catch up eventually no matter the carrier they're all pretty close. But I think there is a website where if you enter some of your info, it will show you quotes from multiple carriers. Thanks again for stopping by my friend always a pleasure to hear from you and I hope you are also doing great!

[@alynunez4421]

@aniki1111 Actually the reason we First bought a Lexus WAY back in 2002 was because we LOVED Toyotas BUT had 3 kids under 5 all in car seats & were upgrading from Toyota Forerunner Limited (I Loved my Forerunner!!) to the Toyota Landcruiser (Wider!! Fit 3 car seats easier AND 3rd row seats for grandparents (or remove for Furbabies! Anyway, the Toyota Landcruiser Insurance price was almost TWICE as expensive as the Lexus LX450 (at the time - then we had the LX 470) Compared same year, same mileage approximately, same package (Lexus smoother, quieter, more bells & whistles) BUT the Lexus was LESS expensive to insure!!! WHY?!? My insurance agent & I wondered 🤔 He found out that it’s because people who own Toyota Landcruisers tend to take them Off Roading, skiing, biking, mountains, beaches, etc…. (Like us when we were younger B.C. = Before Children) VS a Lexus LX450 or 470 would tend to be families (like us After Children) who would be using the vehicle to drive to school & activities & family vacations so LESS Risky Behavior!! I was Always Stubborn previously “I’m Never going to drive a “Status Symbol” car!! This sold me (cheaper insurance for the Lexus than the Landcruiser!!) Ever since, we’ve bought almost exclusively Lexus or Toyota!

[@rodnet6020]

Completely disagree with skipping the hybrid models. As long as you can live with the CVT transmission (and why not since the V6 sounds quire pleasant) the hybrids in day to day practice are seriously more fuelefficient and the hybrid system and CVT are completely bulletproof.

[@randallkatada8027]

Purchased a 2020RX Sport 3years ago with 8k miles. Paid $53k out the door. It is fully loaded and includes the 4 year warranty which I have not used yet. The car runs great and I have no buyers remorse which I usually suffer from after spending a lot of money on other cars in the past. This RX has enough power for a little excitement and yet smooth and comfortable to drive every day.

[@blan3378]

My wife has the 2022 (Base Model) . Wifie loves it and has ZERO complaints. Great review as usual!

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Thank you for confirming the model your wife has and happy to hear she loves it! I appreciate your support and kind words!

[@SibySibs]

The L trim is Made in Japan and has an aluminum trim on the rear bumper to differentiate it from the regular one.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Yea it seems that way the L models should be made in Japan many have said the L model feel better to drive and overall to sit in

[@bigal1337]

It’s 2024 just bought a 2019 rx350 with only 50k miles on it. White ext and dark brown int, just an amazing ride! Spark plug replacement at 60k not 100k! Just do maintenance and it will last forever. Have a 2007 rx400h with 205k and it looks and runs perfect! Does not look 17 yrs old! Thank you Lexus!

[@wmuy7068]

I would go for the 450rx h from Japan. I drive a 2018 RX450. Most comfortable, reliable with a smooth V6 engine, car ever.

[@vicenteflores011]

I just bought my fiancé a 2021 RX 350 with 19k miles with the premium + package and she loves it! We tried the F sport but she didn’t like that it was a little stiffer over bumps but that might have just us 🤷‍♂️

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Massive congrats my friend! I’m so glad you both found an RX model that you like, these are epic luxury SUVs for sure 👍 enjoy

[@mlw1700]

I never had any luck from Lexus roadside service.

[@pl7zma]

would you rather own an RX or an ES? I currently have a 2006 RX 330 and am looking to upgrade to something newer. just want something comfortable for long drives. Idc about fuel economy or anything. Would an ES have less road noise? also how would both the ES and RX compare to an LS? the LS is 2x the price but is it also 2x the comfort? As always, I love your take on the complete Ownership experience when reviewing cars.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

The Ultra Luxury ES is epic (UL ES gets noise reduction wheels as well) but so was the 2020 UL RX. Seems like you can save more with a sedan and that's just keep in mind you can't fold down the rear seats in an ES. And no the LS is not worth the price if your sole purpose is comfort and quietness, the ES UL will deliver what you need in some cases it was quieter and more comfortable than most LS 500s I tested.

[@pl7zma]

​@@MeynMotorGroupthank you so much

[@wmuy7068]

I would go for the 450rx h from Japan. I drive a 2018 RX450. Most comfortable, reliable with a smooth V6 engine, car ever.

[@SplittingVoices]

I loved the car but I hated their 8spd transmission. Mine, torque convertor started slipping at around 80K miles. 6spd transmission is way more reliable.

[@KaayJaay]

F Sport looks awesome

[@j0sh4tran]

Bought a 2016 model in 2018 and it has had a lot of the minor problems listed here. I had an inspection done prior (out of town buyer), and he missed everything. Really sucks because he had 5 stars; will never buy a car without doing my own inspection. Placed too much trust in the Lexus brand :(. 1. Sunroof Exploded ($400 to replace) 2. Exhaust drone ($100 to add weights to minimize it) 3. Minor oil leak, started 2023 (not fixed as it'll cost $4k) 4. HVAC gurgling sound (not fixed as it'll cost over $1k).

[@rightminddrive]

these are all extremely minor problems...the only non minor is a the sunroof repair which on a german alternative suv would likely by 5x the cost too

[@melaniejohnson7455]

If selecting from Lexus RX 2018, 2019,2020 and 2021 - do you lean toward one more so than the other when it comes to reliability ?

[@melaniejohnson7455]

also include the 2022.

[@shoshanavlogs1015]

I just got a 2021 Lexus Rx .they offer me a extended warranty do i need to buy an extended warranty? its worth ?

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Did you buy it CPO? If so it would already come with a 2 year warranty. But it really depends on how long you are going to keep the car. Ask them how much it costs, if the warranty is pro-rated, if it covers everything bumper to bumper and for how long. Best warranty companies I know of is Route 66, Fidelity, Freedom, and Portfolio. You can reach out to these companies for quotes as well.

[@KaayJaay]

Pre purchase inspection. Is it necessary even for pre certified from Lexus dealer? L Certified

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Not really if it’s CPO but you should def do a thorough test drive to see if you like it

[@chanmaung]

YUP exhaust drone. I have driven a 2020 brand new one and it has slight exhaust drone. The 2016s has more noticeable drone.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

That is interesting my friend of all the RXs I've tested, I personally never experienced exhaust drone but many have reported this issue online and I thank you for confirming.

[@fluntblunt]

Which specialty engineered whole life insurance company do you recommend?

[@MeynMotorGroup]

I personally have OneAmerica I got it through Chris Naugle's team. Jason Sipple was my agent. It's best to get a policy through companies where you can have mutual ownership like OneAmerica but Chris Naugle's team works with many insurance companies not just OneAmerica. I would also watch as many vids as you can to make sure you understand the process and if it is right for you and your family.

[@fluntblunt]

@@MeynMotorGroup What is a good amount to have?

[@MeynMotorGroup]

@@fluntblunt honestly it really doesn’t matter they can custom build plans for any amount from less that $10k to ultra high net worth individuals you can also start up as many policies as you want.

[@jeffamburgey7485]

It really is a crap shoot, I think Toyota puts the odds in your favor.perhaps you just explained why I always buy the higher trim models. My 19 350L was excellent, my 01 RX was also excellent. We have an ES 300h now that is so good it's hard to believe. LX was in for service and loaner was a new RX almost new, it felt more course to me. The LX 600 and twin turbo is an odd power train to become accustomed to,but when you do it is also excellent, but not as creamy as the previous gen. The ES to me, for the money is a ridiculous value, smooth as silk. My first Lexus not made in Japan but it is so good. I was in it all day in crazy fast bumper to bumper interstate traffic, drives like an older Lexus whisper quiet, and 47.1 mpg at a tad (wink) above the speed limit. I think it is excellent advice to test drive, they do differ in the way they drive, why I do not know. Great review, great advice.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Yea my friend that ES is really mind blowing for the money I don't think people quite comprehend the quality you are getting with that car. When Lexus gets it right, man it is top tier and they tend to get it right on those higher trims but like you said, I have no idea why it's like that.

[@shane6115]

Hybrid is better in every way. More fuel efficient, it uses the engine only 56% of the of time of driving,so obviously it lasts longer, don’t be scared of the hybrid unit it’s perfected, dude your a bit of scare monger towards the hybrid, it’s obvious you have zero experience of them.

[@ambaro0887]

The issue we have here is that there are not many experienced to fix hybrids because they're more systemically complicated. With more components, they have a higher probability of failure naturally..

[@SuperSdbaby]

2015 RX 450h: the starting battery, the starting battery, the starting battery! $450x3 = 😢

[@midiman5045]

I had a 2019 Acura RDX ASpec. First let me say the car was a big disappointment. I had a 90 Legend before so I am comparing apples to apples. The legend was a real Acura not the RDX Issues galore with the RDX. Display issues City gas mileage horrible. I don't drive aggressively. I got lucky and sold the car during the pandemic. Now on to the RX 350 I purchased a CPO 2022 RX 350. I drove quite a few including the L version. The 350 L to me had a little less HP than the 350. I honestly could not tell the difference between the L and the Non L except the length which is about 5 to 6 inches longer. Which being in NYC and parking might have been a bigger issue than you think. I had two in mind after that one was a 2022 white lux and the other a Perm. The white one had a droning noise at 55 mph, it had bridge stone tires the perm had michelin and did not have that noise. I don't know if it was the tires or the car, but it was concerning. Both drove similar to me. I really didn't want the 20 inch rims and tires since I know in the city the bigger the tires the more the gas the car will use in stop and go traffic. Well either way both had the 20 inch rims on them. So I had not choice. Now I choice the 2022 RX 350 Prem. The gas mileage is around 17 in the city and I am very happy. The RDX got 9 to 12 big difference. Also reg gas not prem. Now as far as you stating the F Sport will drive better not sure on that I didn't want those F Sport package for the aluminum pedals and the bigger tires. Had that with the A Spec it got old fast and added nothing to the car in drive ability to me. Bigger Tires does not always equal a better ride. To me the F Sport is like the A Spec which is just and appearance package. Honestly the RX all drove good and equal no F Sport. I drove the RX 350 from Long Island where I purchased it to home and on the highway the car got 33.3 MPG the RDX best got 29 to 30 at 55 mpg with cruse control on. After having the car for a few months I love it. Great car. Not one complaint except it's a little to big but I can live with that.

[@shamshirani7288]

They drive different because of the tire and wheel sizes

[@MeynMotorGroup]

I do agree tires play a role in how a vehicle feels but what I’m describing goes beyond that. The vehicles feel completely more isolated, better built, and less “flimsy” even when moving up to the trim levels I mentioned.

[@theodoreyoung8777]

👊🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@Excalabur50]

Whoops was too busy putting my PC back together and forgot to comment!

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Hey what kind of PC were you putting back together?

[@Excalabur50]

@@MeynMotorGroupMy main rig buddy, so I had GPU issues and then right after my motherboard went as well, so I've been down since December, MSI looked after me very well though with the replacements.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

@@Excalabur50 nice, do you do gaming or is it primarily for work?

[@Excalabur50]

@@MeynMotorGroupGaming buddy!

[@MeynMotorGroup]

@@Excalabur50 sweet! What kind of games are you playing? I personally don’t play anything right now but growing up I was only into racing games. Looking to get back into it as it could be a good brain stimulus

[@theodoreyoung8777]

Yo bro 🤝😎👍🏾👍🏾🫡

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Hey thanks brother for dropping in I hope you’ve been having a great day!

[@theodoreyoung8777]

@@MeynMotorGroup No problem bro I have and hope your are as well 🤝😎🫡

[@MeynMotorGroup]

@@theodoreyoung8777 that is great to hear!

[@StopCappingMan]

Love my new RX500h.

[@MeynMotorGroup]

Nice!

[@donsayers4418]

Very good review. Thanks