Lexus’ latest RX crossover hit the market for model-year 2016, combining the model’s long-held promise of long-term value and owner satisfaction with a new look, a knockout new cabin, and a new array of equipment and tech.
The fourth-generation RX lineup was offered in 3 models at launch, including the standard RX, the athletic RX F Sport, and the hybrid-powered RX 450h.
Premium feature content included Mark Levinson stereo systems, a Head-Up Display (HUD), standard 8-inch display interface, woodgrain accents, Lane Departure Alert, wireless smartphone charging, a panoramic moonroof, and more.
A high-strength new body structure formed the basis for improved ride and handling characteristics, as well as a quieter and more comfortable ride. The AWD system now featured enhanced torque vectoring, and more fuel-efficient operation.
Look for a 3.5-litre V6 with direct injection, available in both conventional and more powerful hybrid configurations. The standard engine generated 295 horsepower; the hybrid generates 308.
From model-year 2019, an extended-length RX L model was offered with 3-row seating. This model was available in RX 350L and RX 450hL variants, designating standard and hybrid-powered models, respectively.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity arrived from model-year 2020, alongside an update that saw the RX line fitted with new styling elements and a wider deployment of high-end features across the model range.
Follow the related links for more information, specs, pricing, news, and reviews on the Lexus RX, and read on for five tips to help you find the best used model you can for your dollar.
2022 Lexus RX 450h F Sport Series 3 Photo by Brian Harper
Tip 1: Start off right
Lexus has a reputation for building some of the most reliable luxury vehicles on the road, though second-hand shoppers can take a few easy steps to ensure they’re starting their ownership experience off on the most trouble-free footing possible.
If you’re about to pull the trigger on a used Lexus RX, remember that having a pre-purchase inspection (PPI), confirming that all software updates and recall work are up to date, and confirming proper health from the vehicle’s battery are great ways to fend off potential trouble, reveal potentially-pricey surprises, and ensure the most reliable ownership experience.
Ensuring the model you’re considering is running a fresh cabin air filter can also be helpful to mitigate and prevent performance problems with the climate control system.
Test-drive the used RX you’re considering on a rough road, quieting the cabin and listening closely to the rear of the vehicle. Drive at a low to moderate speed, and be on the lookout for squeaking or chirping sounds from the rear suspension in this setting. These sounds may be more apparent in cold temperatures, or as the vehicle comes to a complete stop.
If you detect any unwanted noise, have the vehicle inspected and ask the servicing dealership to reference Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #L-SB-0030-19.
Lubrication of suspension components may help fend off irritating noises, but some owners have had trailing arm assemblies replaced, typically under warranty.
Lexus RX 450h
Tip 2: Hybrid checks
If you’re considering an RX hybrid, there are a few important things to know.
First, some models have an air intake filter for the hybrid traction battery pack. Its job is to remove dust and debris from the air pulled into the battery pack by its cooling fan, which helps regulate the temperature of the battery and ensure optimal performance of the hybrid system.
Check the servicing status on this filter: if it’s clogged, hybrid system problems become more likely.
During a pre-purchase inspection (PPI), a hybrid-trained Lexus technician can make other inspections and perform other diagnostic procedures to ensure that hybrid drive system components are all in tip-top shape, and reveal any potential trouble.
Second, note that from model year 2020, Lexus extended the hybrid battery warranty on the RX to 10 years / 240,000 kilometres.
2017 Lexus RX 450h Photo by Peter Bleakney
Tip 3: Connectivity checks
According to data from JD Power and Associates, the most commonly reported problems amongst newer vehicles pertain to the infotainment system.
Some Lexus RX owners have complained of problems with USB audio playback, stereo systems that have trouble reading audio from certain sources, connectivity problems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and audio quality problems related to Bluetooth calls and audio streaming. Most have not.
For best results, check all infotainment system functions thoroughly on your test-drive, confirm proper operation of the wireless charging system (if equipped), confirm an adequate quantity of USB and charging ports, and check for outdated navigation system maps.
Note that using a new, high-quality USB cable to connect your smartphone to the RX’s infotainment system can fend off trouble, and that disconnecting connected USB storage devices from the vehicle while it’s parked may help extend the lifespan of the vehicle battery.
2017 Lexus RX 450h Photo by Peter Bleakney
Tip 4: Oil leaks
Some Lexus RX owners have reported an oil leak from the engine’s timing cover, likely caused by a manufacturing defect relating to the gasket or sealant used in assembly of the engine. Most have not.
In many reported cases, this problem is detected and dealt with under warranty — though it can be a pricey fix if not.
This problem is seldom reported relative to overall sales volume, though test-driving shoppers should take steps to inspect the RX’s engine for signs of an external oil leak from this area. Have a technician make the inspection for you, if you’re not sure how.
This is one of many rare but potentially serious problems a technician can reveal during a pre-purchase inspection (PPI).
2020 Lexus RX Photo by Peter Bleakney /Driving
Tip 5: Braking power
Numerous owners of 2016 and 2017 units have reported difficulty in starting their RX’s, as well as the presence of a “BRAKING POWER LOW” warning message in the instrument cluster. This situation seems most likely when the vehicle has been parked for several days, and may be more likely in vehicles with weak or dying batteries.
According to a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) from Lexus, the warning message will disappear once the vehicle is started, and the vehicle will operate normally. A software update can be applied to ‘minimize customer confusion’ related to the warning message.
There are two takeaways here: first, trickle charging your RX’s battery to help maintain its charge level is a good idea when you’ll be parking for more than a few days on end; second, take any warning messages relating to the vehicle’s braking system seriously and have the vehicle professionally assessed as soon as possible.
Final Thought
These tips are intended to help test-driving shoppers more easily identify possible trouble areas reported by some owners. An attentive test drive and shopping process that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand Lexus RX.
Keyword: Used Guide: 2016+ Lexus RX