Safety was covered thoroughly by ABS brakes, brake assist, traction control, stability control and a full selection of airbags. Surprisingly, owners tended to rate the 'safety' of their RX poorly when surveyed. Perhaps this was due to the decidedly light and car-like feel, as opposed to that of a heavy, hulking truck. Slow engagement of the stability control in bad weather could also be to blame here.
Another other owner complaint relates to a rough ride with large wheels fitted. Squeaks, rattles and wind noises aren't entirely uncommon as the second-generation RX ages, either- especially around the windshield and dash. Be sure to turn down the stereo and have a listen on a test-drive.
You'll also want to check for any sort of hesitation from the transmission during acceleration. This problem is reported fairly commonly by owners of the RX, and it seems to manifest itself as a sluggish feel, or a resistance to downshifting. It's not clear what the cause of the problem is, but a similar problem on another Lexus model was easily remedied by a computer reprogramming.
Note that a rough or inconsistent idle can be caused by a dirty air control valve or sensor in the vehicle's intake system (a fairly easy fix), and that any shimmying or pulling in the steering or front end may indicate an alignment problem.
Finally, be sure that the 'check engine' light isn't illuminated, and that the liftgate in the back opens fully under its own power. If it doesn't, the gas-charged struts that lift it could be worn out.
Recall items dealt with fairly minor items like malfunctioning lights, seatbelts of improper specification and faulty floor-mat retaining clips. The latter recall is especially important, as it could cause the driver's floor-mat to jam the accelerator pedal. Head to a Lexus dealer with the vehicle's VIN number to see if any recall work is outstanding.
A quick check of the undercarriage for dents or leaks and an air conditioning inspection are both good pre-purchase investments here. As with any used car, a full, pre-emptive fluid change is a smart move if the vehicle's history is unknown.
All in all, the list of common potential issues with the second-generation RX could be considerably worse. This will amount to a good, sensible choice in a used crossover, though resale values will reflect its reputation. Expect top selection of second-generation trade-ins at dealers this spring as the third-generation 2010 RX goes on sale.
photo:Lexus
Another other owner complaint relates to a rough ride with large wheels fitted. Squeaks, rattles and wind noises aren't entirely uncommon as the second-generation RX ages, either- especially around the windshield and dash. Be sure to turn down the stereo and have a listen on a test-drive.
You'll also want to check for any sort of hesitation from the transmission during acceleration. This problem is reported fairly commonly by owners of the RX, and it seems to manifest itself as a sluggish feel, or a resistance to downshifting. It's not clear what the cause of the problem is, but a similar problem on another Lexus model was easily remedied by a computer reprogramming.
Note that a rough or inconsistent idle can be caused by a dirty air control valve or sensor in the vehicle's intake system (a fairly easy fix), and that any shimmying or pulling in the steering or front end may indicate an alignment problem.
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| 2005 Lexus RX 400h |
Finally, be sure that the 'check engine' light isn't illuminated, and that the liftgate in the back opens fully under its own power. If it doesn't, the gas-charged struts that lift it could be worn out.
Recall items dealt with fairly minor items like malfunctioning lights, seatbelts of improper specification and faulty floor-mat retaining clips. The latter recall is especially important, as it could cause the driver's floor-mat to jam the accelerator pedal. Head to a Lexus dealer with the vehicle's VIN number to see if any recall work is outstanding.
A quick check of the undercarriage for dents or leaks and an air conditioning inspection are both good pre-purchase investments here. As with any used car, a full, pre-emptive fluid change is a smart move if the vehicle's history is unknown.
All in all, the list of common potential issues with the second-generation RX could be considerably worse. This will amount to a good, sensible choice in a used crossover, though resale values will reflect its reputation. Expect top selection of second-generation trade-ins at dealers this spring as the third-generation 2010 RX goes on sale.
photo:Lexus
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