LexusLimit

I'm planning on getting a 99 lexus RX300 all wheel drive. Does this vehicle have any flaws? I've heard stories of the transmission problems. Let me know.

HarrierAWD

Pick up a copy of Consumer Reports annual auto issue and check out it's extensive owner survey on reliabilities.

VSsc400

iTrader: (1)

99 RX300 AWD 104k miles.

0 and I mean 0 problems. Not even screw loose.

I commute 80miles round trip via Van Wyck, Grand Central, Whitestone, Hutch, and I95.

not a screw loose and you know how bad those roads are.

best car ever.

bizzy928

Do yourself a favour and change the battery right when you get the vehicle. Chances are it hasn't been changed yet and it could start to act up.

Other than that the vehicle is very reliable!

Philly RX

I have 02 TL-S .... this is a car with tranny problems but RX is completely different... its a relly solid car

Francis

I've got 88k miles on my 99' RX FWD. I had replaced battery and idle speed control. That's about it. My rx is very soild work horse. Good luck for your search.

Francis 99' rx

redtoesblue

I have 155,633 Miles on mine and I don't have any problems with it. I am hoping to take it up to 200,000 miles and give it to my sister. I am planning on buying another RX300 but the Black Coach edition version with Navi & HID since I may be moving to a climate where there is a need for AWD.

jassurafs

No problems on my 99 Rx. Apart from the regular maintainence and ordering a spare Master key (yeah its expensive but worth it) I did not run into any issues. Car runs great. There are certain transmission hesitations especially in the cold winter days, but considering the experiences of everyone here, it is pretty normal. Another major issue that people talk about here is sludging. Again, if the car is properly maintained, it should be a non-issue. Look for the manitainence records.

LexusLimit

Thanks for all replies. I've heard various stories about the transmission breaks down and it would cost up to $6gs to fix or replace on AWD models. Just don't know if this happened just to one owner or several owners of the RX300. I've heard of problems shifting in the winter time as well. However I just need the vehicle for a year or two. I found a 99 model for $14gs w/ 87,000 miles on it. The owner said it was driven by his wife. Just wondering if its a good deal and of course I'll ask for all maintenance records.

jassurafs

Not a bad deal I suppose. Also, you are fast approacing the 90K service. It is supposed to be a major service. You might want to consider the cost involved in it. 60K service cost me around $850.

TunedRX300

Check front sidemarkers, multiple owners reported rusted out (not burned out) due to bad seal. I replaced both bulbs and bases at 44K and water literally dripping out from the lens when I replace mine. Does not help that front bumper has two inlet holes to channel moisure directly to sidemarkers.
Brake rotors rust since the non frictional surface are not painted with heat/rust resistant paint. Mine sang aloud when coasting 5-10 mph.

LexusSexus

Well, I have had problems with mine but the service has been a real dream. Needed a new engine a few thousand ago (engine sludged) and just TODAY it looks like my tranny may have gone bad. Dealer is replacing the tranny solenoid (it feels like it is having trouble shifting) and will go from there. Best part of this has been all work was under warranty, nothing lost but a few minutes of my time. I always get a nice loaner and zero hassle. Engine would have cost near $8k if it wasn't covered.