wagrant28

Hey guys! I was lexus owner about five years ago and am looking to go back. Don't want to spend a lot of money so I've narrowed it down to a 2004 rx330 or a 2005 es330. I'd be looking in the 100k milage range give or take a few thousand for 8k-9k. I realize that with milage that high, problems are more likely to occur, but I was wondering what you all think the more reliable car would be? I've heard horror stories about the rx330 transmission, but haven't found any data on what parts the rx and es actually share. Maybe the es is open to the exact same problems? What would you guys recommend reliability wise? Thanks in advance.

jer

I was under the impression they shared the same engine/transmission as the 2004/2005 were 'camry' based. But I think the issues were not that great for vehicles that were maintained.

Carver

The 1st gen RX300 was the transmission problem child. The 330 tranny is rock solid, just keep the fluid clean.

lexus114

Carver, the transmission in the 2nd Generation is definitely better than the first. I just wish the software was more like the 3rd Generation as far as the shifts.

Carver

I've heard about the shift point problem before but have never experienced it. Mine is buttery smooth. I can't tell from Lexus records if mine was ever flashed so I'm not sure if it ever had the problem.