gentoo

I currently drive a 2008 RX 400h with 75K that I bought new. I have kept up with all factory service. It is falling apart and I am disappointed! Even Lexus doesn't know why so much is failing at the same time.

Anyway, after test driving Acura MDX, Infiniti S60, RX 350 and MB 350 ML, I loved the ride, handling, comfort, back up camera and more of the MB, but think RX 350 may be more sensible choice. Any thoughts?

I can't risk another repair bill in the thousands and not interested in waiting on 2016 or a third row.

Leap

There is another recent thread comparing the ML.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-13-ml-or.html

Although if you don't want to risk a repair bill in the thousands, I wouldn't consider an ML past the warranty...

JDR76

That's too bad about your RX400h. Those are typically very reliable. What specifically is falling apart on it?

Read the thread that Leap linked. Lots of good information there. Good luck in your decision!

gentoo

Radiator, water pump and timing belt and control arms

gentoo

Thanks for the link. My forum searches were coming up with nothing.

vlad_a

Radiator may rust through due to salt deposits.
You are only 15K away from the timing belt job and the water pump.
Control arms (bushings) typically last about 75K miles. I replaced those on my last IS300 at 10 years and 87K miles. Same was for the timing belt. The radiator on it was still original, though.

What were the symptoms, or did the dealer inform you?

gentoo

The dealer informed me during my scheduled service. The dealer comped some parts and I paid labor. I always thought I would be a legacy customer but am having major doubts.

vlad_a

Just keep in mind, [most] dealers have an interest when you have this set of mind.
They get you on both fronts, first the labor labor and parts charges and second when you trade-in your car.

I cannot say whether any of this work was legitimate, but if your vehicle was not leaking fluids, overheating, clunking, or showing any other symptoms, I would recommend getting a second opinion next time.

My experience with older Toyota vehicles has been nothing but positive. Do regular maintenance, replace tear-and-wear items, and they will run forever (until they rust through). However, if I was having a dealer maintain any of them, the result would have been very different.

P.S.
A buddy of mine just got a brand new BMW X1. He can't even properly break-in this car - he is mostly driving loaners. It is falling apart right from the assembly line.

gentoo

Maybe I am naive but I thought the computer diagnostic would be accurate. In any event, if these things were not wrong with the car, they won't get a sale because I will use a car buying service to get the best deal in my area.

vlad_a

I am not sure what computer diagnostics have to do with a radiator, water pump, timing belt and control arms.

Now, it is entirely plausible to use a computer to calculate exactly how much and what services to charge you for to make you trade in your vehicle. That's BI for ya. Pretty cool stuff.

sears1234

After owning 5 Lexus, I'm very disappointed of the quality of Lexus, I bought a mercedes e350 bluetec, it run superior .
My thought is mb has much better material and build quality.
Just knock on the wood, my e350 has zero issue so far.

I will purchase a gl or ml to replace my rx450h next.

gentoo

Woke up to a check engine light this am! I haven't had a car that is so problematic since a used Chevy Camaro in the 80's. The Lexus reputation for mechanical dependability seems illusory to me.

BertL

OP, I'm sorry you are continuing to have problems and are disillusioned with your 400h.

In my personal experience owning multiple Lexus since the early '90s (including a 2006 RX400h for nearly 7 years) I've had zero mechanical issues of any substance, but I have also religiously had maintenance performed on-schedule by Lexus dealers 100% of the time. I'm not aware of pervasive issues like you are encountering, but if you've not found it, THIS SUBFORUM is the place to go for RX400h specifics.

FWIW, my former BMW 335i was a mechanical nightmare with poor post-sales service that compounded my concerns, causing me to sell that car way-too-soon and swear off the brand forever -- but there are others that still love their Bimmers and 3-Series, albeit perhaps growing issues and cost as some vehicles age compared to others. We all end up making the decision that best suits us, based on our own preferences and experiences -- and sometimes, no matter the brand, one vehicle may have more issues than the general lot for any number of reasons.

I wish you the best getting your RX400h situation sorted out, and yourself into a vehicle that better suits your needs. Good luck.