Lexus RX 2

The Lexus RX (1998) was one of the first luxury Asian SUVs to be the answer to the Mercedes ML W163. The second generation of the model was presented in 2004 at the North American International Auto Show.

Review

The Lexus RX (1998) was one of the first luxury Asian SUVs to be the answer to the Mercedes ML W163. The second generation of the model was presented in 2004 at the North American International Auto Show. Hiroshi Suzuki worked on the design of the car, and he began work on the project in 1999. The model was designated XU30.

In 2007, the SUV underwent a restyling. Changes affected the front grille, fog lamps, and chrome door handles appeared on the doors. The range was replenished with new body colors and models of discs. The car was produced until 2009 at two plants – in Cambridge, Canada and Miyawak, Japan. The Lexus RX is known as the Toyota Harrier.

Engines

3.3 V6 (211 hp) RX 400h (272 hp): 3.3 V6 211 hp + front electric motor (167 hp) and rear (68 hp);

The engine range is not as diverse as the Mercedes ML or BMW X5. Moreover, under the hood of the Lexus you will not find a single diesel. Gasoline engines will be a great help, although the RX300 engine sometimes consumes too much oil.

Having decided to purchase a hybrid version, it is necessary to remember that the battery is not eternal, and the control electronics of the hybrid installation sometimes throw out tricks. But these problems are rare. However, it is best to be careful and carefully check the selected instance before buying in an independent service that is well versed in hybrid cars (which is problematic) or official dealers.

Design features

The RX is equipped with an all-wheel drive system, but there are also front-wheel drive modifications of the FWD. The presence of an all-wheel drive transmission does not mean that the crossover confidently copes with off-road. If you do not want to spend money on repairing the suspension and transmission, then it is better to avoid traffic on any roads without a good asphalt pavement. The RX 400h has two electric motors, one on the front axle and the other on the rear. There is no rigid connection between them in the form of a drive shaft, and there is no possibility of locking in order for the front and rear wheels to receive the same amount of torque. Everything is controlled by electronics, which negates any attempts to get away from the asphalt. All she can do is help a little when driving on a curb or overcoming a dirty puddle. Just a few seconds of driving in difficult conditions is enough, and the “all-wheel drive” stops working. This system makes it easier to drive on slippery surfaces. 1. Under the hood, an internal combustion engine, a continuously variable transmission with a built-in electric motor and voltage inverter. 2. Traction batteries placed under the rear seats. 3. The second electric motor located on the rear axle. It only connects when necessary. In the SUV, two types of boxes were installed: a 6-speed automatic and a continuously variable variable. In particular, the RX 400H is equipped with a fairly hardy CVT. It is worth noting that the transmission of the hybrid in the usual sense is not. Its role is played by only two planetary series, conventionally called the "variator".

Typical malfunctions

What is the fastest Lexus RX wear? First of all, the front suspension, which will require replacing the silenth-blocks of levers, and then also shock absorbers. The cost of air suspension maintenance will be much higher. Unfortunately, the scallop bearings are not durable either. The design of the front suspension allows you to change balls separately from the levers. Due to the large mass of the car, relatively frequent replacement of brake pads and discs is required. Many problems in operation bring and rear calipers, which like to peg. There are also cases of leakage of liquid from the cooling system, and motor oil in the pallet area. The power steering is also not leakproof, and in some cars, it may be necessary to replace the system pump. Sometimes they refuse to obey cruise control. The automatic transmission oil radiator is placed behind the left grille in the bumper. He is often exposed to rocks from under the wheels. Owners of Lexus RX often complain about headlights (easily damaged, fragile latches) and the system of automatic light corrector of xenon headlights. When inspecting the car, you need to pay attention to the state of the “suspension” of the exhaust system. It is gratifying that its repair is not expensive and not complicated. As you age, water begins to get into the trunk – fortunately, it is not as scary as in the case of German competitors. Small traces of rust on the elements of the chassis are not cause for concern. Weak exhaust brackets are often broken. Claims arise to the CD player and navigation system.

Engines

• Having decided to purchase a hybrid version, it is necessary to remember that the battery is not eternal, and the control electronics of the hybrid installation sometimes throw out tricks. But these problems are rare.
• However, it is best to be careful and carefully check the selected instance before buying in an independent service that is well versed in hybrid cars (which is problematic) or official dealers.

Design features

• If you do not want to spend money on repairing the suspension and transmission, then it is better to avoid traffic on any roads without a good asphalt pavement.
• The second electric motor located on the rear axle. It only connects when necessary.

Typical malfunctions

• Due to the large mass of the car, relatively frequent replacement of brake pads and discs is required.
• Many problems in operation bring and rear calipers, which like to peg.
• The power steering is also not leakproof, and in some cars, it may be necessary to replace the system pump.
• Sometimes they refuse to obey cruise control.
• When inspecting the car, you need to pay attention to the state of the “suspension” of the exhaust system.
• It is gratifying that its repair is not expensive and not complicated.
• Small traces of rust on the elements of the chassis are not cause for concern.
• In hybrid modifications, there were problems with the inverter (voltage converter).

The Lexus RX, as befits the brand, doesn't break down too often. But if something goes wrong, repairs won’t be cheap. Don’t expect reasonable operating costs, even if you’re only counting on minor repairs and regular maintenance. Lexus RX forces to come to terms with not very accurate steering, simple design, weak brakes and average quality finishing materials.

If these shortcomings are minor for you, then you can enjoy the rich equipment, high level of comfort, good reliability, large interior space and, of course, the uniqueness of the car itself.

• The Lexus RX (1998) was one of the first luxury Asian SUVs to be the answer to the Mercedes ML W163.
• Engines: Having decided to purchase a hybrid version, it is necessary to remember that the battery is not eternal, and the control electronics of the hybrid installation sometimes throws out tricks. But these problems are rare.
• Design features: If you do not want to spend money on repairing the suspension and transmission, it is better to avoid driving on any roads without a good asphalt pavement.
• Typical malfunctions: Due to the large mass of the car, relatively frequent replacement of brake pads and discs is required.

Shows, bargaining and re-registration take time: buyers look, promise to think and disappear. Fair price after inspection closes the auction on the spot. If money is needed urgently, the purchase takes away waiting and repeat displays.

Leave a request with the car data. We will discuss the preliminary assessment and inspection. After checking the status and documents, we agree on the final price and terms of the transaction.