In the luxury midsize SUV segment, the competition is highly fierce. Whether it be from the standpoint of comfort or performance, each vehicle has proved its worth. In this mix, the Lexus RX 350 is also an enticing option. While it adheres to the ideologies of the segment, being a by-product of Toyota, it also coalesces reliability. In the current iteration, the vehicle has just 60 complaints listed to its name and has been recalled only once. There are no investigations listed to its name and none of the issues raised by the owners are concerning or have a widespread impact. The 2013 Lexus RX 350 SUV price starts at $39,660 and in its segment, it competes with the likes of the Audi Q7, the Chevrolet Traverse, and the Volvo XC60. How does the Japanese competitor fare against its rivals in terms of ownership experience? Let’s find out?
2013 Lexus RX 350 User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
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Non-deployment of airbags: In a handful of cases, buyers of the 2013 Lexus RX 350 have reported the failure of the airbags to deploy in case of a crash. While the reason for the malfunction is yet to be known, complainants have recorded injuries that require medical attention due to the failure. In one listed case, the driver of the midsize SUVhad been knocked unconscious and had to be admitted to the hospital.
Electric System Complaints
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Minor electrical niggles: In a handful of cases, buyers of the SUV have reported some concerns about the electrical system. Amongst these, the Lexus RX 350 door problems are most commonly recurring. Due to the failure of the door actuators, complainants have recorded the doors failing to open/close as intended, and sometimes, they fail to be controlled by the key fob as well. In other listed examples, a couple of users have also reported the navigation system and radio powering out independently, which restricts access to some essential functionalities.
Mechanical Complaints
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Failure of the water pump: In the 2013 Lexus RX 350 problems list, a chunk of buyers have reported the vehicle making a grinding noise when in motion. In cases where a diagnosis has been conducted, a damaged water pump is regarded as the underlying cause. While the reason for the failure is not known, several similar complaints have been made on the unofficial forums by the owners of the SUV.
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Issues with the braking system: In some cases, the 2013 Lexus RX 350 issues also consist of problems with its braking system. Buyers have reported the inability of the vehicle to come to a halt, despite the pedal being floored. While there is no definitive reason for the recurrence of the failure, a troubling component inside the brake actuator assembly can reduce the SUV’s capabilities. To deal with the issue, Lexushas introduced a recall, referenced by NHTSA ID 14V054000.
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Vehicle Speed Control: Buyers of the 2013 RX 350 have also reported the vehicle accelerating and decelerating independently. In some cases, complainants have recorded the SUV surging forward and picking up speed, despite the accelerator pedal not being pressed. On the other hand, some users have recorded the vehicle losing its speed and stalling inadvertently. Both issues can increase the risk of a crash.
Structural Complaints
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Explosion of sunroof: Without impact or incidence, buyers of the 2013 Lexus RX 350 have reported the sunroof exploding inadvertently. As a result, the glass pane shatters and the glass fragments fly into the cabin or outward, which results in safety havoc.
2013 Lexus RX 350 Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
12th Feb 2014 |
14V054000 |
Problems with the brake actuator assembly |
Due to a failure of an electrical component inside the brake actuator assembly, the Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, and Anti-lock Braking System lights might illuminate, which can be followed by a loss of directional assistance. |
Dealers will update the software for the Skid Control Electronic Control Unit, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2013 Lexus RX 350?
The 2013 Lexus RX 350 is like your general handyman, it excels in more than one field. It resonates with comfort and being a luxury brand, its levels of opulence remain unrivaled. The ride quality is favorable for almost all surfaces and with the kind of tranquility it bestows, seldom would you be irked by the ownership experience. It benefits from its rich safety heritage, and in all aspects, the SUV promises to be a dependable proposition. There are not many complaints registered to its name and even the recalls list is far from concerning. So, if you are in the market for a midsize SUV, the RX 350 is a spectacular choice. However, if you want to keep your options open, even the 2013 Audi Q7 is a force to reckon with.
