You can join the discussion or ask a question at the link above.
The topic of "unreliability" of automatic transmissions on the first generation Lexus RX 300 is raised more often than others.
To dispel myths and legends, collect general information and just opinions, this topic was created. This (root) post will collect key links as well as useful information.
Myth - the RX300 automatic transmission is unreliable.
Reality - With proper operation, the service life of the RX300 automatic transmission is about 300 thousand kilometers.
Myth - automatic transmission repair Lexus RX 300 is insanely expensive
Reality - no more expensive than most cars with automatic transmission. About 60 thousand rubles on a turnkey basis, with removal, installation, spare parts and all consumables. And the reliability after repair is much higher than European cars.
At the moment, the club community has concluded that the best place to repair the automatic transmission is the club's partner, the company. The cost of a complete repair of an automatic transmission with a club discount is less than 60 thousand rubles, the quality has been checked by club members.
The main reasons for repairs:
1. Slipping. The RX300 is not an SUV, but a SUV. Don't skid! If you have sat down, it is better to immediately find the cable than to force the transmission! Trying to get out of the way is the death sentence of an automatic transmission.
2. Changing the oil to a non-original... In the automatic transmission RX300 - pour only Type T-IV, original Toyota oil. Do not listen to "experts" who assure that this is "an ordinary Dexron, the current is more expensive." T-IV contains a number of specific frictional additives that are specifically designed for this type of transmission. "Analogs" from Castrol, etc., which supposedly fully correspond to T-IV, have also been brought up more than once.
3. Untimely or illiterate filter replacement... Washing the filter of the "old" sample (iron mesh), instead of changing to the "new" one (with paper filling). The topic of automatic transmission filters on the RX 300 is
4. Oil change in automatic transmission... with answers and opinions on many popular questions.
5. Continuous driving at high speed with heavily soiled cooling radiators ("main" and under the wing). The consequence is overheating, a decrease in the resource.
6. Coiled run!... Most RX300s in Russia have coiled mileage, although 99% firmly believe in its "honesty" and carefully pass on the "legend" explaining the 100 thousand miles on duty ("the oligarch's wife hardly traveled," "the minister gave her daughter, and she went to study in Cambridge "," the eighth car in the family "," I just went to the beach and drove a VAZ2107 "," I have a Harrier, but they don't drive much in Japan, I have pieces of paper with hieroglyphs ", etc.) about my car to the next buyer.
But look at things sensibly. The RX300 is a comfortable and fast car. Less than 20 thousand a year for such a car is a unique case (legends go to the furnace!). More often 25-30, sometimes more. Thus, for the average static RX300 99-2000, we get for 2008 a mileage of about 200-250 thousand kilometers. Not less! ... And most likely, over the years, the car has seen all kinds of things. The previous owners slipped on a fishing trip or in a snowy yard, and the oil change period was overdue a couple of times ("Japanese is not Lomazza!") And in the "service of good friends" they changed the oil to Mobile-ATF at 100 rubles per can. And here is the result. Your box needs repair.
Hope dies last. Variants of "shamanism" (or maybe the wiring is gone, the terminal should be removed from the battery, or is it just the oil to be changed?) Help in 1 percent out of 100. If you want to waste a couple of hundred before repairing, the choice is yours.
Do you still have doubts, want to know more?
Then below are collected links for you that will answer all your questions.
1. Club "Knowledge Base"... Start from here! Please read the section on
5. - general theme
Attention! In disputes, truth is born. When reading the materials, keep in mind that some opinions expressed in disputes are controversial! But after spending about an hour studying a selection of texts, you yourself will understand what is true and what is not.
Before asking questions, carefully read the entire thread, links and the information they contain!... Detailed answers have already been written for 99% of the questions, do not be lazy to find them yourself!
For the first time, the second generation of the mid-size crossover Lexus RX (Toyota Harier in Japan) was presented to fans of the brand in January 2003 at the North American Auto Show in Detroit. The second generation Lexus RX crossover was produced from 2003 to 2009 and was produced at factories in Japan and Canada, in 2010 it was replaced by the third generation Lexus RX.
The exterior of the 2003 Lexus RX largely inherited the successful design of the previous generation - the first crossover from the Japanese company Lexus. At a cursory glance of an inexperienced motorist - representatives of two generations it was easy to confuse, especially in the front part of the body, but there were certainly differences.
Lexus RX of the second generation has grown in size, in comparison with its ancestor, its dimensions have increased in length by 165 mm (up to 4740 mm), in width by 29 mm (up to 1845 mm), in height by 11 mm (up to 1680 mm), wheel dimensions base by 100 mm (2720 mm), the ground clearance remained at the level of 190 mm (with the air suspension installed, the ground clearance was from 170 mm to 215 mm). The front of the crossover has large triangular headlights, the underside bordering the bumper. A neat trapezoidal false radiator grille with smooth bends at the corners is located between them, on the hood as if flowing down. The front bumper with an additional air duct at the bottom carries plastic protection, the crossover unpainted plastic is present on the boxes and the rear bumper. Profile of the second generation Lexus RX - with large doors, large wheel arches that can easily accommodate "rollers" 225/60 R17 or 235/55 R18, with a powerful rear roof pillar, which, together with inflated fenders and high-rise lighting shades, forms a monumental stern. The sloping roofline and heavily piled up pillars give the body a sporty, unstoppable look. The spoiler located above the sloping glass of the fifth door seems not superfluous. The rear crystal chandeliers with LED lamps look amazing, especially in the dark.
The aerodynamics of the Lexus RX are the best in the class, only 0.33 Cx. Such a good result was made possible by the installation of aerodynamic bumpers, a spoiler and generally smooth contours of the crossover body. As a result, the designers have completely succeeded in the image of the impetuous eater of kilometers of motorways.
The interior of Lexus cars amazes the average car owner with quality materials and a high, almost reference level of assembly and equipment. But for the owners of such cars, this is the norm.
The second generation Lexus RX is fully electrified inside. Comfortable leather seats - with a lot of electrical adjustments, the steering column obligingly enters the dashboard when getting in and out of the car. The steering wheel is the optimal size for the driver, pleasantly tactile and perfect in grip. The three deep wells of the dashboard are completely dark, but once you insert the key into the ignition switch, they come to life and give rise to an enchanting performance. The front dashboard is massive, but just enough to fit harmoniously into the interior of a large crossover. The center console is stylishly framed on the sides with metal overlays, it houses music controls, climate control, in the most saturated versions, a touch-screen screen with a rear-view camera and GPS-navigator. At the bottom of the console at high tide, a stylish automatic control lever. There is no transmission tunnel in the cabin, in front you can easily change places with the driver, but in the back, the passenger sitting in the middle does not have to feel deprived of space. In the second row it is convenient and comfortable, the rear seats move on a sled, the backrests change the angle of inclination. The luggage compartment is perfectly organized and, thanks to the placement of the spare wheel from the outside under the bottom, easily accommodates from 440 to 2,130 liters of cargo. The rear door is optionally equipped with an electric drive. Cars sold in Russia were richly equipped: climate control, full power accessories, leather trim, Lexus branded music (possibly even Mark Levinson), xenon, sunroof, eight airbags and a host of other useful and necessary gadgets.
2nd generation Lexus RX specs- a typical representative of "SUVs". This is a crossover with a permanent all-wheel drive system, implemented through the work of free differentials and electronic simulation of locks (TRC). Front and rear suspension independent on MacPherson struts with anti-roll bars and coil springs (optional pneumatic elements), power steering, disc brakes with ABC EBD and VSC stabilization system.
For the 2003-2006 Lexus RX, two gasoline six-cylinder engines were offered. The American version of the Lexus RX330 (230 hp) and the European Lexus RX300 (204 hp), three years after the start of production, were replaced by the Lexus RX 350 (276 hp). All engines were aggregated with a 5-speed automatic only. In 2005, the complex hybrid Lexus RX 400h appeared - its sales in Europe were even greater than those of the petrol brothers.
The driving characteristics of the second generation Lexus RX amaze with the softness of the suspension (regardless of normal or pneumatic), absolute indifference to the poor quality of Russian asphalt, perfected handling, stability at high speeds (up to a maximum speed of 200 km / h), excellent sound and noise insulation of the cabin. At any speed Lexus RX gives a feeling of impetuosity, but at the same time reliability and complete calmness, it seems that it is simply impossible to knock it off the trajectory of movement. Many owners consider this car to be the best crossover of all the analogues on the market. Off-road, the Japanese express becomes helpless and, accordingly, useless, even a light off-road is a stumbling block for it. When the wheels slip, electronics choke the engine and doom the Lexus RX to a stop in difficult-to-pass places. Its element is the autobahns, while driving a Lexus RX crossover, you can easily drive a thousand kilometers without rest, just remember to refuel it. Average fuel consumption is 12.5-15 liters, depending on driving style.
In the secondary market, there are a lot of offers for the sale of the second generation Lexus RX. The price in Russia for a used Lexus RX crossover in 2012 ranges from 800,000 rubles for a 2003 car to 1,400,000 rubles for a well-groomed copy of 2009.
From the beginning - general information. Don't expect to see mechanical gearboxes on the RX - there are only submachine guns. Front wheel drive cars exist, but there are very few of them. All-wheel drive on RX - with a traditional center differential, and on restyled cars - even with a viscous clutch that blocks it. In principle, the design was the same on the first generation RX, but when the generation changed, the drive circuit was slightly simplified. A car with such a lock does not become a serious SUV, but handling is slightly better on slippery surfaces. In addition, without blocking, breaking the transfer case turned out to be easier than ever: it was enough to skid for a couple of minutes with a completely stationary rear axle. For example, on running drums when passing a vehicle inspection.
The mechanical part of the transmission is exponentially reliable. You just need to watch the CV joints anthers, and after one and a half hundred thousand run, listen to the vibrations at the start. If there are any, you will have to check the propeller shaft, or rather, its intermediate support, in order to avoid expensive repairs to the "pipe" itself. And do not forget that the oil in the transfer case and the rear gearbox must be changed every 40-50 thousand kilometers. It is there, of course, not eternal.
On front-wheel drive cars, early wear of the CV joints is possible, especially the inner tripod, which is expressed in increased noise and obvious overheating of the cover plastic under prolonged load.
Now let's move on to the gearboxes.
Automatic transmissions on all non-hybrid versions are variations of the Aisin 95-51LS unit (Toyota classification U151F / E). In general, the classic - five steps, electronic control and a rather conservative design.
On most cars, before restyling, the automatic transmission has a dipstick, and in most American cars with the option of towing a trailer, the box from the factory is equipped with an external reinforced radiator, and not just a heat exchanger in the engine radiator.
There are several versions of the automatic transmission control unit. For European cars, even a tiptronic was offered - a variant with manual gear shifting, but in fact, all boxes are completely identical in terms of resource and capabilities.
Mono-drive 151E gearboxes are cheaper, and the exact same ones were installed on Camry, RAV4 and a bunch of other models, so if necessary, you can find a completely live machine from a lighter car with a weak engine. On a heavy crossover, even the mono-drive box is very heavily loaded. All-wheel drive automatic transmissions 151F are more than one and a half times more expensive and probably have less residual life.
Nevertheless, the automatic transmission of the E series perfectly turns into an F, you just need to change the "bell", the main pair, and sometimes put the reference disc and sensors. This will significantly reduce costs in the event of an automatic transmission breakdown. Indeed, the repair of this five-step unit usually costs more than 60 thousand, and most likely, the price will be twice as high: the “standard” set of spare parts with a full bulkhead usually pulls 30-50 thousand, often planetary gears also play back, and they are changed to “ used "or restored. And a good contract unit can sometimes be bought for less than 50 thousand, since this automatic transmission model is very common.
Experienced toyotaists know that these are very reliable boxes, capable of passing 300-400 thousand kilometers without any problems with a timely oil change. So why is there such an emphasis on renovations?
In the photo: Lexus RX 400h "2005-09
On the Lexus RX, the box is very overloaded, especially when paired with a 3.5 liter engine. With runs of less than 200 thousand, cars are regularly encountered, the boxes of which can both kick and hit. And a complete failure, unfortunately, is not such a rarity. In addition, the software of American cars turned out to be sharpened for a very unhurried style of movement.
At the slightest contamination of the mass air flow sensor and the throttle and small fluctuations in the parameters of the lambda sensors, at which the engine still feels great, age-old cars begin to "kick" solely due to control system failures. Kicks on downshifts are quite standard problems, especially when accelerating hard after a steady ride. With normal acceleration from a standstill, the problem is less pronounced and is mainly associated with damage to the automatic transmission itself.
They tried to treat the problem with the new software of the box, and this partially helps. If the "hardware" of the automatic transmission is in order, and the valve body is not dirty, the situation, as a rule, improves. But usually intervention in the motor is also required: cleaning the MAF, checking the condition of the throttle and cleaning it, checking and adapting the TPS. Replacing spark plugs often helps, especially on MZ engines.
The valve body, traditionally for Aisin, is very sensitive to oil contamination and does not like aggressive drivers who erase the blocking lining of the gas turbine engine during intensive acceleration. But he loves an external filter box and a good external radiator with a thermostat.
In terms of the mechanical part, the automatic transmission is quite reliable. First of all, the automatic transmission rear cover caliper and its O-rings are subject to wear. With pressure leaks in this zone, the Ovedrive package suffers, and sometimes Direct. Often the root cause is a breakdown of the needle bearing of the cover, it should be checked immediately if there are shocks when turning on the second and third gears. To check, you do not even need to remove the box, it is enough to slightly lower the power unit on the stretcher.
Operation with dirty oil leads to damage to the pump cover and its sleeve, as well as the oil seal of the gas turbine engine, and to progressive valve body problems.
Unfortunately, with powerful motors there is a risk of damage to the Forward planetary gear (rear). It has a backlash in the axes of the satellites, and in advanced cases it cuts out their teeth, severely damaging the box as a whole.
It is advisable to periodically check and replace the heaviest loaded solenoids to avoid mechanical problems. Basically - line pressure solenoid and SL1 solenoids, and sometimes SL2-SL3.
Machines of the first years of production may not have the most successful modification of the hydraulic plate, and in order to improve the quality of work, it is better to replace it in the assembly with a later version (2005-2009 model year).
The hybrids were equipped with a completely different transmission. It is sometimes called a variator, but it has nothing to do with traditional designs with a belt or chain.
The Synergy Drive uses an electrically coupled differential drive in the low torque branch. Unclear? It is rather difficult to explain on the fingers, but we will try.
Imagine a design of two differentials, one of which divides the power flow into two branches, and the other brings it back together. If we put a gearbox on one of the branches, and make the differentials asymmetrical (so that only a small part of the power is transmitted to the gearbox), then something like Synergy drive will turn out. Only instead of a gearbox there is an electric transmission, and two differentials are made in the form of one complex planetary multi-mode transmission. An electric transmission can completely decouple this drive (in this case, the car will go only on electric traction), work only in generator mode, or completely block the branch using a mechanical lock (all motor power will be transmitted only through the "differentials" by a mechanical link). By varying the "gear ratio" of the generator - electric motor ligament, you can get any gear ratio for this gearbox relative to the internal combustion engine and the output shaft. Hope it became clearer?
If not, don't be discouraged: the design is really extremely complex, multi-mode and unique in its own way. And surprisingly not capricious in work, because there is a minimum of complex hydraulics, the mechanics are very reliable, and the load goes mainly to the electrical part.
Motors
The Lexus RX engine range is not very impressive in scope, but excellent in quality. Before restyling, the cars were equipped with V6 engines of the MZ series with a volume of 3.0 and 3.3 liters, after restyling, the version of this engine remained on hybrids. All these are the 1MZ-FE and 3MZ-FE engines, the old "fighters" of the Toyota school.
After restyling, the engines of the new 2GR-FE series with a volume of 3.5 liters became the basis of the engine range. In general, they have the highest reliability, but there are still some weak points.
Radiator
price for original
45 266 rubles
With regular maintenance, all motors have a chance to change 300-350 thousand kilometers without major repairs, and with some luck, even step over half a million kilometers. And the enemies of these engines are well known to us: poor choice of oils, overheating, dirty filters, malfunctions of power and control systems, transmission failures and aggressive driving.
The common weak point of all Lexus RXs (except for the hybrid version) is the main radiator. Replacing it regularly and checking for leaks is the key to the long life of the motors. The radiator is prone to leaking tanks in the lower part. As many believe, due to the not very successful design and fastenings, the long lower part sags. Non-original nodes often have a greater resource and are less susceptible to the problem, but care must be taken so that they do not turn out to be thinner.
Also, on all motors, the pump resource is below average, so it is worthwhile to "listen" to it regularly. Especially often it fails at 2GR, but on MZ motors this unit is also not perfect, and besides, it is difficult to replace.
In the photo: Lexus RX 350 "2006-09 MZ motors are renowned for their resource, and they are truly "eternal" in passenger cars. But there are some things to remember.
Timing belt 1MZ-FE
price for original
2 403 rubles
Firstly, these motors have a timing belt drive. It is reliable, you just need to remember to change it and not skimp on details. And watch out for oil leaks, which are very dangerous for a timing belt. Unfortunately, there are leaks in older motors. Lids and oil seals often leak, for which it is worth saying "thanks" to the simple crankcase ventilation system.
Another unpleasant feature is the tendency to detonate. Installing the wrong spark plugs, running on 92nd gasoline, contaminating the radiators - all this greatly reduces not only power, but also resource. And you need to very carefully monitor the condition of the knock sensors, which fans of the brand recommend replacing with new ones after ten years of operation.
The design of the cooling system can also deliver a lot of unpleasant minutes. In the collapse of the block, there is a bypass hose of a small circle of the system, which heats up and is prone to leaks. It is difficult to get to it - you need to remove the entire intake. It is also not easy to get close to the thermostat, which, although reliable, does not last forever: you will either need to remove the intake, or seriously disassemble the attachment from the end of the motor. Much more often you will have to change the thermostat gasket, which is also prone to leaks.
In the photo: Under the hood of the Lexus RX 350 "2006–09 Contamination of the throttle and crankcase ventilation system, the gradual "creeping" of its tubes - this is a "disease" of almost all old engines. But for some reason, the wiring of the injectors gradually peeling off is found mainly in the RX. It is also located in the collapse of the block, and any repair turns into a serious test.
The phase shifter valves require regular replacement to prevent unnecessary stress on the timing.
In the photo: Lexus RX 330 "2003-06 The throttle is very tricky here: with mini-chokes that limit the power of a cold motor, and a complex shape. As a result, it becomes dirty more easily than we would like, and it is difficult to rinse it. It will no longer be possible to spray with a carbcliner, you will have to remove and wash it, and the older the motor, the more often.
Otherwise, the motors are quite strong and also extremely inexpensive. Both in repair and in replacement.
Timing chain 2GR-FE
price for original
5 150 rubles
After restyling, two engines were replaced by one, but with a volume of 3.5 liters and a capacity of about 270 hp, which significantly improved the dynamic parameters of the car. There is a chain in the timing drive of this engine, and its control system is noticeably more modern than its predecessors. But there are more difficulties with these motors, despite the more recent year of production, and they themselves are more expensive.
The most dangerous generic problem is the oil line on cars manufactured in 2006-2008. With runs of more than 50 thousand kilometers, the rubber hose in the timing control system was leaking, and the oil consumption in this system was such that the engine lost it completely in about five minutes. Effects - . During the recall campaign, dealers changed the hose, and on later cars, instead of two pipes and a hose, a single pipe was already used. When choosing a car, you should pay attention to this nuance, and if there is a hose, immediately replace it with part 15772-31030.
In the photo: Under the hood Lexus RX 400h "2005–09 The "problem of the fifth cylinder" on this motor even got its own name - "PPTs". In fact, on 2GR-FE this is more of a problem for the first cylinder, and the fifth cylinder dies on 2GR-FSE engines on the next generation of the model. When operating on dusty roads, due to the design of the intake, the penetrating dust begins to kill the first and fifth cylinders. Intake valves die, scuffs appear, the compression ring may collapse. Complicated by all poor circulation of coolant in this area.
The same problem appears when the catalyst "dies", so keep an eye on its condition. When purchasing, it is recommended to carefully inspect the intake manifold and throttle for the presence of sand, and the cylinders will not be damaged by endoscopy. And even a simple measurement of compression can tell a lot about the standing of the motor.
In the photo: Lexus RX 400h "2005-09 After the purchase, it is worth buying only high-quality filters, putting them on silicone grease and monitoring the condition of the catalyst, especially in regions where there are many starts at very low temperatures: they greatly wear out this unit.
Pump 1MZ-FE
price for original
5 152 rubles
The pump resource is sometimes insultingly small: the original can leak with runs up to 50 thousand. Cars from cold regions are especially at risk. In addition, the motor is very sensitive to the fluid level and the quality of the cooling system, so even slight overheating cannot do without consequences.
When operating with low-viscosity SAE30 oil and regular high loads in hot weather, scuffing of the liners is possible. This is especially true for the RX due to the heavy weight of the machine and the associated increased loads. After 200 thousand mileage, it would be nice to remove and clean the crankcase and the front pipe of the oil pump. For severe summer use, it is better to use oils with a viscosity higher than SAE40.
The resource of chains varies widely depending on the style of operation. It is not uncommon for a car with chains that have traveled both more than 250 thousand kilometers and rattling with runs of less than a hundred. True, the noise of the chain at start-up is often confused with the noise from the phase shifter couplings, which are not made in the best way here. This noise is quite harmless, the clutches are strong, but it will be extremely unpleasant for perfectionists. The price of new couplings is quite high, and the noise is guaranteed to manifest itself with a mileage of more than 60 thousand. Despite these small flaws, the motor is quite resourceful and reliable. And even easy to repair.
In the photo: Lexus RX 350 "2006-09 Unfortunately, the tax for engines with a capacity of more than 250 hp is too large, which is unpleasant for rather economical cars in operation. However, if you want a more "fresh" car in general, you have no other options.
conclusions
If you want a practical car, then buy a Toyota. If you need a car with a soul and a pleasant attention to detail - take the Lexus. RX brilliantly confirms this rule.
Nice body, stuffing, motors and boxes. Excellent design and interiors, excellent comfort and quite decent driving characteristics - all this the car has. And even the price doesn't bite.
Among the minuses we will name the cost of fuel, and in the case of cars after restyling - taxes, despite the fact that 270 hp. do not make a racing car out of a crossover. Moreover, the difference in dynamics with cars before restyling and 3.3-liter engines is not noticeable at all.
In the photo: Lexus RX 300 "2003-06 It is worth choosing, as always, a specific instance, since many of these cars were bought by "riders" who did not think about maintenance and generously spent the resource allotted to the car, saving on maintenance.
And don't be tempted by the hybrid version. Yes, in urban operation it is possible to "knock down" the consumption to 10-11 liters per hundred, which is not bad for a large car, but problems with a hybrid will nullify the joy of this savings. It is better then to buy a diesel car from Europe: there will be dynamics, and lower maintenance costs, and controllability. And most importantly, the car will be predictable (if you choose the right one), but what the hybrid will throw up is a difficult question.
One example of this popularity is the Lexus rx300, a Japanese-American handsome man with a memorable appearance, which has come to the taste of residents on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. The debut show of the model took place in 1997, and it entered mass production a year later, in 1998. Initially, only the countries of North America were considered as the main sales market, but already in 2000. the car began to be sold in Europe, and quite successfully.
The main "trump card" explaining such an interest in the model was its original, catchy design. Thanks to this, even today, after a considerable number of years, it looks quite worthy against the background of the new generation of SUVs.
First generation first
"Presentable" handsome man with elegant features
With dimensions: 4580 x 1816 x 1669 mm, the first generation of the car cannot be called miniature, but it also does not look like a "rough brute". Affected by belonging to the luxury class, even if not of the highest level. The body lines are pleasantly soft and smooth, which gives the car an elegant, "expensive" look. The off-road character of the Lexus RX 300 is emphasized by the roof rails, rather powerful bumpers located in the front and rear, as well as a spectacular radiator grill with a nameplate emblazoned on it with the image of the brand name.
On domestic roads, you can most often see the RX 300 of "American" or "Canadian" origin, although "Europeans" are also not so rare among them. At the same time, among the distinctive features that the latter possess, it is worth noting:
- the presence of seventeen-inch wheel disks;
- greater rigidity and strength of their suspension;
- higher cost.
The first generation of the model was produced in several configurations, and the poorest of them, the basic version, included:
- full set of electric drives;
- airbags;
- CD-player;
- leather seat upholstery (American versions), etc.
At the same time, all car systems function smoothly and accurately and do not "glitch". Moreover, this also applies to cars with a fairly decent mileage.
Of the small problems with the outer part, which can "float" during the operation of the car, it is worth noting the decay of the wiring in the turn signals located in the bumpers. As a rule, immigrants from the American continent "sin" with this. You can get rid of this trouble without much effort, and the cost of restoring the turn signals to work will be quite acceptable for the wallet: about $ 30.
Lots of space, lots of gadgets
As for the ergonomics of the cabin, there is nothing to complain about. There is plenty of space, besides, the seats are quite comfortable and comfortable, have electrical adjustments, so that you can perfectly sit on them during the trip. The range of movement of the driver's seat is 17 mm, so it can accommodate people of any height. The information content of the dashboard is high, all devices are located in such a way that they are really very simple and convenient to use. Another positive point: the high quality of sound insulation, which is why the cabin is always quiet and comfortable, there is no engine noise or extraneous sounds.
Some motorists, however, note minor problems with the leather trim, which wipes off a little over time on the folds and sidewalls. But, this is more of a nagging than a categorical remark. In addition, such unpleasant phenomena can be completely avoided by caring for your "iron friend" as it should. And, in general, the interior of the car deserves a strong and solid "five".
"Driving force
The first generation of Lexus RХ 300 was equipped with a single engine version, a 3.0-liter 24-valve 223-horsepower V6 (201-horsepower - in European configuration) with a variable valve timing function, tested and well-proven on other representatives of the Toyota family.
Such a “heart” under the hood makes the car quite spirited and fast, “forcing” it to pick up speed of 100 km / h in 9 seconds. It would seem that the maximum speed should also have a very decent value, but not in this case. The manufacturers decided that too much acceleration of a car of this class could be dangerous for the driver himself and those around him, so they artificially limited its maximum permissible speed to "decent" and "sedate" 180 km / h.
It is especially pleasant that such a car, which has very impressive parameters and power, has a relatively low fuel consumption. According to the owners, slowly moving along the city streets, it "eats" about 13-14 liters. On the highway, this figure fluctuates around the mark: 11-16 liters (this is at a speed of 110 and 160 km / h, respectively).
According to the majority of fans of the model, it simply does not turn out to say something negative and critical about the car engine.
Chassis and gearbox
In addition, the technical equipment of the first generation of the RX 300 included:
- permanent all-wheel drive system, equipped with an interaxle differential, which was locked by means of a viscous coupling.
- "Automatic" with four steps;
- disc brakes, the front of which were ventilated.
As for the car's driving characteristics, they can be "christened" "somewhat specific." Problems arise with its maneuverability when gaining high speed. The car seems to start swimming on the move, nodding when braking (and even replacing the shock absorbers and springs this problem is not solved), but on the "broken" asphalt surface the RХ 300 feels just fine. So, where everyone is "trudging" just barely, being afraid to gain more than 50 km / h, you can ride it with a proud look, having typed at least a hundred.
Among the features encountered by the owners of this stylish and luxurious luxury car is the possibility of burning out the middle part of its muffler, or rather, its corrugated insert.
A mandatory procedure associated with extending the life of a car is replacing its timing belt, which must be done after every hundreds of thousands of kilometers, as well as replacing spark plugs, which sometimes have a feature to fail from time to time on our gasoline. A branded set of candles will cost about $ 90, and a regular one - $ 20-30. The operation to replace the timing belt will "pull" a much larger amount: together with the replacement of rollers and drive belts, it will cost about $ 250-300.
As for the box (recall that the car is equipped only with an “automatic” with four steps), it is also distinguished by its reliability and durability. Some motorists, however, note its "old-fashioned" and "brooding", but for a calm, accurate ride, it is quite suitable.
By the way, using good quality original oil for it will help to avoid problems with the gearbox repair. This way you can significantly extend its life and avoid costly repairs. And, a separate gearbox can be bought at one of the American e-Bay auctions. At the same time, its price will be about $ 1,500 for the option, restored at the factory.
A little tip: when buying a Lexus RX 300, visit the station where you can diagnose its transmission. And do not be afraid if the examination reveals any problems with it, since such cases with "three hundred" are quite common. The bulkhead process will take no more than a few days, after which it will serve for a long time.
Not for dirt, but for comfort
The next key point: the car's suspension. But, even here it is difficult to find any really serious problems and shortcomings that require significant investment. Both the front and rear of the first generation RX 300 have an independent suspension type, with all the complexity of its design, which is distinguished by its reliability and durability. But the price of spare parts and components for this model is also quite tangible. For example, work on installing bushings and stabilizing struts will cost 80-100 dollars, and replacing shock absorber support bearings will cost about 100 green each.
In general, in order to enjoy driving this wonderful car for a long time, it is enough to follow a few simple rules:
- Avoid slipping. Remember that this is not really an SUV, so dirt, clay and other slippery surfaces are not your field of activity!
- Do not tow. Remember that the car was created for completely different purposes.
- Don't try to turn your car into a racing car. You still won't be able to "jerk" from the traffic light and "make" a more powerful and high-speed BMW X5, and you will inflict damage on your "iron horse".
Now about the second generation
Modifications for the better
If you are looking for something more, then you should pay attention to the representatives of the next, second generation of the model, which was released from 2003 to 2009. Thanks to the restyling carried out, the RX 300 has become even more attractive and elegant.
First, it is slightly "larger" than its progenitor. The overall dimensions of the car are: 4740 x 1845 x 1680 mm, with a wheelbase of 2720 mm and a ground clearance of 190 mm.
Secondly, it has retained its best features, which, after a little refinement, have become even more expressive. In the front of the crossover, there are original large-size headlights having a triangular shape, the lower side of which is bordered by the car bumper. The hood of the car has acquired even smoother, streamlined lines. Here is the same trapezoidal false radiator grille, decorated with the brand name.
An additional air duct has appeared in the front bumper, as well as a lower plastic protection. In addition, unpainted "off-road" plastic elements are located on the rear bumper and boxes of the car. Large doors, massive wheel arches and a powerful C-pillar, together with inflated fenders and high-mounted optics, add to its impressiveness and extravagance, creating a one-piece, monumental structure with a "sporty overtones".
The rear window looks very original, which has received a greater inclination in comparison with the first generation of the model, as well as its taillights, which, thanks to the presence of LED elements, look unusually attractive in the evening. And, of course, describing the many advantages of this luxurious "handsome", one cannot fail to note its aerodynamic qualities, with a value of 0.33 Cx, which are the best in their class.
Essential components of comfort, and more
Even in the most "modest", basic version (the price of which is about 54,900 dollars), the second generation RX 300 has really rich equipment. This includes:
- leather upholstery of the seats of the passenger compartment;
- dual-zone climate control function;
- stabilization system;
- xenon, etc.
Fully justifying its belonging to the "luxury" category, the interior decoration of the RХ 300 is distinguished by good taste and sophistication. Creativity and originality of the top panel of the car is given by two vertical elements painted "aluminum". In addition, there is also a traditional wood trim, although in this case it plays rather a secondary character, and on the steering wheel rim, in general, it looks a little out of place. However, this is more nitpicking than a specific remark.
The design of wells, “recessed” into the surface, with devices placed in them, equipped with special illumination, which lights up when the ignition is turned on, reminds of the “sporty” character of the car. The quality of the plastic is very decent, and all the elements perfectly match each other in color and texture. In a word, great performance that is worth the money. Note that all of the above is the real opinions of the owners of this car.
In principle, reviews of the second generation Lexus rx300 are mostly enthusiastic and satisfied, but motorists also note the presence of small flaws that this "Mister Perfection" still has. For example, some of them indicate an insufficient amount of free space in the rear seats, so that when trying to "stretch your legs" a tall person may experience some problems, as well as the presence of squeaks in the cabin.
Another "but" is the lack of interior sound insulation. Besides, the lack of an MP3 player can be called a small drawback of the basic version of 2005. But, this is not essential.
Naturally, because a car of this class, price and category simply has to be quite attractive and comfortable. Much more important is something else: what is inside him.
For leisurely trips
As for the technical equipment of the restyled version, under its hood, the manufacturers have left the former, transversely located "six", working in tandem with the "automatic". The latter, however, acquired one more step - the fifth. The all-wheel drive system, equipped with an center differential, a rack-and-pinion steering wheel and independent-type candle suspensions, remained in place.
And one of the undoubted advantages of a car (which, by the way, was noted by most of its owners) is its excellent driving performance. He reacts with equal calmness to small dents in the asphalt and obstacles like tram tracks, etc., passing them unusually gently and smoothly. However, more serious potholes and pits can cause considerable damage to its suspension, so it's better not to “test it for strength”.
Some motorists note a somewhat quick wear of the brake pads of a car, but, rather, it depends on the personal nature of the ride and the peculiarities of its operation. The cost of the work is about 4 thousand rubles.
In addition, like the representatives of the first generation, the RХ 300 2 has a feature related to the maneuverability of the car when picking up high speeds. On a road with ruts, it loses a little stability, so in this situation, sharp acceleration and overtaking can end in failure. Still, setting "speed records" is not for him.
Other, possible "weak points" of the second generation are also worth noting:
- frequent occurrence of a leak in the gearbox, eliminated by removing the engine and auto gearbox.
- perspiration of the power steering tube;
- failure of the air suspension, fraught with the replacement of all its struts.
We can say that most of the financial costs are associated with the replacement of failed consumables. As for the serious units and components of the car, they serve almost flawlessly, without reminding themselves unless absolutely necessary.
Of course, the Lexus RX 300 cannot be called “cheap” in terms of handling, but you didn’t expect this from a car of this class and level? Agree, a car capable of delivering real pleasure not only to its passengers, but also to the person who drives it, is worth it, isn't it?
On the Russian market, these are modifications with a 2.7-liter gasoline engine. Already in itself the concept of "premium crossover" is somehow doubtfully linked to the atmospheric "four". Not only is this engine frankly lacking for a two-ton car - the driver has to constantly “twist” it in order to achieve proper acceleration, but the image also suffers. Imagine when, at a party or some other get-together, the owner of the RX 270 is inadvertently asked which engine is under the hood of his pet - an awkward situation in this case cannot be avoided.
In addition, the 2.7-liter version comes exclusively with front-wheel drive. And this is already nonsense - a large crossover with a four-cylinder engine and a drive on one axle. All the absurdity of the situation is given in a short quote from a review of the Lexus RX: “Why the idea to change the car arises, so it is for the lack of all-wheel drive. It is still normal in the summer. But the heavy RX is buried even in the yard, where guest workers-wipers easily pass by on bicycles. Really, it becomes embarrassing for himself and for the car. And when starting up a hill, the front-wheel drive Lexus barely crawls, sullenly chirping with the traction control system. While the domestic classics bypasses me as a stand-up. It can be a shame, it’s beyond words. ”
The other extreme is a crossover, the power plant of which consists of a 3.5-liter gasoline V6 (249 hp) and two electric motors with a total capacity of 50 forces, one of which rotates the rear wheels. With the number of leading axes in this modification, everything seems to be fine. However, in some situations, the electric Lexus RX behaves unpredictably due to the uneven distribution of thrust between the axles. After all, the rear wheels are driven by only one 25-horsepower servo motor. Therefore, the behavior of the electric crossover on the road is not much different from the mono-drive version of the RX. Moreover, in emergency cases, the control of the car becomes even more unpredictable due to the increased moment on the front axle, which is also twisted by the electric one. But that's not all. Such a "Lexus" is unreasonably expensive - for an eight-year copy they ask for almost one and a half million. For this money, you can buy a new German or Japanese crossover, albeit a lower class.
It turns out that the best option is a crossover with a 3.5-liter V6 equipped with a 4x4 transmission, where an electronically controlled clutch connects the rear wheels when the front wheels slip. But here, too, not everything is so simple. With driving performance and handling it seems to be all right. However, on the market, this version is slightly cheaper than the hybrid Lexus, but at the same time it has a rather high gas mileage. There is one more point regarding all RX modifications.
Clients counting on comfort for cars of this segment complain about the abundance in the cabin, which, in general, applies to other modifications of the crossover. Particularly annoying "insect colony" becomes in winter. Moreover, their habitat extends along the entire perimeter of the cabin - from the interior door trim and dashboard to the luggage rack and even the steering column. Truly a real "insect disco" from the Orthoptera squadron. Dealers not only know about this problem, but also offer their services for the installation of additional sound insulation. The list of services is extensive: from the trivial protection of wheel arches for 15,000-20,000 rubles to a full package of Shumka for almost a hundred square meters.
Surprisingly, the fact is that a large crossover turned out to be inconvenient for people more than 190 cm tall. Even with the seat down to the end, they have to sit behind the wheel, literally resting their head on the ceiling. There are no such problems on pedigree German classmates at all.
It is also worth mentioning that the trim used in the chairs leaves a lot to be desired. It is not only easily damaged by any hard or sharp object, but also wears out quickly. So don't be surprised if the leather seats look like on a 15-year-old car on a fairly fresh RX. Again, this is by no means comme il faut.
What, then, is the strength of the Japanese crossover? Fans of the brand and model will surely say v. Well, let's check it out.
Lexus RX really has no special problems with engines. In the drive of the gas distribution mechanism of both motors, a strong chain with a proprietary VVT-i phase adjustment system is used. The valves are adjusted by selecting washers every 40,000 km, but in reality this operation is required three times less often. After "weaving" on the engines, you should change the drive belt along with the rollers and tensioner. At the same time, it is useful to check the condition of the crankshaft pulley damper (from 26,500 rubles) - by this time it usually wears out. By 150,000 km the time will come to change the clutches of the VVT-i system (there are two of them in the “four”, and four in the V6) at 18,500 rubles each and individual ignition coils (2,600 rubles each).
A 6-speed automatic transmission Aisin U660E is combined with the motors. The automatic transmission is quite reliable, but its service life directly depends on the driving style. Already by the "hundred" of thousands of kilometers, the clutches are worn out and, as a result, the channels of the "automatic" valve body are clogged with wear products. Repair pulls at least 120,000 rubles. Therefore, it is advisable to change the gear oil in the box more often - better every 60,000 km.
