Last updated: 2026-03-04
2023 Lexus NX Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2023 Lexus NX scores 77/100 ("Good"). With 10 recalls and 27 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2023 is the last model year of the Second generation (AZ20; 2021).
Recalls
10
Complaints
27
Complaint Rate
3.6
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$551
Major Repair Risk
N/A
NHTSA Rating
N/A
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
10 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is the last model year of the Second generation (AZ20; 2021).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 2nd generation NX (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
Second generation (AZ20; 2021)
Should You Buy the 2023 Lexus NX?
The 2023 Lexus NX scores 77/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2023 is the last model year of the Second generation (AZ20; 2021).
With 27 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to unknown or other (6). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2024 Lexus NX, which scored the same. See also the 2022 Lexus NX for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Below-average complaint rate for SUV
- Well-established generation
- Only 27 complaints reported
Cons
- Above-average recall count
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Two primary issues with the 2023 Lexus NX in the unknown or other category (3 complaints)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Starting failures and electrical malfunctions (2 complaints)
Compare 2023 Lexus NX With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 10 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)
- STRUCTURE (2)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)
- SERVICE BRAKES (1)
- AIR BAGS (1)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1)
- LANE DEPARTURE (1)
Recall Overview
10
recalls on record
The 2023 Lexus NX has 10 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
3.6
per 10k soldSegment avg: 12.7
Safety Incidents
Crashes
2
Fires
0
Injuries
2
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 Lexus NX Recall Details
10 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Lexus NX. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the parking assist software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB13 and 25LB06. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE25.
STEERING, AIR BAGS
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, Lexus RX350, 2023-2024 NX250, and NX350 vehicles that may have been incorrectly repaired under previous NHTSA recall number 23V-480. An electrical connection inside the steering column's spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
A deactivated driver's air bag will not deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2025. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 25TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 25LA02.
STEERING, AIR BAGS
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, 2023 Lexus RX350, RX350 Hybrid, RX500 Hybrid, 2023-2024 Lexus NX250, NX350, and NX350 Hybrid vehicles. An electrical connection inside the steering column's spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
A deactivated driver's air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TA08. Lexus' number for this recall is 23LA02.
2023 Lexus NX NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Safety Technologies
Lexus NX Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$551
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2023 Lexus NX Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Air Bag Clockspring Replacement | $1,037 – $1,094 |
| Air Conditioning Refrigerant Recover | $61 – $90 |
| Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing | $153 – $224 |
| Air Conditioning System Leak Inspection | $153 – $224 |
| Transmission Position Sensor Replacement | $322 – $386 |
| Headlight Bulb Replacement | $289 – $317 |
| Body Control System Diagnosis & Testing | $61 – $90 |
| Fuel Evaporative Canister Replacement | $707 – $771 |
| Horn Replacement | $395 – $509 |
| Intercooler Replacement | $1,069 – $1,368 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
When Buying a Used 2023 Lexus NX
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect sunroof for signs of stress or damage
- Test all electrical systems after washing the vehicle
- Verify proper operation of the auto start-stop feature
- Check for any abnormal noises from the headliner or sunroof area
- Ensure smooth shifting from Neutral to Drive after car wash
- Test remote start and locking system for unexpected behavior
- Confirm proper function of blind spot monitoring system
Check Any 2023 Lexus NX's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2023 NX in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Lexus NX with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2023 Lexus NX Common Problems by Component
27 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsOwners report two primary issues with the 2023 Lexus NX in the unknown or other category. The first involves sunroof glass explosions, with two complaints describing the sunroof shattering spontaneously while driving, without any apparent impact or extreme temperature changes, typically occurring around 22,500 miles. The second issue involves the vehicle's remote start and locking system, where an owner describes the car locking itself with a child inside after the alarm was triggered, despite the key being left inside, leading to emergency intervention. These reports highlight potential safety concerns related to unexpected glass breakage and the risk of accidental lock-ins, which could be crucial for potential buyers to consider.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2023 Lexus NX's electrical system, primarily involving starting failures and electrical malfunctions. Complaints frequently mention that the vehicle fails to start or experiences electrical problems after water enters the hood area, particularly during routine washing. Additionally, one owner describes being trapped inside the car due to a battery-related malfunction, which poses a safety risk in high temperatures. These issues have been observed in vehicles with over 25,000 miles, and the temporary fixes provided by dealerships, such as adding foam trim, may not be permanent. Potential buyers should be aware of these electrical concerns and the implications for both vehicle operation and personal safety.
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2023 Lexus NX related to the vehicle's structure, specifically involving the wiper blade and headliner. Complaints frequently mention that the driver's side front wiper blade can lift off the glass during automatic car washes, requiring manual adjustment to lower it back into place. Additionally, multiple owners describe a persistent vibration or buzzing noise emanating from the headliner or sunroof area, particularly noticeable on uneven roads. Technicians have identified an improperly secured section near the front dome lights as a potential source of the rattle, yet the noise continues after inspection. These issues are noted without specific mileage ranges, and no safety implications such as crashes or loss of control have been reported.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaintThe automatic headlights have a significant delay before turning on when entering a dimly lit parking garage. I have adjusted various car customization settings, but the delay persists. On February 25, 2025, a maintenance technician at Jim Hudson Lexus in Columbia, SC, inspected the issue and confirmed that the headlight sensor is set to the highest sensitivity. The headlights typically take about 15 seconds to activate. Count 15 seconds that is a long time.
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintI drive an NX250 and recently took it to a conveyor-style car wash, where you position your front tire in a groove, shift into Neutral, and let the system move the car through. Upon exiting, I experienced an issue where I couldn’t shift directly from Neutral to Drive. Instead, I had to first shift into Park before I could engage Drive. This was especially concerning because I was worried that the car behind me might not have enough time to stop, potentially leading to a rear-end collision. Difficulty shifting from Neutral to Drive after a car wash is a common complaint, especially with newer vehicles that have electronic shifters or safety mechanisms in place.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 Lexus NX450H. The contact stated while pulling into a parking space, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated. The contact stated that the vehicle was several inches away from crashing into another vehicle before the contact was able to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 11,000.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintMy concern is regarding the auto start-stop feature. It is a concern since the feature is tied to both the brakes and engine, and it could lead to other/bigger issues. When stepping on the brakes to come to a stop, sometimes the auto start-stop feature turns on. Upon releasing the brakes, there is a loud grinding noise. I brought it to the dealer twice for this issue. The first time a master technician got in the car with me, he drove it and he was able to reproduce the sound continuously, at least 10 times. I left my car with them for a week and was told they were never able to reproduce the noise again. I brought my car home and drove it for 5 days and then it started making the noise again. I took it back to the dealership and they kept it for another 5 days. I was told again they were not able to reproduce the noise. There have been no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem. As background, I purchased my car in April of 2023. The noise started in January of 2024, with less than 6800 miles on it. It happened off and on and it took a few weeks for me to realize the noise was tied to the start-stop feature. Once it became more prevalent, that is when I finally called the dealership to explain the issue and got an appointment to take my car in on 2/19/2024. I currently don't have videos to attach but can follow up with videos in the future if needed.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedAirbags failed to deploy during a crash where lexus was hit on driver's side. We got an alert that they malfunctioned. During inspection, the wire for the airbags was pulled which would indicate deployment. Car was totaled.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 Lexus NX350. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed with the Adaptive Cruise Control feature activated, the vehicle came to an abrupt stop while driving by a road with vehicles parked next to the curb. The contact stated that there were no vehicles in front of the vehicle. The contact stated that the Forward Collision Avoidance message was illuminated when the vehicle came to a complete stop. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.
LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)
LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaintThe blind spot never works its been in dealership for 3 times, every time they say issue was fixed but it comes back, Regular issue, keeps happening sometimes the blindspot monitor keeps turned on even if there was no car behind me, which make me difficult to switch lanes, sometimes it pushes me back to lane even if there was no car, almost ended up into car. Very serious technical glitch Almost missed a major accident on freeway
When Do 2023 Lexus NX Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Lexus NX Years
Best Lexus NX Years to Buy
The best Lexus NX year is 2021 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2020 (82/100) and 2018 (79/100).
Lexus NX Years to Avoid
No Lexus NX years are statistical outliers in our data — all years score consistently.
See full Lexus NX years-to-avoid analysis →Lexus NX Reliability Score Trend
Lexus NX reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 78/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 77/100 | Good |
Lexus NX Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Lexus NX reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Lexus NX?
How many recalls does the 2023 Lexus NX have?
Is the 2023 Lexus NX expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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