Last updated: 2026-10-10

Lexus NX

Lexus NX Years to Avoid

9 scored model years (2018–2026) · model average 79/100

No Lexus NX year falls far enough below the rest to be one to avoid. Ratings vary only a little between years, while recall counts and complaint volume swing more, and 2024 draws the most complaints. For most shoppers, 2021 is the year to buy.

Verdict

Avoid
No outlier years
Buy
2021 82/100
Model average
79/100
See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

What Are Common Lexus NX Problems?

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

27 complaints

Most reported in 2024, 2019, 2023

2024: The driver's door unlocks or reads as open at highway speed.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

20 complaints

Most reported in 2024, 2018, 2023

2024: The 12V battery dies and leaves the car unable to start.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

18 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2020, 2018

2019: Hesitation from a full stop is the most common symptom.

FUEL SYSTEM

12 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2018

2019: Parts shortages for a recall repair make up most of these complaints.

SERVICE BRAKES

11 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2022

2018: The car accelerates suddenly at low speed and the brakes fail to stop it.

STRUCTURE

9 complaints

Most reported in 2024, 2025, 2023

2024: The sunroof shatters without warning.

Best Lexus NX Year to Buy Instead

82
ExcellentReliability score: 82 out of 100, rated Excellent

2021 Lexus NX

2021 has an excellent reliability standing and no recalls, and it has been on the road long enough for its record to mean something. The 2022 through 2024 years carry 10 to 14 recalls each, and 2024 has far more complaints, including 8 fire reports. 2021's complaints are modest by comparison.

Score: 82/100 (Excellent)0 recalls30 complaints
View full 2021reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the 2021 Lexus NX has 0 recalls on file. A VIN check confirms the recall work on the exact car and shows its accident, title, and service history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All Lexus NX Years by Generation

Lexus NX Reliability Scores by Year

Excellent Good Mixed Risky

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Lexus NX years should I avoid?
None falls well below the model's own average. Every tracked year rates good or excellent. The one worth extra scrutiny is 2024, which has the most owner complaints, 14 recalls, and 8 fire reports. If you want the safest pick, choose 2021.
Is the 2024 Lexus NX a bad year?
It is not flagged as one to avoid, and it still rates good. It does stand apart on complaint volume: 129 complaints, or 17.3 per 10,000 sold, mostly electrical. Check recall completion and electrical history on any 2024 you consider.
Why are the 2022 and 2025 Lexus NX the lowest rated years?
Both still rate good, so the gap is small. 2022 has 13 recalls, and 2025 has 7. The 2025 year has only 13 complaints, partly because it has had less time on the road. The data does not show a single defect behind either ranking.
Is the 2026 Lexus NX the most reliable year?
No. It rates excellent with no recalls and no complaints, but that mostly reflects how little time it has been on the road. Complaints and recalls build up over years. Do not treat 2026 as proven. 2021 has a longer record behind it.
Does the 2021 Lexus NX have any recalls or fire reports?
It has no recalls in federal recall records. It does have 2 fire reports. In one, the engine compartment burned within minutes, the car was a total loss, and the manufacturer found no cause. 2020 also has 2 fire reports, while 2024 has 8.

How we score every Lexus NX model year

Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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