Last updated: 2026-03-04
Lexus RX Reliability by Year
The Lexus RX averages 85/100 across 8 model years, rated excellent.
Lexus RX Reliability Overview
The Lexus RX, covering model years 2018 to 2026, has an average reliability score of 85/100, indicating an excellent reliability reputation according to Auto Reliability Index standards. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the electrical system, sunroof glass, and brake actuators, with varying complaint rates peaking in 2021 at 18.1 per 10,000 sold. This model is best suited for buyers prioritizing safety and reliability, although they should be aware of specific recurring issues such as electrical failures and sunroof malfunctions.
Current generation: 5th gen (2023–2023).
Best & Worst Lexus RX Years
Best Lexus RX Years to Buy
The best Lexus RX year is 2022 with a reliability score of 90/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2021 (86/100) and 2020 (86/100).
Lexus RX Years to Avoid
No Lexus RX years are statistical outliers in our data — all years score consistently.
See full Lexus RX years-to-avoid analysis →Lexus RX Reliability Score Trend
Lexus RX reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 85/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 85/100 | Excellent |
| 2019 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2020 | 86/100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 86/100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 90/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 85/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 85/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 83/100 | Excellent |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2026 Lexus RX
1 recalls · 0 complaints
The 2026 Lexus RX has excellent reliability.
2025 Lexus RX
5 recalls · 9 complaints
The 2025 Lexus RX has excellent reliability.
2024 Lexus RX
9 recalls · 48 complaints
The 2024 Lexus RX has excellent reliability.
2023 Lexus RX
5 recalls · 45 complaints
The 2023 Lexus RX has excellent reliability.
2022 Lexus RX
0 recalls · 35 complaints
The 2022 Lexus RX has excellent reliability.
2021 Lexus RX
5 recalls · 209 complaints
The 2021 Lexus RX has excellent reliability.
2020 Lexus RX
5 recalls · 130 complaints
The 2020 Lexus RX has excellent reliability.
2019 Lexus RX
9 recalls · 166 complaints
The 2019 Lexus RX has excellent reliability.
2018 Lexus RX
3 recalls · 87 complaints
The 2018 Lexus RX has excellent reliability.
Lexus RX Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
5/5
Lexus RX Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Lexus Models
Compare all Lexus models by reliability
Compare Lexus RX With Similar SUVs
The Lexus RX competes with other midsize suvs such as Acura MDX, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Toyota Venza.
Acura MDX reliability
8 years tracked · 692 complaints
Mercedes-Benz GLC reliability
8 years tracked · 543 complaints
Toyota Venza reliability
4 years tracked · 9 complaints
BMW X3 reliability
8 years tracked · 434 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Lexus RX reliable?
- Yes, the Lexus RX is considered reliable with an average score of 85/100, rated excellent. Most model years show consistent reliability with below-average problem rates.
- What is the best year for the Lexus RX?
- The best year for the Lexus RX is 2022 with a reliability score of 90/100, rated excellent. It has 0 recalls and 35 owner complaints on record. See full 2022 Lexus RX analysis →
- What are the Lexus RX years to avoid?
- No Lexus RX years in our database are statistical outliers — all tracked model years score consistently within the model average. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Lexus RX?
- Annual maintenance cost estimates are not available for the Lexus RX. Based on its reliability score and complaint patterns, check individual year pages for repair cost details when available.
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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