In general, I really enjoy working on any Lexus I can get my hands on. They’re well-built vehicles, and finding parts isn’t all that difficult.
That said, I want to share the common problems I see with the 2008 Lexus RX 350, what they mean for you, and how to handle them.
Common Problems
1. Oil Issues
Oil problems are among the most significant issues reported by 2008 Lexus RX 350 owners. Here are the main concerns:
- Oil Leaks: Many drivers have noticed oil leaking while driving. This can be due to burst oil hoses or other issues. If oil leaks while you’re on the road, it can lead to serious engine damage and even pose a fire risk.
- Sludge Formation: Around 75,000 miles, the engine oil can turn into a sludge-like substance. This sludge can block oil passages and lead to severe engine problems. Cleaning out engine sludge can cost up to $700.
2. Engine Problems
- Stalling: Owners have reported stalling, especially in colder weather. Most of the time, it’s an electrical issue.
- Cooling Issues: Problems with engine cooling systems often stem from oil issues (which I explained above). Note: repairs for this sort of thing are usually very expensive due to the labor involved to diagnose the issue.
- Lurching: Some owners have reported that their vehicle lurches when they accelerate from a stop. This is almost always a transmission issue, but it can be engine related as well. For example, a misfire would cause this.
3. Exterior Lighting
- Dull or Weak Lights: Many owners have experienced problems with weak headlights and backup lights. Repairs for lighting issues can be expensive if the core of the problem is related to the electrical system (which it usually is). See below…
4. Air-conditioning glitches
- Compressor failure: While A/C issues are usually minor, it can lead to engine stalling if the compressor fails. Pro tip: have your air-conditioning system checked regularly.
5. Interior durability
- Cracked Dashboards: Cracks often appear around gauges and other sections of the dashboard after about 100,000 miles. While this may not affect the vehicle’s functionality, it can look really. Replacing a dashboard can cost upwards of $2,000, although not all cracks require full replacement.
Is the 2008 Lexus RX 350 Reliable?
While I don’t consider it to be the least reliable vehicle on the market, it does have a significant number of issues that would prevent me from recommending it to buyers in search of a luxurious midsize SUV.
Owners have reported problems well before reaching 100,000 miles, which is concerning for a high-end brand such as Lexus. If you’re thinking about purchasing one, I recommend looking for models made after 2010, as these have fewer complaints.
How Long Will It Last?
The 2008 Lexus RX 350 will typically last up to 200,000 miles, but many serious problems can arise between 75,000 and 100,000 miles. It’s not uncommon for owners to face expensive repairs before the vehicle reaches its expected lifespan. Therefore, if you own one, it’s very important to stay on top of maintenance and be prepared for potential issues.
Recalls
The 2006-2008 models had over 10 recalls, which leads me to believe that Lexus was quite aware of the various issues:
- Valve Springs: Some 2008 models had degrading valve springs that could lead to engine failure. (Campaign number: 10V309000)
- Wiper Arms: Insufficiently torqued nuts on the wiper arms could cause them to malfunction, leading to poor visibility during rain or snow. (Campaign number: 13V030000)
- Loose Bolts: Loose bolts in the Variable-Valve Timing (VVT) system could cause separation in the housing and sprockets, leading to engine stalling. (Campaign number: 13V395000)
- Fuel Leaks: Some models had issues with fuel leakage due to anti-corrosion platings, which can increase the risk of fire. (Campaign number: 14V647000)
- Airbag Issues: Faulty airbag inflators could pose serious safety risks for drivers and passengers. (Campaign number: 6V340000)
- More Fuel Leaks: Another recall involved the diaphragm of the pulsation dampers, which could harden and crack, leading to fuel leaks. (Campaign number: 18V4320000)
Conclusion
If I’m being honest, I would advise against buying an RX 350 of this generation. It’s getting more and more difficult to find one that’s clean and well-maintained (with low miles), and there are so many other / better choices on the market.
Did you read my overview of Toyota Highlander problems? If not, you should. By doing so, you’ll realize that maybe a Toyota is a better choice than a Lexus…
