Is the 2001 Lexus RX reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 2001 Lexus RX?

The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 74% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2001 Lexus RX have?

No recalls are on file for this model year.

2001 Lexus RX

○ Not enough data

2001 Lexus RX
RENDERED 2026-11-01T16:54:02.472Z

Only 19 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Only 19 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 19
Recalls: 0
Investigations: 0
Top problem: —

Complaints per year

2001: 19 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1999	35
2000	29
2001	19
2002	12
2003	4
2004	40
2005	27
2006	32
2007	58
2008	70
2009	34
2010	77
2011	29
2012	12
2013	18
2014	12
2015	20
2016	28
2017	47
2018	26
2019	34
2020	48
2021	70
2022	29
2023	60
2024	60
2025	23
2026	10

Known problem areas

Only 19 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Power train

14 of 19 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission and transfer case (4-wheel drive).

Show complaint excerpts

I bought a car from a private party/dealer only to find out that repairs needed are more than cars worth, then I checked car fax to find out that mileage had been turned back a lot..

NHTSA ODI report, 2020-01-06

Also filed under Wheels

Transmission failed at a low milage, and the repair cost is more than a car.

NHTSA ODI report, 2013-07-31

I was just getting off the highway and my car stopped moving. My transmission totally went out with no warning. If this would have happened moments sooner I could have been in a terrible accident as I was going 60 MPH.

NHTSA ODI report, 2013-05-08

Also filed under Engine

Tires

3 of 19 total reports mention: tires.

Wheels

1 of 19 total reports mentions: wheels.

Vehicle speed control

1 of 19 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.

Lane departure

1 of 19 total reports mentions: lane departure, most commonly citing blind spot detection.

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

on [XXX] traveling NB on [XXX] during a green light to make a left turn WB on [XXX] the defendant ran a red light and broadsided my 2001 RX300 Lexus and was cited. The airbags did not go off, and my head hit the windshield.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-04-22

Also filed under Air bags and forward collision avoidance

Safety timeline

No recalls on file for this model year.

0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

Buy-smart checklist

2001 Lexus RX — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Power train: 14 reports on file for this year.
Tires: 3 reports on file for this year.
Wheels: 1 report on file for this year.

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years3 years

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 2001 Lexus RX reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2001 Lexus RX?: The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 74% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2001 Lexus RX have?: No recalls are on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.