2009 Lexus RX
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
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 | 76 |
| 2011 | 29 |
| 2012 | 12 |
| 2013 | 18 |
| 2014 | 11 |
| 2015 | 20 |
| 2016 | 28 |
| 2017 | 47 |
| 2018 | 25 |
| 2019 | 34 |
| 2020 | 46 |
| 2021 | 69 |
| 2022 | 28 |
| 2023 | 59 |
| 2024 | 55 |
| 2025 | 18 |
| 2026 | 6 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
26% of complaints: engine — 9 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Oil line ruptured spilling causing loss of most engine oil on road and potentially ruining engine. Vehicle currently is at Toyota dealership being rep[aired so is available for inspection. Oil on road of course a safety hazard.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230925
NOTICED HUGE PUDDLE OF OIL UNDER CAR AFTER PARKING IN DRIVEWAY. HAD CAR TOWED TO LEXUS DEALER. FOUND OIL COOLER RUBBER HOSE RUPTURED. REPLACEMENT LINE IS NOW CONSTRUCTED OF METAL.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190911
15% of complaints: steering — 5 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
MY 2009 LEXUS RX350 HAS 84000 MILES ON IT AND I HAVE JUST FOUND OUT THAT THE RACK AND PINION IS LEAKING OIL. THE CAR HAS BEEN WELL TAKEN CARE OF AND CAREFULLY DRIVEN SINCE IT WAS BOUGHT BRAND NEW SO IT IS A SURPRISE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190928
9% of complaints: air bags — 3 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 LEXUS RX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, SHE UNEXPECTEDLY SWERVED OFF THE ROAD AND CRASHED INTO A GUARD RAIL.
NHTSA ODI report, 20140604
9% of complaints: electrical system — 3 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing speedometer/odometer.
Show complaint excerpts
THE TRUNK LATCH RUBBER BOOT MELTED. POSSIBLE ELECTRICAL ISSUE. THE RUBBER FEELS LIKE SOFT TAR & LEAVES MARKS THAT ARE QUITE DIFFICULT TO WASH OFF. CAR LOCATION IS NOT ONE OF THE HOTTER STATES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190913
6% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 2 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
THE CAR LURCHES FORWARD WITH GREAT UNINTENDED ACCELERATION. *TR
NHTSA ODI report, 20140403
Also filed under FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 LEXUS RX. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, PROCEEDING TO TURN AT AN INTERSECTION. THERE WAS PRESSURE APPLIED TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, FOLLOWED BY NO POWER RESPONSE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20100127
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2009 Lexus RX — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (9 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (3 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2009 Lexus RX reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2009 Lexus RX is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2009 Lexus RX?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 26% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2009 Lexus RX have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.