Used 2000 Lexus RX 300 Consumer Reviews
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drove it for 17 years before it died!
Bought it new in May '99. Since then have put 213,000 miles on it. Have had a few repairs along the way. At 66K miles, I replaced the battery, otherwise the first major service (besides routine) was at 72K miles; a check engine light required a $170 meter. Had all the struts replaced at 96K miles. I switched to synthetic oil at 97K miles. At 100K, the engine dying while trying to start required a $270 IAC valve and a $265 something called "Assy, Idle Spe." At 123K, needed new rear brakes. At 135K miles, spent $900, because it needed a new timing belt, all (3) engine drive belts, water pump and 3 light bulb (some of the bulbs can be replaced by anyone and a few are hard to access). At 141K, had to replace the air fuel sensor replace battery at that time also). At 147K, a passenger side CV joint was noted to be damaged. At 166K, the right front door lock actuator was replaced. At 180K, another 90K service was done and in addition an exhaust system gasket leak was repaired, a transmission pan gasket was leaking and replaced, and the power steering rack & pinion unit was leaking and was replaced (I spent over $2,000 dollars that day). Again at 200K, a front right inner CV boot and the transmission pan gasket were leaking (these were fixed, both front CV boots were replaced). Replaced the air-fuel sensor again at 201K miles. The high beams became inoperative requiring a surprising amount of diagnostic work-up; in the end it was just a bulb that was out. At some point, the radio antenna gear strip broke (antenna would not lower), but I found out how to repair that myself from the internet and it only cost about $25. Finally, about a week ago I ended up paying for a $1400 repair because the ignition switch locked up (requiring a ride back to civilization aboard a flat-bed wrecker). I would say the majority of my service is just tire rotations and oil changes. Every once and a while a sensor goes out (especially the air-fuel sensor), A few gasket and CV leaks (but despite ruptured CV covers, the CV joints were fine). If you were to see the vehicle, it appears new inside and out. I still like it. For a sports utility vehicle, it is very quiet, smooth, handles well, has lots of storage and more than enough power. At over 250k miles, the transmission failed and I donated the vehicle.
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185,000 Miles with ZERO Problems
My lexus has over 185,000 miles on it and is still running great! We have had no major repairs besides maintenance, I would highly recommend this car
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,95076 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,99977 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,888127 mi away
The good, bad and ugly
2000 AWD, purchased used in 2011 w 110K. The good-smooth drivetrain, ride, reasonably comfortable seats. Only replaced 1 O2 sensor in first 40K miles. The bad-$$$ to fix: $1200 for timing belt/H2O pump. At 152K, knock sensor and sub harness, air fuel ratio sensor, valve cover gaskets: $2100. At 156K, front 2 catalysts: $900. The ugly: TERRIBLE MPG: Avg 16-17 around town, rarely more than 20 all highway. The big culprit seems to be the gearing - very short geared - about 2900 RPM at 70MPH. Extra weight for AWD does not help, nor do the side mirrors, the size of small flat screen TVs. No compass. Radio and HVAC controls look the same. Too expensive to own-would not buy another.
Love the car, hate the transmission!!!
I purchased this car with 130,000 mi. on it. The car still drives like a new car, minor wear on front leather driver seat & basically still looks new. I was aware of the transmission troubles with this model, but hoped it wouldn't happen to me, but it did! At around 160,000 mi., it went. I had a transmission put in & I am now at 180,000 mi. I drive around 100 miles daily, so it is a work horse for sure! I will be satisfied if it will take me to 300,000 with no major issues. I will then feel that I got my money's worth!
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Good vehicle
We have owned this vehicle for a few years but after it got to 150,000 things started breaking. The major problems I have experienced is replacing the knock sensors, and the check engine light will not go out. There are to many sensors on this vehicle so your check engine light will come back on once you have fixed the problem. other then that it is a nice vehicle to own. The ride is smooth it is quiet and the straight road handling is great. The worst steering problem is that you can not make tight turns. By Gregory J. Strzelecki
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rx300
I only service my RX300 at this dealership based on their reliability and quality of work. In addition the personnel have been gracious and professional over the 10 yrs of ownership As an RN I know from experience the importance of qualities such as these in providing reliability and confidence as well as a level of luxury. I have driven this vehicle in treacherous driving conditions, including weather and traffic situations and marveled at the performance. Urban conditions are also more manageable because of the improved visibility from the drivers seat. Great Vehicle, Lexus!
Great car
This is a great little car. It handles the road well and is very comfortable. The only problem I have with it is the terrible turning radius and the small gas tank has to be filled up often twice a week.
My RX 300 Rocks!
We bought this used in California on vacation and shipped it to Indiana. Very fun to drive. And we can't believe it's almost 8 years old. Just got timing belt, water pump and serpentine belt changed at 97,000 miles. It drives like a new car and is good for another 100k! We plan on driving this for a very long time. We've been through two snowy winters and it drives great. Its styling still looks pretty modern and I like it a lot better than the 330. It's got no blind spots. One thing to note, check Toyota dealerships for major maintenance work...found to be a lot cheaper than Lexus dealers!
A decent utility car
This car had a transmission problem at 94,000 miles that caused me over $3,500. Other than that I guess it is reliable. The brake pads are incredible; I am still on the original ones after more than 110,000 miles. Has not changed the timing belt yet, mechanic recommended at 120,000 vs. Lexus 90,000. My biggest complain is fuel economy, a full tank of gas gets only 230 miles. Pick up from get go is good however it lacks power at medium speed. The suspension is a bit soft and the turning radius is too large. I would want to have a little bit tighter body. I also want to replace this one with the hybrid.
2000 Lexus RX300
Common problem with this model is transmission failure at 90k - 130k. Well, mine failed at 144,000k. This is a low end Lexus and would not recommend this vehicle to anyone.
LuvMyRX!!!
I've had this car for 3 years now. I purchased it certified pre-owned from the dealership and I still love it. All my friends want to drive my car. No one believes me when I tell them it's a 2000 vehicle. Handles great with very comfortable seats. The cargo space is great. The back seats fold down easily and the only problem is that it's so roomy, it can't always take all the weight for home improvement projects!
Transmission went at 78000
Transmission went at 78000. Warranty is 70k/7yrs, and Lexus sticks to those numbers. This is a low-end basic Toyota transmission that Lexus loaded up with weight and gadgets. We know lots of people that have had 2x transmissions by 100k miles, some with 3x transmissions. It's the car's weak point for sure. Engine has had class action lawsuit for sludge/failure. Dealers still deny there's a problem - they're told to be quiet about it. Transmission class action is next. 2WD reliability is poor, 4WD reliability is abysmal
I love my Lexus!
I bought this car used and have had no problems with it at all. I take my RX 300 in regularly for oil changes and that's about it. I currently have 78k on the car now and hope to drive it for another 100 thousand miles or more! I would recommend this car used over many other brand new makes and models. Although my vehicle is almost 7 years old now, I trust it's reliability 100%.
The First 200k Miles...
Purchased it pre-owned for an individual and it has been excellent with only a couple of small problems. I am at almost 200 thousand miles and it still drives great. Aside from regular service, I've only had to replace a rear wheel bearing and washer fluid pump. Both together were less than $600 which is not bad for a nine year old car. I did make the mistake of trying to upgrade the spark plugs to Bosh IR's which burned 3 coil packs before I went back to the original Toyota plugs. So I would suggest to stay "factory" when it comes to tune-ups.
263000 mile still runs great
I have 263000 miles on this car with no major repairs so far,knock on wood its starting to shake a little in the early gears but rins great except sunroof does not work auto locks dont always work, drivers side window squeaky when rolling up or down buy really people. What car or suv do you possably know of that has no mechanical problems after 250000 miles I have same tranny, same engine same everything those who bought this car the had tranny or engine problems must have gremlins or bad luck or some one ragged the car out. This Lexus rx300 is the best, longest lasting suv you can humanly purchase. If I can afford it I will buy a newer model they are amazing SUVs.Now my rx300 is year2000 so it does not ride as smooth as im sure it once did. if you have the opportunity to buy one of these by all mean get a hold of it, You cant buy with this kind of luxury that will run 300 to 400 thousand miles. I love the car
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Still going strong
In past 18 months have put over 50k miles on car, now at 135k and going strong. Only normal maintenance, nothing more. Still rides, runs and stops as well as it did new. I've heard about transmission probs, but none for me (hoping the towing package helps w/ that). Strong metal used, just picked up first door dings this year - and took a good wallop at that. I keep looking at new cars, but just can't justify it when this one runs so well and looks so good.
Reliable now!
Bought it at 171k for a cheap $1,200 though it needed a new engine due to a bad knock from previous poor oil changes, I still was able to drive it home, after $3k for engine, the beautiful body now runs reliable. Leg room is good but Front seats are designed too short for the best comfort feel. Later traded for more roomy truck
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Lexus RX300
I put a lot of miles on my car for work. The Lexus is comfortable for long trips and isn't as bad on gas as the larger sport utilities. The additional addons like sunroof, six disc changer, and heated leather seats just add to the enjoyment of driving this car.
274k and still going strong!
Always driven German vehicles (MBZ, Bmw) , but Japan makes some great ones too! Well made, classy, safe, decent 22+MPG, VERY dependable...and my Wife loves it! I highly recommend this SUV!
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Great RX
I purchased my 2000 RX in 2003 used with 40K miles, have driven it another 100K without issue. I have not been able to find something that I like as much to replace it. Gas mileage averages 19 normal with up to 23 on the highway. Best car I have ever had!
Even on a BUDGET (except parts are costly)
I purchased my already 10 year old RX300 8 years ago while on a VERY tight purchase budget, previous car had been totaled and I was unemployed. The previous youthful driver had disrespected the car and it had many cosmetic and minor functional interior damages. I feel I was lucky to find such a reliable beautiful car way below market. The only draw back has been the cost of parts is higher than most cars but as a DYI person I was able to fix many of the problems at minimal cost. I have been very happy with this car as it has NOT required ANY other service except routine maintenance in the 8 years I have owned it, saving me lots of heart ache and money. After 19 years of use it runs smooth, quiet with no signs of age except the hood paint has failed and the leather on drivers seat has normal wear. Amazing quality. I will be purchasing a newer car soon and passing this beauty on to a another driver to appreciate quality at a low cost I expect they will get may more years of low cost enjoyment. The only design flaws I do not like is that it has a poor turning radius, can not make tight turns, need to swing out for U turns and it has a rear blind spot.
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Best suv ever.
I love the car! It has plenty of power all around. The interior comfort is great for long trips. I love the way it drives like a sedan, but still feels like an suv. I also like the peace of mind its many safety features give you. The interior is surprisingly roomy and luxurious. It is the first car I've ever had that keeps reseling itself. The more I drive it the more I love it. I have had it for over eight years. I have never had a problem except for routine service. I am sold on Lexus quality. I still receive compliments on it all the time. Even after eight years it still doesn't look outdated at all. I also enjoy the lexus premium sound system and the six disc cd changer. It sounds great.
Lexus RX 300 2000
The transmission went out without warning. I called Lexus, they said sorry about your luck. It will cost me $4200 to start for a reconditioned transmission. My mechanic said this model transmission is in such demand they are difficult to find. The name Lexus is nothing to me now!
Worst Car Ever Purchased.
I bought this car for reliability and have put so much money into repairs on this car that I've exceeded the value of the car. At 110,000 miles the transmission went out! (I thought Lexus built quality) I have had to replace 4 oxygen censors at the tune of $450 each. The engine now leaks oil. Just got new oxygen sensor last week & various other repairs ($800) today the check engine light came on again!! I am so disappointed in Lexus. I contacted them about the transmission problem which 1000's of people are having and received nothing! I thought when I bought Lexus I was buying a great car that would last forever!! NOT!! U need to trade this car at 80000.
Worst car I've ever owned
The Lexus brand is by far the greatest rip off in American history. The transmission failed at 100K, and the car has more sensors than any car I know. We have spent over $7,00o in repair fees on this car. I can not believe the reputation gets in the media. They give the Japanese car companies a bad name. Beware.
rx 300 lexus
i had transmission probrum 53,000 miles replaced new one after 50,000miles later transmission fell again in right middle of in death valley ca. it was so bad we had to wait 3 hours to toeing truck to arrive.i called lexus on thursday 4-16-20013 they told me get back to me on tuesday on 4-23-20013 still no answer. they told me to wait one more day. i am so angry about whole thing taking such long time to get back to me. i have rental car, have to return.
Bad Transmission
I just got in to this 2000 Rx 300 and was great it had 113k now over 1 month of driving have 115K and the transmission is gone, I love the suv but a lots of friend said that after 100k trans goes bad , I hope some one told me that before I got in to this pay in cash over $9,000 and now new trans. is a very bad luck or they have this problem and no one report this? please let the consumer to know about this before we keep putting our money on trash.
Love it
I have had my rx300 for a couple years now, and being almost 7 years old now, it still has up to date features and looks, very comfortable, and just a great car/suv. I have two kids now, and we're having more, so I have to upsize, and I really dont want to get rid of it.
Love my Lexus!
All of my cars have been imports. A friend of mine is a car dealer and got this vehicle. Within minutes of seeing it, I drove it and told him to hold the car for me. Two days later, I turned my Camry over to him for the RX and I absolutely LOVE IT! I travel to Mexico frequently and it handles nicely on the dirt roads. I tend to agree with the other reviewers in that the gas mileage could be improved, but everything else the vehicle makes up for that little nuisance. If you're considering purchasing an RX, I would highly recommend it. It doesn't get any better than a Japanese-made vehicle if you're looking for reliability. I say "I did find a better car and I did buy it!"
Shame on you Toyota (Lexus)
I purchased my Lexus RX300 when it was 1 year old and I knew the previous owner (engineer very good at maintaining). I have been pretty good abut keeping up with oil changes etc., and I have spent more money on this car than any car I've owned previously (Toyota or otherwise). First it was engine sludge and last month it was a new transmission. I now again have an emerging engine sludge problem and Lexus is again claiming no responsibility. I buy new and drive my cars forever, but my Lexus at 98,000 miles is the worst purchase I've ever made. I will not be buying a Toyota ever again.
Drives like a car...
Excellent quality and drivability. 5 years old and still looks current. Bought the car new and loved it. Over the years, the small annoyances start to wear on you, like having to stop for gas every 300 miles and having to back up when making u-turns and when parking due to large turning radius.
Phenomenal Vehicle
I've had my RX for over 4 years, and it's the best vehicle I've ever owned. I normally get bored with cars, and only keep them for a maximum of 3 years... this one I will likely be buried in. Drives amazingly, at 110k miles, no high cost repairs, extremely reliable, and comfortable! I love it as much as I did the day I bought it.
7 years later still up to date
I really think the RX 300 is the best deal going in used cars. I test drove a 2006 Lexus GS and I found out the only feature missing in my 2000 RX 300 is cooling seats to go with my heated seats. Everything else is there, and being a Lexus, its all in the same place, HomeLink, seat heaters, wonderful ergonomics, great leather. It did have an in dash CD changer which was also a nice add on. But for the money, my 00 AWD is basically the same. Power was close, smoothness, quietness. About the only upgrade would be more wood on the interior. This car is boring though, I won't lie, its rock solid reliable but its like a reliable washing machine or some other appliance, not exactly sporty.
Great SUV
Great SUV. Drives like a car and performs like a SUV. Very dependable and fun to drive. Having a few problems, fuel coils, windshield washer motor, wiring harness, less than 80k.
Just about the best!
We bought this car used and have been extremely pleased. It is the perfect size, perfect height for getting in and out of, and handles beautifully in winter driving. We have had very few maintenance issues, though have put a little money into repairs. Our complaints: no shoulder strap for middle rear position, front seats don't adjust quite enough so that the seat is too flat for us, sometimes hesitant at fast accelerations... but one learns to drive it as is. Great car for nearly anyone, though you do find yourself at the gas pump fairly often! I would prefer this car as is over most newer makes and models. Visibility is better than with the newer RX 330.
Keeps On Running
This car is my second favorite ever. It is 20 years old now with 163,000 miles. Since I have religiously changed oil every 3000mi, rotated tires every 5,000mi,, and did the scheduled maintenance, I have had no problems. Only issues are the driver & front seats are too short, and turning radius is much too short.
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Cant miss luxury
Purchased 2000 RX 300 on 08/04. This vehicle is everything you could want in a entry level luxury SUV. I agree that the RPMs seem high (3000 @ 70 mph), hopefully this will be addressed in future. Nice styling and Toyota's famous reliability make this a great choice. If they make enough RX 400hs in the next few years, I definitely would buy another Lexus.
Daily annoyances
What's up with the turning radius? I moved down from a larger SUV hoping to avoid the parking spot tango, only to be stuck with it for another 3 years! I also expected better gas mileage, particularly since it had little to no pickup. The factory cut my carpet too small; Nakamichi audio system sometimes didn't work; piece of trim on the back door continuously popped off; $600 ozone filter replacement at 30,000 miles; parking brake light comes on at 36,000 miles, leading you to believe you're driving with your parking brake on. No, just reminding you to check your brakes! Overall, I was thoroughly unimpressed with the quality of this vehicle.
Second Time Around
The RX is my second Lexus. I owned an ES before. The RX interior is awsome, comfortable, well appointed and visually pleasing. Honestly, the exterior grows on you. In terms of performance, the turning radius really is bad and fuel economy dissapoints. But what I like least is the choppy acceleration. Lot's of lag and downshifting at full acceleration. All in all though, a very nice compromise for someone who needs veratility.
Certified Quality
Bought certified '00 RX300 AWD, premium package, 47k mi. Looks, drives, feels like new. Body style virtually the same from 2000- 2003. Shopped around for months-- Acura MDX, Infinit QX4, BMW X5, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Range Rover Discovery. Lexus probably least "true SUV" of the bunch, but it provides me with what I really NEED (AWD, safety, reliability, quality) and WANT (smooth drive, top notch amenities). Don't plan to take my luxury SUV offroad... I'd buy a Jeep for that. This is a luxury vehicle that is capable of hauling 5 adults and cargo comfortably in any weather (rain, snow, shine). It's not for rock climbing, trail riding, etc.
Changed my allegiance
I'm a recently converted Lexus fan. I thought it would just be a dressed up Toyota, but Lexus really got it right. This car does everything!
So Far, Not So Good! Bad Knock Sensors!
Just purchased the vehicle - everything seemed great at first especially for its age. It drove smooth, engine was quiet, transmission shifted perfectly, handling was nice, seats were comfortable, body was in great shape for its age. For the price it seemed like a steal so bought it without any hesitation. But then on my drive home, the overdrive on the transmission wasn't working, it was stuck in 3rd gear and revving almost 5k RPMs on the highway! I thought there was something wrong with the transmission, so took it to my mechanic right away. Thankfully, nothing is wrong with the transmission, but both knock sensors are bad, which put the transmission into "limp mode" which disables the overdrive and keeps it stuck in 3rd gear. How poorly designed of a car! It cost me about $1300 to fix. Hopefully I will get good use out of the car, and hopefully nothing else goes wrong. The reason I purchased it was for the reliability of Toyota / Lexus and so far it hasn't lived up to its standard, but still hoping for the best!
the golden god
perfect highway cruiser, great in the snow/even blizzards driving through alberta, solid construction, dead reliable. when this one dies i’ll just buy another one. one thing i would say though is if you’re doing a-lot of roadtrips like i have, please get a ceramic coating or clear bra or something because the tiny rock chips will add up over the years. upgrade the headlights, wish it had auxiliary input. overall a beautiful car that has never left me stranded(aside from the time the alternator gave out after 20 years of service). also coil packs on the back of the engine will cost quite a bit in labor but common on these transverse v6 toyota engines.
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malik's review
Excellent suv good in snow, this is my second lexus and I wouldn't have any thing else. the only problem is gas mileage.
satified sewell customer for life
This is a smooth riding vehicle with lots of comfort and style, ride in luxury , very dependable, holds its value.
Quality Vehicle
We bought ours used with 78K miles in 2005. We were taking our chances with Toyota quality and we are glad we did. The car has no problems till this day with 110K. We have promptly serviced our car with timing belt replacement, new tires, new brakes, and new alternator over three years and it is still running strong. We'll probably keep it another year or two.
2000 Lexus RX 300 4WD
Not too impressed by this car. Has lots of problems. Sensors go all the time, the ignition coils go a lot and they cost $95 a piece (6 of them will cost you close to $600 not including labor costs), if the check engine light comes on (which comes on all the time) the car will usually not shift into overdrive, the back spark plugs are almost impossible to change because the manifold is in the way and many many more. I thought Toyotas were reliable but I was wrong. I won't buy a Lexus or Toyota again.
how many 02 sensors can one car need replacing
I have had the alternator go out. and countless sensors it goes in the shop about 1 time a year for at least 500 in repairs. I will never buy a lexus again biggest piece of crap. I will buy a ford for my next car. I broke down 100 miles from home and had to hitch hike. scary. I [non-permissible content removed] hate this car
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The Best SUV ever!!!
The Lexus RX300 is the best SUV on the market hands down. I have gotten more compliments about my RX300 than any other car that I own!!! This car is definitely worth the investment!! UPDATE: Have owned this vehicle for the past 23 years and it has been an amazing experience!! From the luxurious interior to the rock solid reliability you cannot go wrong with purchasing an RX300!!
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Jury still out
I just purchased a certified 2000 model and I am not surr if i am sold yet. The turning radius is horrible and the fuel economy isnt that great either. The ride is smooth, but lacks in pep. The moonroof shade is the only problem i have with the interior because it is made out of shoddy materials and is too light, will move forward with sudden braking. The should haev added a compass as part of the info screen.