Used 2001 Lexus RX 300 Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
How about this for a catchy title----OVER 203,000
Over 203,000 miles and STILL GOING. Bought this car with 60,000 miles back in 2008. Just minor repairs since. At 150,000 miles my mechanic replaced water pump, all hoses and gaskets, along with timing belt for $1000 total. Keep in mind, this was all preventive maintenance that I requested even though nothing was wrong with the car. The only negative I might improve upon is the thin leather covering the seats. Could be a little better quality. Now I am looking for another car but am hesitant to give up this car as I am worried about the quality of my next car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Will purchase a Lexus AGAIN!
The odometer reading is over 405,000 with the original engine and transmission. I did change out the ignition for ~$800 several years ago. When I am forced to get another vehicle...it will be another Lexus SUV! I love it!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,65059 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,988336 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,500427 mi away
160,000 and still going strong
I bought this vehicle used with 120k miles. Aside from oil changes and new tires, I've only had to replace the belts. I've put 40k miles on it over the past 2 years. If you jumped in and drove the vehicle without looking at the odometer, you'd never know it had 160k miles. The ride is still comfortable and the engine runs strong. My Lexus has been good to me so far.
What a great suv that rides like luxury car
I have been driving this suv for the last 7 years without any major problems, all that was needed were regular oil changes, periodic transmission fluid changes and brakes. Did major tune up recently cost me less than $700. Very comfortable quite ride and very reliable.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Not a Lexus Toyota Fan Anymore
My well-maintained 01 RX 300 just died at 115K miles with a bad transmission. Estimated cost to repair is in the many thousands. After over 10 years of owning Toyotas (an 88 Camry, a 95 ES 300 and then the 01 RX 300), I've changed from a die-hard fan to a never-again disbeliever. Couldn't believe my eyes when the RX just died the way it did. This after following the factory maintenance schedule and taking good care of it.
RX300 2001 Problems Transmissions
Gentlemen, 2001 RX 300 has a company defect. The transmissions are failing; I have replace the transmission twice so far at 120,000 miles. I believe this to be a factory problem with the entire model for several years 1999 through 2002. I wish Lexus would step up to the plate and fix these vehicle's transmissions. $2500 to $6,000 EACH REPAIR!
Transmission break down.
I have 115000 miles. The transmission had failed on the freeway. Cost to have it fixed with a remanufactured transmission from same dealer is $3400. Surprized to find this failure at 115000 miles. did not have this problem with US cars even with mileage more than 150000. Are we blind sighted to the quality of Lexus? This dos not complain about the failing door locks and engine light on etc.
Wonderful SUV - No Issues until 130,000 Miles
Owned this SUV for 14 years, started having issues with the Transmission and replaced it in 2015. Also can not automaticly open the doors with key as locks and passenger windows no longer work. have to work them manually. As she is 16 years old I had to replace an Oxygen sensor, wheel bearing and the writing on the on and off buttons are wearing off. However she has stood the test of time and she is still running and looks good. Overall I have not had to make lots of costly repairs, just followed the normal maintenace routines.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2001 Lexus RX300
I bought my 2001 Lexus RX300 almost two years ago with 89K, now it has 98K and I love this car. It's a laxuary car with a lot of options. Also, mine has it's factory navigation system, so I just changed the disc to 2011 and I'm happy. All I have to say it's a perfect family car especially in a winter time when it snows.
Horrible engines, do not buy!
All I can say is do your homework! Just after I rolled over 100,00 miles my engine threw a rod and now I am getting another engine put in. I ran a full synthetic oil for 22000 miles and did not think that Lexus would have problems like this with this mileage. All I can say is before you buy do your research on Lexus oil gel/sludge.
Big problems at 89,000 but loved my little RX300
I loved this car and miss it but it wasn't worth the problems we ended up having at only 87,000 miles. Especially after paying what we did. Transmission issues a known problem I see now. We bought it used in 2005 with only 41k miles on it from a Lexus dealer in CA and it was certified (which means nothing). We loved it until this year, the transmission went out, which Lexus agreed to put in a refurbished tranny and we had to pay the labor $1500.00. Then the battery went and then we started having lights go on, the traction control light would not go off, then the driver window would get stuck! You would think a higher end car would be built better!
comfy suv
Had this suv since new- still happy with it. Not the best looking , not the best handling , not the most technologically advanced , but - still won't part with it. Has very good outward visibility , comfortable on long trips with good storage. It has been very reliable and I can depend on it. Not bad for an old guy like me .... ;)
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
great vehicle
bought this used, and we couldn't have been more lucky with a vehicle. great on gas, safe, quiet, dependable.
milage reliability
the first 120000 were smooth trouble free getting 18mpg town/25mpg road. went to bridgestone tires and rides like a limo. leather seats are thin but comfortable. at 125000 2 fuel injectors worn out $700. at 135000 smog canister failure light $700. now, front passenger seat air bag system warning lights. cost ? as it is going to someone else.
Sludge engine car- do not own
Forget what you think about Lexus and Toyotas quality, the 3.0 L engine in this vehicle has a KNOWN defect that Toyota/Lexus has been ducking for years. My car blew an engine despite proper oil changes and care. Problems generally occurs after 100,000 miles after warranty. Toyota settled a class action lawsuit on this and essentially paid lawyers millions so they can duck the problem. Google "Sludge Engine" but be aware you have a time bomb on your hands.
Too much repairs at close to 200,000 miles
Well, it was a great car. My mom took over the car from me, so she was the 4th owner. It has some minor issues here and there until the end, when the repairs seemed to be more than the car was worth. Old faithful needed a new exhaust, and other repairs that just didn't seem worth spending on a car that was almost 20 years old. So, we donated it to a good cause. I must say this car was so great in the winter and was fun to drive. I have moved on to a 2009 RX350 which I love. My mother has moved onto a Rav4. We appreciate the Toyota brand cars and that they last a long time with minimal repair expenses.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
bad bad car
I purchased my car drove it for less then two years, I replaced the transmission in it 3 times and right now it this very moment I need another transmission I paid out more for transmissions than the car cost me. I loved the car that is why I tried to keep it but it put me in the poor house, shame on Lexus
Toyota Quality Gone Astray
This is a very nice riding vehicle. For the most part reliable, but when it hits you, it hits you hard. Every since I have owned this vehicle, it has stumbled, sputtered, and fell on it's face at random times of it's own choosing. I have had it into the shop many times and most of the time they replace the components most likely to cause the problem based on the "codes" it throws. No fix. Ever. It is so unreliable, my wife says NEVER AGAIN will we buy Lexus. NOW, we find out that the transmission is going out (with regular maintenance given) and this is just the last straw. It's gonna cost us $4 grand to fix. Wow. Now I'm even saying NEVER AGAIN. What a shame for such a nice vehicle.
Excellent SUV
This is an excellent sport utility vehicle. The gas mileage for me is 20.1 mpg. I choose suv over cars because of the better suspension. I am able to haul more weight than a regular car. The ride and handling is smooth on especially on highway and country side.
Best car EVER, 2001 RX 300
Almost 170,000. and no problems with engine, transmission,or anything major, so far. Bought in 2001. Have had all service done with dealership, which I normally would not do but has been working. the things that have gone wrong are:1. drivers seatbelt shredded and replaced.at 90,000, 2. Mirror with compass has gone haywire in the last 6 months. stays dark. 3. Passenger locks on rear doors have needed replacement. I would buy a 2020 RX but seats are miserable, esp headrests. They push my head foreward. Im short , but the same situation for my husband and he is significantly taller. So Im looking at Acura RDX. This Lexus wont last forever.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Outstanding vehicle
I love it. I can never go back to any of the vehicles I had before. It's a dream to drive.
2 RX 300s, 2 Good Experiences
I purchased a 99 RX 300 in 2005 for my college daughter. Early in 2008, after 3 years of excellent service and tremendous utility and service from that vehicle, I purchased a 2001 silver one for myself. Both had just under 100K miles when purchased, both perform better than most new vehicles. If you are looking for excellent service, a used Lexus is a good bet. Repairs are rare, maintenance costs are very reasonable, and the cost to operate are low for the level of service, reliability, and safety delivered. Regular gas is a plus, mileage on these vehicles is around 21-22 combined. Solid vehicle.
Lexus Automobiles Forever
I personally have owned over 10 new cars over the years, and I, without hesitation, say that the Lexus, especially the SUVs, are the most dependable, beautifully designed automobile throughout the industry. The ride, comfort, gas mileage, and convenience, make this car the best... nothing more... only the best of the best. I own a 2001 RX 300, bought by me brand new, and I must admit it rides just as great today as when I first drove it out of the showroom I sincerely advise those who have not experienced its ride and everything else I have mentioned, please do it and take a test drive. I believe once you do, you will be hooked on nothing else. I happen to favor its SUVs.
Unmatched Quality and Reliabililty
This by far is the most reliable car I have ever owned. Oil changes, tires and brakes only. The style, quiet ride and care-free maintenance has converted me to a Lexus fan for life! I keep wanting to buy a newer Lexus model but cannot justify getting rid of this SUV when it still runs and looks like new. My friends are shocked when they learn it is 8 years old and approaching 90k miles.
Favorite car I've ever owned !!!
Getting ready to let go of my Lexus 2001 RX 300 - I must say it has my favorite car that I have ever owned. It has been fun to drive, comfortable and most importantly, dependable!! Getting quite a few miles on the car so I felt it's time to move on. I have just purchased the new 2008 RX 350 to replace my previous 2001. Because I enjoyed my first Lexus SUV so much I decided to go ahead and get another!
Extraordinary value
This car was built for the long-haul.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
this truck never ceases to amaze me @306K
I have owned this SUV (I call it "my truck") for close to 12 years.....at the present time it has 306K MILES (has at least 100K more to go - 46K miles when I bought it)...........only real expense AND WAS A BIG ONE......had to make a decision at 150K miles what to do about transmission which is common on this vehicle from what I understand..........and I decided to spend extra and get a rebuilt one from AAMCO with a lifetime warranty.............and so glad I did.........they had to work on it a few times after about a year but nothing since.......I kept mine serviced very religiously at 3-5K miles .....of course put brakes, belts, FREON (for sure in MISSISSIPPI HEAT), a few tune ups but those Lexus parts are soo expensive but they just last forever.............. and just now replacing axles, brake booster, and plugs..............a few other issues but not major.............motor is SOOOOO SOLIDDDDD...........I LOVE IT...........but it's time for a new CAR this time...........and OF COURSE will be a LEXUS........FOR SURE FOR SURE..............when NO IF I can part with this one.
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Just loving the car
Purchased an extended warranty too but never used. Just did a valve cover gasket change. But over all just love the car. Had no major problems. Has about 90k miles. If you keep the car maintain it will help a lot
Lexus engine
I purchased my 2001 Lexus about 9 months ago with 180,000 miles now I have 208,000 miles. I haven't had any issues the last owner was a family friend that took care of the maintenance very well. My question is what is the average life of the engine how much more miles can I get out of it? I been taking care of the maintenance on car since got it.
Make sure you have this vehicle checked out
Due to this being an old car, I'm sure my rating would have been different if I purchased it new. I bought it in 2013. However since I have had things go wrong with the car, I would not buy another one. I would caution anyone purchasing this car just to get it looked over by a professional before buying. Right now I do not have heat. the lock on the glove box is broken, so I cannot change cd's. Most of the seat clips are broken in the back. The plastic that keep the seat belt from sliding into the seat belt compartment is broken, so I have it pined. Paint and body integrity isn't good. Mechanically the car has been good.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Will not buy another RX
We bought our RX used, with very low mileage. After having owned 5 trouble free Toyotas, we were shocked when the transmission of our well maintained RX failed at 80K miles. It was an expensive and very time consuming repair, as the parts were very hard to locate. We still are not happy with how the transmission hunts for a gear at lower speeds. Cargo space is terrible, interior is a bit cramped and not all that comfortable and the center console and cup holders are poorly designed and flimsy.Turning radius is bad and acceleration could be a lot better. No more RXs for us. EVER!
Six month owner
It's been six months since I bought my RX 300. We had a horrendous winter and I drove with hardly a worry once I saw how this magificent vehicle handled in the snow and ice. Traction and stability are exceptional. My only complaint is the heater didn't keep my feet warm on my hour drive to work - but, to be fair, it was in the below zero range. A very luxurious car! Gas mileage is very consistent at 20.5 mpg for both highway and city. I just wish I could get it up to 23mpg. Something about the design of the lower part of the door frame is causing the rubber trim to be ripped. Hopefully this will be covered under the warranty.
Very Very Nice
We were thoroughly impressed with this vehicle since first test driving one in 2000. Thought about an '04 (they are very nice,too), but the '01-'03 model is just more fluid, had better takeoff, and considerably less engine noise. The interior is definitely upscale. All that wood makes you feel like you're driving around in a den. More leg room, especially in the back, than most of the other SUVs we drove. We have the blue mist with black leather,with every option except AWD and Navigation, and it is simply beautiful. This is one nice vehicle. Just what I expected from a Lexus.
First Lexus, Not the Last
Our first SUV,purchased with 45k and factory certification to 100k. Great ride, handling a little mushy around corners, but good for SUV. Very comfortable, and we always "feel" the pleasure of a luxury riding vehicle. Very quiet ride. Did not get the NAV system, but am planning on purchasing top-of-the-line portable system. Have tested the new Acura MDX and BMW X5, and while nice cars, we still like the RX better. This is my wife's car, but I like it so much that I'm buying a 2001 AWD RX Silversport with 33k, factory certified, sports suspension that handles curves better. I never buy new; let some other guy eat the depreciation.
Not sure but hopeful
Bought the car around 60K miles; very nice looking interior and exterior. Very comfortable ride and heated seats still get hot at 179,000 miles. However, transmission had to be replaced last year since it would not go in rear drive. Lexus assisted a bit, perhaps because this is our third Lex. Still had a $3000 bill. Recent repairs $800 and now ABS axle broke so looking at another $1000 repair. Must say our 97 Lex Es300 has 300,000 miles and rides very nice still with only minor repairs. Our 05 Lex Es 330 is roomier but still ride was better in 97. Paint superior on all three cars. In the market for a newer car, just not sure if I should get another RX. A bit formal style vs. casual.
Over 290,000
These are original miles since I bought my car new… I love it!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Forget the monstrous SUVs!
My RX300 was the smartest purchase I've made. It drives as smoothly today as it did the day it came off of the lot, and has an incredible service record- never had ANYTHING break. I don't understand the big deal that is being made over the LCD screen. It's not complicated! After a couple of drives to get used to it, I acclimated to the system and now love being able to see all of the information at a glance. If you can't figure out the info on the screen, you probably shouldn't be operating a 2-ton vehicle.
Great car
This is a wonderful car! I really hesitated at the price, but, so far, it has been worth it. Gas mileage could be better in town, but highway mileage is reasonable for the performance and safety features. The Lexus dealers have been uniformly excellent-they have the best customer service of any dealer around. I chose the car for its reliability and safety ratings, but it is a blast to drive, especially on long trips, and was great in the snow last winter.
RX is Best Car I've Owned
The 2001 RX is the first Lexus we have owned and it is the best car we have owned. Rides great, comfortable for four adults (don't bring a lot of luggage) and performance is very acceptable (remember this is an SUV). One of the nice benefits of an Lexus is the service provided by the dealership, which is fantastic. Last year we went skiing in Colorado and the RX went up I-70 without any problems at all ... more power than I had predicted.
A Reliable SUV That Could Have Been
Wow! That was my first impression driving this beauty after having two Jeep Grand Cherokees before this. It is smooth and quiet with seamless acceleration that seems adequate but not stellar. Its body lines are magnificent and its interior is well appointed and very well crafted. It has 94K miles on it now and if I didn't tell you that, I could fool you into believing it had 20K. No joke. It does have some unexcusable shortcomings, though. Something you don't expect out of Toyota. I will list those below.
If you want a plush ride...
?ä a dependable safe family vehicle for Minnesota. We found it. The RX300 (after test driving many comparable vehicles in the same price range) has an extremely quiet and plush ride. The refinements in the cabin such as the audio system, the NAV system, and even the cup holders were well thought of and top quality. Our RX has 62000 miles, 36000 when we purchased it and we have not had any mechanical problems or electrical concerns to date. We would definitely buy this vehicle again.
SuPeR DuPeR
I love the RX 300. Just bought a 2001 model last year. Feels great. Rides wonderfully. Love the car. You should buy one too!
Good deal
Bought this new and in 90000 had no problems at all. Very comfortable on short/long trips and milage 18 town/25 road. Everything works just like the first day and I really look for problems so I can fix them before they become big and just do scheduled maintenance/no surprises.
TERRIFIC CAR TO DRIVE!
NICEST 4x4 TO LOOK AT, MOST FUN TO DRIVE! WHEN YOU ADD LEXUS RELIABILITY (THIS ONE IS MY SECOND WITH NO PROBLEMS TO REPORT) AND THE VALUE THAT THIS CAR RETAINS, WHEN YOU WANT TO SELL IT, YOU HAVE AN INSTANT WINNER!
Awesome
cool
Love it!!
Originally went looking at a brand new Explorer. For a lot less I was able to buy a used 2000 Lexus. The quality is a lot better than any SUV I test drove. This vehicle sits high like a truck, yet rides smooth like a car. The driving view is also impressive. The look and feel of the interior and exterior says "luxury" all the way around.
Great Car
Has the advantage of an SUV, all wheel drive, sitting up higher which improves visability,etc. without compromising ride and luxury. Slightly higher center of gravity does not effect stability.
Luxury @ a reasonable price.
Bought used. Beautiful! Smooth, quiet ride and fuel economy. Power when you need it but enjoyable just 'cruising'.
Love this Lexus!
This is my 2nd Lexus RX300...traded the 1999 for this Certified Pre-owned-a little more expensive, but worth it! Great handling in poor weather conditions, comfortable ride, great cargo space. Newer RX 330 didn't have as much room width-wise. Rear passengers ride comfortably-even the long-legged teens. Great car for drivers' education!
2001 Lexus RX 300
It is the most reliable car that I've ever owned. It has handsome styling (which is why Lexus has not changed it much over the past 10 years) and gets great gas mileage. I get 20 in town and 25 on the highway. It's reliability is unsurpassed. It handles well and has all the space one would need for hobbies, kids, etc. We purchased it new and still enjoy driving it. We will buy another new one soon - but we are keeping the 2001. We will probably hand it down to our grandchildren.