1999 Lexus RX 300 4WD 3.0 V6

Summary:

Incredible all around SUV with Toyota Reliability

Faults:

Rear tail light blew out.

Gear indicator light went out, both in the instrument cluster and by the shifter.

Antennae is stuck.

General Comments:

I've only owned this car for about 20,000 miles, but I purchased it knowing that it is "Lexus reliable". And so far it's lived up to it's reputation.

The transmission does nudge a little between gears and when you slow down and then accelerate again, there is a slight delay and then the clutch suddenly catches, resulting in a jerk. My brother-in-law also owned a '99 RX300 and it was the same with his car.

The car definitely has pep in the higher RPMs. Has plenty of torque and is easy to fling around, especially in power mode.

Gas mileage is a steady 19~21 miles per gallon which is impressive for an SUV.

The only problem is that too many people own this car so it doesn't stand out. But I guess that's also a good thing.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st August, 2005

15th Oct 2009, 16:54

There is no clutch in an automatic transmission...

1999 Lexus RX 300

Summary:

A non dependable flawed sport utility

Faults:

My transmission went out at 72,000 miles, the Lexus Dealer did give me a rebuilt transmission free of charge. I am very UNhappy to report that at 114,000 miles the transmission has gone out once again. Lexus of course is not paying for it this time, I am.

JD.Power ranks these cars number one in dependability? I drive my Lexus with great care in normal city conditions.

I have had many different cars of different makes and have never had a problem with a transmission until I got my Lexus RX 300! We should all unite and start a class action law suit to get our Thousands of Dollars Back!

General Comments:

It is a nice car aside from the Transmission that goes out every 40,000 miles.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 17th August, 2005

29th Nov 2005, 14:14

I agree, a tranny should last beyond 114k miles on a properly serviced Lexus.

The RX300 is an average-to-good vehicle, but should NEVER be confused with having the reliability attributes that are given to the flagship model LS sedan or LX suv.

18th Dec 2005, 17:52

I had the same problem as the comment above with my 99 RX300. I think this engine is underpowered for such a heavy car for all it is, is an ES300 motor. I've owned Lexus since 90 when they first came out and will dirve nothing other than Lexus. This is the only Lexus I've had that has had tranny problems. All my other Lexus have over 150,000 and still run like new. I don't think you should give up on Lexus, just buy a different model. The LS is the best in my opinion, but my wife likes the SC the best.

View 95 more comments

1999 Lexus RX 300 3.0 V6

Summary:

Take a look at certified-used Lexus

Faults:

The only things that have gone wrong is the battery dieing 3 times, but all my fault. Lexus replaced them free of charge under the certified warranty. Car makes squeaking noise until it is warmed-up. Dealer said it is the fuel-injection.

General Comments:

This car is amazing power, quality, size, comfort everything you need is right here in one car. Instead of buying new buy a certified used car. Comes with 3year 100,000mile warranty plus you get a free loaner car to use while your Lexus is being serviced. Lexus will definatly be my next car. In fact I just bought a Gs400 for my son. Also an amazing car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th April, 2005

1999 Lexus RX 300 SUV

Summary:

There are none better

Faults:

I replaced some bushings on the front shocks at 125,000 miles

I replaced the brakes at 135,000 miles

I had a manifold holding sprint break at 140,000 miles.

Still on the same set of Michelin tires. (close to 70,000 miles)

General Comments:

The vehicle is a dream, I would recommend this vehicle to anyone. Very comfortable ride, great handling, and more than adequate power with an average of 19 mpg since I have owned it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th November, 2004