Model year

2013 Lexus RX

SUV, gasoline, 4x2, built in Japan. Owner complaints on file from Jun 29, 2021 to Jul 7, 2026.

Recall campaigns covering this model year0No recall campaign lists this model year
Owner complaints19Below the median 2013 suv
Severity index26.32013 suvs average 6.1
First 24 months0Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2013 Lexus RX peaked in 2025, with 5 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

02462021202220232024202552026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

16% of complaints about the 2013 Lexus RX name electrical system

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Electrical system
3
Airbags
2
Driver assistance
2
Brakes
2
Steering
2
Structure
2
Back-over prevention
1
Engine and cooling
1
Powertrain
1
Suspension
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

No recall campaign lists the 2013 Lexus RX

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2013 Lexus RX

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

19 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.

  1. Filed Jul 7, 2026Failure Jun 24, 2026151,219 milesLas Vegas, NVSpeedometer/odometer

    Odometer Fraud: The contact purchased a 2013 Lexus RX 350. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 96,575. After reviewing an AutoCheck report by Experian the following day, the contact became aware that the mileage was 151,219.

    NHTSA complaint 11748807
  2. Filed Apr 8, 2026Failure Mar 20, 2026Burbank, CAElectrical system, Body, Unknown or otherFire

    Vehicle was parked, engine off, and unattended. An internal electrical fire originated in the overhead/sunroof wiring area. Damage includes melted wiring harness near the sunroof, burned center console, and soot throughout the interior. The fire originated in a constant-power electrical circuit and spread downward into the cabin. There were no aftermarket modifications, no external heat sources, and no objects in the vehicle that could have caused ignition. Ambient temperature conditions were normal and insufficient to cause this damage. This represents a serious safety defect because the fire originated spontaneously within the vehicle’s electrical system and could have resulted in a full vehicle fire or injury if occupants were present. The failure appears to involve factory-installed wiring/components and is not consistent with normal wear or external factors.

    NHTSA complaint 11729838
  3. Filed Feb 15, 2026Failure Feb 10, 2026Houston, TXAutomatic emergency braking, Service brakes, Unknown or other

    I was just driving regular and the rx350 started to jerk and apply the breaks by itself and slip and go side ways and the car behind me almost hit me because my Lexus started to stop hard and fast .im pressing the gas but it’s not accelerating.the engine wanted to stop and very dangerous I’m scared to even drive the vehicle.i am the 3rd owner and now i know why the otheer people don’t want it .there is a recall for that problem but im new to the car recalls so im not to shure what to do to get the car repaired .i would like this fix especially because it is a recall .thanks

    NHTSA complaint 11718143
  4. Filed Sep 27, 2025Failure Sep 24, 2025Anaheim, CASteeringCrash

    While my daughter was driving at about 1:15 PM in a residential neighborhood, the steering wheel suddenly jerked hard to the right and locked while in motion. This caused the vehicle to crash into a parked car. After the vehicle was towed home, the steering wheel remained locked with both front tires pointed sharply right. When I restarted the vehicle, the steering wheel immediately spun right on its own and locked again. It could not be moved manually, and the front tires stayed stuck in the fully turned position. This appears to be a critical steering system failure. It presents a severe safety risk and could easily result in serious injury or death. Note: I had the car towed home immediately after my daughter informed me of the incident. She reported the accident to AAA Insurance at that time, and the adjuster later indicated they wanted to tow the car for evaluation and a possible total loss settlement. However, I would keep the car at my home for inspection and can reproduce the issue if you let me know when you are available to come out. There were no warning signs prior to the failure, and the car had just passed a smog check a few weeks ago. I just made a video but don't know how to attach it.

    NHTSA complaint 11690104
  5. Filed May 13, 2025Failure Oct 31, 2023Durham, NCSteering

    When driving the car the steering column felt loose and when going over a railroad track or bump the steering column would jiggle. The car steering felt unsafe. Took it to the Lexus dealer in Austin Texas four or five times and they said they could not find a problem. This a a known issue on several models of Toyotas and Lexus vehicles since the early 2000’s. Toyotas/lexus continued to be manufactured with a faulty steering bussing. Because the car felt unsafe I took it to an authorized mechanic and they took the steering column apart and replaced a flawed steering bearing. The labor was $741 to disassemble and reassemble the steering column. The steering is fine now. I am so disappointed that this flaw with the steering bussing is known and not covered by Toyota/Lexus. Other models with the same problem have been recalled!

    NHTSA complaint 11660645
  6. Filed May 4, 2025Failure Apr 6, 2025Omaha, NEUnknown or other

    AC or Heating stopped working on Passenger side and Rear after not using it for a couple of weeks. I checked online and a lot of RX350 owners have this issue.

    NHTSA complaint 11658745
  7. Filed Mar 15, 2025Failure Jan 6, 2025Massillon, OHEngine

    When I was driving down the road there have been times that I smelled smoke and was concerned my car was on fire. I checked the oil and inspected around my car, and didn't find the source. Today when I took my car in for service I found out the source of the smoke has been for the past 4 months. There is engine oil leaking from the timing cover that I was informed by my Lexus Dealership today would cost $7,000 (approximate) to fix. I researched online and found that all vehicles with this particular engine are known to have this problem, and it is fairly common. Leaking oil can be a fire hazard, and it seems unacceptable that Lexus/Toyota let this issue continue without addressing it with a recall. Thanks for your time, and I have also sent a similar letter to Lexus also to let them know of my concern.

    NHTSA complaint 11648426
  8. Filed Feb 25, 2025Failure Jan 22, 2025101,786 milesPleasant Hill, CAControl arm

    The contact owns a 2013 Lexus RX350. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was pulling to either the left or right. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that the front control arms were torn and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 101,786.

    NHTSA complaint 11644901
  9. Filed Oct 29, 2024Failure Oct 18, 2024Hazel Park, MIWarnings, Electrical system, Blind spot detection

    I was in the Toyota advantage dealer in Barbousville WV to see why my park assist after replaced are stating there still out per Toyota I need a Wire Harness that’s on back, back, back order now that’s two critical items my car needs and I’m in a new place where I need GPS to work and no one has any ideal when the parts will be available for the Wire Harness nor the Air Bag well per Lexus just wait that does not work for me.

    NHTSA complaint 11622541
  10. Filed Mar 17, 2024Failure Mar 2, 2024Plano, TXUnknown or other

    This vehicle is missing along with a 25 year old driving it We need GPS data to locate this vehicle however Toyota motor corps is not cooperating in getting this data to us, please help us.

    NHTSA complaint 11577904
  11. Filed Jan 30, 2024Failure Sep 17, 2022Smithfield, VAAccelerator pedalCrash1 injured

    The contact owned a 2013 Lexus RX 350. While the contact was parking her vehicle the vehicle inadvertently accelerated and crashed into a tree. The contact was not sure how fast the vehicle was moving. The contact crashed into the tree head on and crushed the center of the bumper and grill. The contact stated that the air bag had not deployed. The contact stated she did not notice any warning lights. The contact was transported by ambulance to the hospital. The contact suffered lacerations on her hands and face. The contact stated that the police arrived after she had been transported. The vehicle was not repaired and was declared a total loss by her insurance provider. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

    NHTSA complaint 11568826
  12. Filed Jan 13, 2024Failure Oct 15, 2023Cape Coral, FLUnknown or other1 injured

    Rear hatch door let loose and hit my wife in head knocking her out temporarily. Lexus dealership would not run diagnostic unless I paid them 150.00. My 8year or 100,000 mile warranty ran out in 2021.

    NHTSA complaint 11565260
  13. Filed Sep 13, 2023Failure Apr 5, 2016Fort Myers, FLBody

    I purchased a 2013 Lexus RX 350 pearl white in color. After about 2 years I noticed spots mainly on the roof and now it is everywhere. The curious thing about the spots are that they are under the clear coat. We had the vehicle checked by a paint professional and we confirmed that it was factory paint. I like to report this issue .

    NHTSA complaint 11544359
  14. Filed Jul 4, 2023Failure Jun 28, 2023Baldwin, MDUnknown or other

    I have had a reoccurrence of a warning light "Trac Off- Check AWD" ( All Wheel Drive}. This is, apparently, an indication that the Vehicle Stability System has been turned off. The car is now less safe/ controlled in slippery inclement conditions. In researching this issue, I have found numerous indications that many drivers have experienced this problem with Vrious Lexus models and model years. Dealer service departments appear to be baffled and unable to correct the problem. The attempted/unsuccessful repairs have been costly.

    NHTSA complaint 11530332
  15. Filed Jan 28, 2023Failure Jan 28, 2023Tyler, TXUnknown or other

    Sunroof glass exploded while driving car

    NHTSA complaint 11504198
  16. Filed Aug 17, 2022Failure Jun 8, 2022Long Beach, CAPower train

    Had so many issues with this car. Transmission went out at 52k (was replaced under warranty), and at 86k, it went out again. Car overheated and won't move in traffic. Had to push and move it to the side. Had a independent shop rebuild the transmission. Notified Lexus, but won't help due to it was not taken into their dealer. Nothing came on the dash, nor showed any symptom prior to the incident. Thanking you in advance for looking into this matter.

    NHTSA complaint 11479702
  17. Filed Apr 26, 2022Failure Nov 1, 2021Windsor, CTService brakes

    There seems to be a barking noise when pressing the brakes even when engine is not on. Local shop could not diagnose the issue. I heard this could be the regenerative system that is expensive to repair. Braking seems ok but I am concerned as I thought there were some recalls on brake booster for this year but they say not on my car.

    NHTSA complaint 11462173
  18. Filed Feb 20, 2022Failure Jan 20, 2022Skillman, NJAir bags

    Airbag sign on .. lexus service is asking for recalibration to fix the issue

    NHTSA complaint 11453147
  19. Filed Jun 29, 2021Failure Jun 27, 2021105,606 milesRuther Glen, VAAir bagsCrash1 injured

    The contact owns a 2013 Lexus RX450H. The contact stated while driving at an unknown speed, the contact had crashed into a tree which resulted in the airbags not deploying. The contact does not remember anything between driving on the highway and waking up in an ambulance. The contact sustained shoulder, neck, and mild concussion and sought medical treatment. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard where it was awaiting diagnosis. The manufacturer was informed of failure and the contact was awaiting a response. The failure mileage was approximately 105,606.

    NHTSA complaint 11422817
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

34 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall.

  • L-SB-0030-24 Rev2 Dec 15, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2026 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to…
  • L-SB-0043-23 Rev1 Jun 13, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The air conditioning dye injection tool kit has been developed to aid in identifying the location of air conditioning refrigerant leaks. The procedures outlined in this Service Bulletin aid in locating, inspecting, and repairing refrigerant leaks.
  • L-SB-0017-19 Rev1 Feb 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2010 – 2026 model year Lexus vehicles may exhibit paint stains after the removal of Rapgard™. The paint stains may appear to be under the clear coat but are usually under wrinkles in the Rapgard™. The wrinkles may trap water and cause the paint to stai…
  • L-SB-0017-19 Rev1 Feb 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2010 – 2026 model year Lexus vehicles may exhibit paint stains after the removal of Rapgard™. The paint stains may appear to be under the clear coat but are usually under wrinkles in the Rapgard™. The wrinkles may trap water and cause the paint to stai…
  • L-SB-0030-24 Rev1 Jul 29, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2024 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to…
  • L-SB-0030-24 Rev1 Jul 29, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2024 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to…
  • L-SB-0030-24 Jun 21, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2024 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty smell is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is t…
  • L-SB-0030-24 Jun 21, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2024 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty smell is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is t…
  • L-SB-0023-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before…
  • L-SB-0024-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especi…
  • L-SB-0022-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and deckl…
  • L-SB-0021-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Lexus vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to…
  • L-SB-0020-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small…
  • L-SB-0023-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before…
  • L-SB-0024-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especi…
  • L-SB-0022-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and deckl…
  • L-SB-0021-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Lexus vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to…
  • L-SB-0020-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small…
  • LSB004323 Aug 21, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    TSB: The air conditioning dye injection tool kit has been developed to aid in identifying the location of air conditioning refrigerant leaks. Follow the procedures outlined in this service bulletin to aid in locating, inspecting, and repairing refrigerant l…
  • Safety Recall 22 Apr 13, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Lexus Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements 4.13.2022
  • L-SB-0004-22 Feb 24, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    TSB: Some 2005 ? 2022 model year Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty smell is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this servi…
  • Lexus PRO19-02 - Jan 12, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    POL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Lexus. This information must be kept near the point of vehicle sale and be available to any customer that requests i…
  • LTT014513 Nov 2, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Spots in Window Glass - vehicle exterior
  • LTT011613 Feb 27, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Navigation/Multi Info Display Day Mode Operation - Audio/Visaul/Telematics
  • LTT006811A Jul 2, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Suspension - Best Practice for Tire Totation/Nitrogen Filling
  • LTT003110A Jul 25, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Adhesive & Sealant Cross Reference Information/ Engine Hybrid System
  • LTT003110 Jul 25, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Adhesive & Sealant Cross Reference Information/ Engine Hybrid System
  • LTT000110A Aug 6, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Oil Viscosity Applicability and Cfhange Interval Guide
  • LTT000110 Apr 10, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Oil Viscosity Applicability and Cfhange Interval Guide
  • LSB009213B Dec 19, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Windshield Wiper Blade Maintenance and cleaning
  • LSB006013A Sep 12, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    HVAC Odor Maintenance
  • LSB002514B Jul 7, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset
  • LSB002514 Jul 4, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset.
  • LSB002114 Jun 12, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Techstream ECU Flash Reprogramming Procedure.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.