2008 Lexus RX problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 86 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 2.2 times the median RX year — the 2008 model ranks #3 of 28 RX years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across brakes (16), engine (16), and other (12), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
86
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
5
Crash-involved
2
Fires reported
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 2008 compare to other RX years?
What are the most common 2008 Lexus RX problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 16 | 19% | ▲ up |
| Brakes | 16 | 19% | — flat |
| Other | 12 | 14% | — flat |
| Body & Structure | 7 | 8% | ▼ down |
| Airbags | 6 | 7% | — flat |
| Electrical System | 6 | 7% | ▼ down |
| Steering | 5 | 6% | — flat |
| Speed Control | 4 | 5% | ▲ up |
| Transmission | 4 | 5% | ▲ up |
| Visibility & Wipers | 3 | 3% | ▲ up |
| Seat Belts | 2 | 2% | ▲ up |
| Lighting | 2 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Driver Assistance | 1 | 1% | — flat |
| Suspension | 1 | 1% | — flat |
| Fuel System | 1 | 1% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“2008 LEXUS RX350 WAS PARKED IN GARAGE WITH ENGINE HOT. ONE MINUTE AFTER THE ENGINE STOPPED, IT CAUGHT ON FIRE AND REQUIRED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TO FINALLY PUT IT OUT. ENGINE COMPARTMENT SO COMPLETELY DESTROYED THAT THE IMMEDIATE CAUSE OF THE FIRE NOT DETECTABLE. CAR IS TOTAL LOSS, GARAGE DAMAGED BUT…”
“WHEN DRIVING I WOULD HAVE ALL THE LIGHTS ON MY DASH COME ON WITH A DINGING SOUND AND WHEN I GO TO PRESS ON MY BRAKES VEHICLE WILL NOT STOP UNLESS I PRESS DOWN HARD ON THE BRAKE THIS IS REALLY DANGEROUS WILL CAUSE A DEADLY CRASH AND TO REPLACE THIS WILL COST 3000 DOLLARS THAT I DO NOT HAVE I REALL…”
“VVT-I RUBBER OIL LINE RUPTURED LEAKING ALL 6 QUARTS OF OIL OUT OF ENGINE, CAUSING CATASTROPHIC ENGINE DAMAGE WHILE DRIVING IN 2008 LEXUS RX350 TOYOTA SHOULD HAVE NEVER PUT A RUBBER HOSE ON AN OIL LINE WITH 80PSI AND THEY SHOULD HAVE ISSUED A RECALL. THE LEXUS DEALER HAS NEVER ADVISED ME OF…”
“AUTOMATIC REAR DOOR DOES NOT OPEN IN HOTTER WEATHER. VEHICLE IS CONSISTENTLY GARAGED. LATCH ON REAR DOOR MELTS AND BLACK GOOEY TAR RUBS OFF ON FINGERS AND HANDS WHEN OPENING DOOR. DEALER SAID TO REPLACE THIS MELTED TAR LIKE DOOR LATCH IS $650. AUTOMATIC DOOR DOES NOT OPEN IN HEAT. LEXUS SAYS THERE…”
“The contact owned a 2008 Lexus RX 350. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH, the contact was crashed into by another vehicle on the driver's side door. The contact stated that the driver's side air bags did not deploy. The driver's side door and the driver's side front wheel and…”
2008 Lexus RX — common questions
Is the 2008 Lexus RX reliable?
NHTSA data argues against it: 86 complaints put the 2008 model at #3 of 28 RX years. It is one of the RX years to avoid.
What are the most common 2008 RX problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are brakes (16 complaints), engine (16 complaints), other (12 complaints).
Does the 2008 Lexus RX have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2008 Lexus RX.
Which Lexus RX years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the RX years to avoid are 2010, 2021, 2008, 2007, 2024, 2023, 2019. The cleanest record among RX years belongs to 2026.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.