2008 Lexus Rx350 problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 160 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 4.0 times the median Rx350 year — the 2008 model ranks #2 of 20 Rx350 years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list. Complainants reported 12 injuries in total across these filings.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across body & structure (24), other (21), and steering (18), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
160
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
20
Crash-involved
5
Fires reported
12
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 2008 compare to other Rx350 years?
What are the most common 2008 Lexus Rx350 problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body & Structure | 24 | 15% | — flat |
| Other | 21 | 13% | ▲ up |
| Engine | 18 | 11% | ▼ down |
| Steering | 18 | 11% | ▼ down |
| Electrical System | 18 | 11% | ▲ up |
| Speed Control | 15 | 9% | ▼ down |
| Brakes | 12 | 8% | ▲ up |
| Lighting | 10 | 6% | — flat |
| Transmission | 7 | 4% | — flat |
| Airbags | 6 | 4% | ▼ down |
| Visibility & Wipers | 4 | 3% | ▼ down |
| Seat Belts | 3 | 2% | ▲ up |
| Tires & Wheels | 2 | 1% | — flat |
| Suspension | 1 | 1% | ▼ down |
| Climate Control (A/C & Heat) | 1 | 1% | new |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 LEXUS RX350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DASHBOARD WAS CRACKED ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT BELT UNBUCKLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE…”
“SUDDEN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION ISSUE. I WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AT 8 MPH WHEN SUDDENLY MY VEHICLE REVVED UP ON ITS OWN, JUMPED THE CURB, AND CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. LUCKILY, I WAS NOT HURT OR HURT SOMEONE ELSE. THE EDR DOWNLOAD CLEARLY SHOWED MY RPMS JUMPED FROM 400 TO 2,000 IN…”
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 LEXUS RX350. THE CONTACT SMELLED A BURNING ODOR AND STATED THAT THE OIL COOLANT COIL CONTAINED A HOLE, WHICH CAUSED OIL TO LEAK. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN A MANUFACTURER RECALL; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT DID NOT RECEIVE A RECALL NOTIFICATION. THE…”
“I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE WHEN I FELT A QUICK ACCELERATION SURGING MY CAR FORWARD, LOCKING MY STEERING WHEEL CAUSING ME TO PLOW ONTO A PARKED TRUCK. I HAD TO BE TOWED TO REPAIR SHOP. STEERING BECAME DIFFICULT.”
“THE REAR SWITCH ON THE TAILGATE IS MELTED. WHEN YOU PUSH ON THE BUTTON IF FEELS STICKY AND COMES OFF ON YOUR HANDS. TO REPLACE THIS PART IT COST 100.00 FOR THE PART AND 200.00 TO INSTALL. WHEN I LOOKED ONLINE SO MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING THIS ISSUE. SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THE MAKING OF THIS PART. IT…”
2008 Lexus Rx350 — common questions
Is the 2008 Lexus Rx350 reliable?
NHTSA data argues against it: 160 complaints put the 2008 model at #2 of 20 Rx350 years. It is one of the Rx350 years to avoid.
What are the most common 2008 Rx350 problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are body & structure (24 complaints), other (21 complaints), steering (18 complaints).
Does the 2008 Lexus Rx350 have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2008 Lexus Rx350.
Which Lexus Rx350 years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Rx350 years to avoid are 2007, 2008, 2010, 2009, 2016, 2017. The cleanest record among Rx350 years belongs to 2006.
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.