The transmission was rebuilt on 11/15/13 at 242,600 miles and has gone out again at 250,379. Many others on the internet have had similar problems with their rx300 transmissions. My brother also has an rx300 and his transmission failed too. The planetary gears are often the problem. There should be a recall by lexus to deal with this defective design.
2001 Lexus RX: complete transmission failure
8 of the 19 complaints about the 2001 Lexus RX describe complete transmission failure.
- owner complaints
- 8
- of this car's complaints
- 42%
- typical mileage
- 101,000
- recalls
- 0
Is there a fix? 3 service bulletins cover this area of the car. See below
Complete transmission failure by model year
What owners say
Transmission failed at a low milage, and the repair cost is more than a car.
Transmission whinning noise at start, and slipping once warmed up. Dealer says the transmission front pump needs replaced, quoted $4247 for lexus remamufactured transmission replacement.
Transmission failed, symptoms were that it would not back up. Transmission locked and the car had to be dragged, wheels not turning onto a tow truck flat bed. Car had 90,000 service including change of transmission fluid and check less than 6,000 miles ago. It had also had its 60,000 service and all important services as well.
I had a transmission failure on my 2001 lexus rx 300 VIN [xxx] while driving. The car suddenly went into nuetral and slowed to a stop on the road putting myself and my family in danger. It's my understanding that this is a known issue and that complaints have already been filed. *js information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6)
2001 lexus rx-300 transmission failed just before 84,000 miles, disabling vehicle on the highway. Warranty did not cover repair.
Premature transmission failure> replaced transmission feb 06 still not shifting after 3 tries serviced the trans - miracle fix? May 06 dirty fluid reported by another shop. Lexus solution service again within 4,500 miles of the trans replacement. No further action taken.
While driving at a slow speed the lexus lurched forward, and then became inoperable. Transmission failed at 86,000 miles. The car was recently serviced for the transmission maintenance at 80,000 miles. Apparently this is a common early failure, and it should be recalled.
Service bulletins that may apply
Related recalls
No recalls on record for this model year.
Questions about the 2001 Lexus RX transmission failure
Is complete transmission failure a common problem on the 2001 Lexus RX?
8 of 19 owner complaints about the 2001 Lexus RX (42%) mention complete transmission failure. The model year with the most reports is 1999.
Is there a recall or service bulletin for this on the 2001 Lexus RX?
There are 0 recalls and 3 service bulletins for the same area of the car. Check them below with your VIN.
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