IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2018 Lexus RX (AL20)

Lexus finally addressed the need for a seven-seater by introducing the RX L. Featuring a stretched rear body, it offered a third row of seats, though space was tight for adults.

What changed for 2018

  • •Introduction of the RX L, a stretched seven-seat version.
  • •Minor equipment upgrades across the range.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Wear on suspension components, particularly on the heavier RX L models.
  • !Tyre wear on the inner edges.
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Power Tailgate Strut or Spindle Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The motorised tailgate can become slow, jerky, or fail to latch properly as the powered struts and spindle mechanisms wear with age.

Est. Repair Cost: £450–£1,000
Warning Signs:

Tailgate stops part-way, Beeping tailgate warning, Groaning noise as the tailgate opens

What to Inspect:
  • Open and close the tailgate several times from the key and dashboard switch
  • Watch for uneven movement from side to side
  • Check the boot aperture for signs the tailgate has been manually forced shut
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Front Lower Arm Bush Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The RX is heavy, and its front lower-arm bushes can soften or tear, leading to vague steering, inner tyre wear, and a dull thump over poor surfaces.

Est. Repair Cost: £350–£700
Warning Signs:

Clonk from the front suspension, Steering feels loose on motorways, Uneven inner-edge front tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Drive over patchy roads and listen for a dull front-end knock
  • Check the front tyres for feathering on the inside edges
  • Inspect suspension arms for split bushes during the underside check
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Brake Disc and Caliper Corrosion

MinorBrakes

Because the hybrid system handles so much of the slowing, the rear mechanical brakes can corrode and bind if the car mainly does gentle town driving.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£500
Warning Signs:

Squeal or grinding from the rear, Pitted rear discs, MOT advisories for binding or corroded brakes

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the rear discs through the wheels
  • Feel for heat from one rear wheel after a drive
  • Check if the handbrake releases cleanly
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2018 Lexus RX (AL20)

  • On the RX L, test the motorized folding mechanism for the third-row seats to ensure it operates smoothly.
  • Check the rear climate control functions correctly on seven-seat models.
2016–20172019
Check a 2018 Lexus RX (AL20) by Registration