IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020 Lexus RX (AL20)

A crucial facelift introduced a touchscreen infotainment system, finally addressing the biggest complaint about the AL20 generation, alongside subtle styling tweaks and chassis stiffening.

What changed for 2020

  • •Introduction of a new touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • •Subtle exterior facelift and chassis stiffening for improved handling.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !General wear and tear; reliability remains exceptional.
  • !Minor electronic glitches with the new infotainment integration.
4
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Rear Motor Cable Corrosion ("Cablegate")

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

On AWD hybrid models, the high-voltage cable connector to the rear motor is prone to severe corrosion from road salt and moisture. If it fails, the car may lose AWD capability and display a hybrid system fault.

Est. Repair Cost: £3,000–£5,000
Warning Signs:

Hybrid system warning lights, Loss of AWD functionality, Noisy radio reception (AM band)

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the rear motor cable connector if possible (requires a lift)
  • Ask if the cable has been replaced under the Lexus goodwill program
  • Check for the "clamshell" protective cover often fitted as a fix
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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 2020 Lexus RX (AL20)

  • ✓The 2020-onwards models with the touchscreen are vastly superior to use daily; seek these out if budget allows.
  • ✓Ensure all safety systems, including the advanced radar cruise control, function without error.
20192021–2022
Check a 2020 Lexus RX (AL20) by Registration