IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2019 Lexus UX

The 2019 launch of the UX marked Lexus's entry into the premium compact crossover segment. It offered bold styling, exceptional build quality, and a highly efficient 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain, making it ideal for urban driving.

What changed for 2019

  • •Debut of the all-new UX compact crossover.
  • •Introduction of the new 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain (UX 250h).

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Tyre wear on the inner edges.
  • !Minor issues with the touchpad infotainment controller.
5
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
3
Minor

All Known Issues

12V Battery Drain

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The most common complaint on UX owner forums; the 12V battery is small and can be drained by the car's connected systems.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£200
Warning Signs:

Weak cranking, "Check Hybrid System" warning caused by low voltage, Keyless entry not working

What to Inspect:
  • Ask if the 12V battery has been replaced with a higher-capacity aftermarket unit (e.g. Yuasa)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

12V Auxiliary Battery Drain

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The UX's small 12V auxiliary battery can be drained by the car's connected systems and telematics, particularly on cars used for short urban trips or left parked for extended periods. A flat 12V battery prevents the car from entering READY mode and triggers false hybrid system warnings.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£200
Warning Signs:

Weak cranking or slow startup, Check Hybrid System warning caused by low voltage, Keyless entry not working

What to Inspect:
  • Ask if the 12V battery has been replaced with a higher-capacity unit
  • Check the battery age and replacement history
  • Test voltage after the car has been parked for 24 hours
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Excessive Road Noise (Run-Flats)

MinorSuspension & Chassis

Models on 18-inch wheels with run-flat tyres can suffer from significant road roar on coarse UK motorways.

Est. Repair Cost: £600 (Set of non-run-flat tyres)
Warning Signs:

Loud humming from tyres, Harsh ride over expansion joints

What to Inspect:
  • Check tyre tread and brand
  • Listen for road noise at 60mph+
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Excessive Road Noise from Run-Flat Tyres

MinorSuspension & Chassis

UX models fitted with 18-inch run-flat tyres can suffer from significant road roar on coarse UK motorways. The stiff sidewalls transmit more tyre noise into the cabin, and the ride can feel harsh over expansion joints and potholes.

Est. Repair Cost: £600 (set of non-run-flat tyres)
Warning Signs:

Loud humming from the tyres at cruising speeds, Harsh ride over expansion joints, Increased cabin noise on motorway surfaces

What to Inspect:
  • Check the tyre tread depth and brand
  • Listen for road noise at 60mph and above
  • Compare ride quality on different road surfaces
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Touchpad Infotainment Controller Frustration (Pre-2023)

MinorInterior & Trim

Pre-2023 UX models use Lexus's touchpad Remote Touch controller rather than a touchscreen. The pad is fiddly and unintuitive to use while driving, with laggy cursor response and multiple steps required for simple actions. The 2023 update introduced a touchscreen, so early cars are affected.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£700
Warning Signs:

Cursor jumps or fails to register on the touchpad, Menu navigation is slow and unintuitive, Inputs are difficult to make while driving

What to Inspect:
  • Test the touchpad controller for lag and unresponsiveness
  • Navigate several menus quickly during the test drive
  • Confirm whether the car is pre- or post-2023 touchscreen update
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2019 Lexus UX

  • Check the boot space carefully; the UX has a notoriously small boot, especially on all-wheel-drive (E-Four) models.
  • Test the touchpad infotainment controller, as it can be frustrating to use.
2020
Check a 2019 Lexus UX by Registration