Is the 2004 Lexus RX reliable?
Yes. The 2004 Lexus RX, known in North America as the RX 330, is generally regarded as a durable luxury SUV. As with any aging vehicle, reliability today depends on how well the car has been maintained and how much wear it has accumulated.
What the 2004 RX is and what it offers
The 2004 model year marked the early phase of the RX 330 generation, which used a 3.3-liter V6 and a five-speed automatic. It offered front- or all-wheel drive, a comfortable interior, and modest seating for a compact luxury SUV. With roughly two decades on the clock, condition varies widely by mileage, previous maintenance, and whether ownership documented service history.
Reliability track record and owner sentiment
Independent reliability rankings for the RX lineage have historically positioned Lexus SUVs near the top for long-term durability. The 2004 RX shares that reputation, with many examples delivering solid reliability when properly maintained. However, owners report that as the vehicle ages, wear items and routine maintenance become more important than the original engineering.
Common reliability concerns for aging RX 330s
- Wear items (brakes, tires, suspension components) become more prominent as mileage increases.
- Cooling system components such as hoses, radiator, and water pump may require inspection or replacement with age.
- Electrical components, including sensors, connectors, and battery/alternator, can show signs of wear on older vehicles.
- Engine oil leaks or seepage from valve cover gaskets can appear in higher-mileage examples if not addressed.
- Transmission behavior: the five-speed automatic is robust when serviced, but neglected ATF or worn seals can lead to shifting quirks.
- Rust and corrosion can affect older frames and body panels, depending on climate and maintenance history.
In essence, a well-maintained 2004 RX that has received timely service and care can still be a dependable SUV, while one with gaps in maintenance is more likely to incur expensive repairs.
Maintenance habits that help reliability
To maximize reliability in an aging RX, follow established maintenance routines that apply to most older Lexus models. The goal is to catch wear early and keep critical systems healthy.
- Stick to regular oil changes with synthetic oil at manufacturer-recommended intervals to protect the engine.
- Follow ATF service guidelines for the transmission; consider a qualified flush or fluid change if history is unclear and the car shows no major symptoms.
- Inspect the cooling system regularly and replace aging hoses, clamps, and the radiator cap; use the recommended coolant blend.
- Check brakes, tires, and suspension components at every major service; replace worn items proactively to avoid cascading issues.
- Replace aged spark plugs and ignition components according to the manual to maintain efficiency and ignition reliability.
- Keep electrical and battery systems in good shape; replace aging batteries and monitor alternator output.
- Review service history for recalls and perform any outstanding campaigns with a dealer or certified shop.
Following these practices can help a 2004 RX stay on the road longer and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
Buying considerations: is a 2004 RX the right used SUV today?
When shopping, weigh these points carefully. The RX's core strengths are its comfortable ride, reliable V6, and proven repairability. Downsides for a 20-year-old vehicle include aging interior materials and electronics, higher maintenance costs for aging components, and potential reliability risk if maintenance has been neglected. Prospective buyers should plan a thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on the engine, transmission, cooling system, suspension, and rust checks, and verify that maintenance was performed on schedule.
- Pros: known for comfort, durability, and resale value in the used-Lexus market; drivetrain is generally robust; parts availability remains strong.
- Cons: aging interior materials and electronics; some repairs can be costly; fuel economy is modest by modern standards.
Dealers and independent shops emphasize that the best candidates are those with complete maintenance records and a clean bill of health from a qualified technician.
Summary
The 2004 Lexus RX can still be a reliable choice for buyers who value comfort and long-term durability, provided it has been well cared for and a rigorous pre-purchase inspection is passed. Its reliability history is solid, but age and maintenance history drive the real-world experience. With careful care, many owners report many years of dependable service from their RX 330.
How many miles does a 2004 Lexus RX last?
You can expect a typical Lexus RX to last around 200,000-250,000 miles, with the high mileage point resting around 200,000 miles and good mileage sitting at 150,000 or more.
What are the common problems with a 2004 Lexus RX330?
Common problems with a 2004 Lexus RX330 include transmission issues like rough or delayed shifting, cracked dashboards and worn window trims, and exhaust system problems such as catalytic converter failure or leaks. Other potential issues include coolant leaks, issues with the power steering pump, and worn-out suspension components like lower control arm bushes.
Engine and mechanical
- Transmission: Delayed shifting, hard shifts, and transmission fluid leaks are frequently reported. A software update may resolve some shifting issues, but solenoid problems or fluid degradation can also be the cause.
- Coolant leaks: Leaks can occur from the intake manifold gasket, the engine block, or the front transfer case in AWD models. A cracked cylinder head is a more serious, potential source of leaks.
- Exhaust: Catalytic converter failure is a common and expensive issue, indicated by a P0430 trouble code. Other problems include exhaust leaks and failing oxygen sensors.
- Power steering: The power steering pump has been known to fail, sometimes more than once.
Exterior and interior
- Trim and molding: The trim around the rear side windows is prone to falling off.
- Dashboards: Cracked dashboards are a known problem in some RX330 models.
- Sunroof: Sunroof motors can fail, leading to it not opening or closing properly.
- Lights: Some owners have reported issues with headlights and a warning light when switching to LED tail lights.
Suspension and brakes
- Suspension: Suspension issues, such as a wobble, can be caused by worn-out components like lower control arm bushes.
- Brakes: Warped brake rotors are a possibility, and the rear brake pads and discs may have a shorter lifespan than expected.
Electrical
- Battery: Batteries may go flat if the vehicle sits for a long period without being driven.
- Wiring: In some cases, rodents may chew on the vehicle's wiring.
What year to stay away from Lexus RX?
While the RX 350 is generally a solid vehicle, a few model years have seen more complaints than others. It's wise to be cautious with the 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 models.
Is the 2004 Lexus RX a good car?
Among the 623 owners who provided feedback on the 2004 Lexus RX for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 95% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and reliability to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.
