Lexus RX 300

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Comments

  • gonzo7gonzo7 Member Posts: 259
    If my wife told me she put "a little" in, that would translate into about 11 gallons upon interrogation.
  • bcjacob1bcjacob1 Member Posts: 39
    In response to an earlier post that the Lexus Nav system is the best out there, I have to disagree. We have a '01 RX w/ Nav and a '00 Acura TL w/ nav. The Acura system is easier to operate, more user friendly, doesn't obstruct a portion of the screen on the left side, and has separate radio controls - I HATE the radio controls on the RX screen!

    The RX, however, is a much better vehicle.
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    bcjacob1, you'll be happy to know that your comments almost mirror a recent JD Power survey of Nav user satisfaction. Actually the Acura (Alpine based) and Lexus (Denso based) systems scored pretty closely. To me the big difference is that the Lexus supplied database is more complete than the Acura's, from experiments I've run personally.


    Check out the JD Power report here.


    Regards,

    TC

  • pschiffepschiffe Member Posts: 373
    I've used a product called "Bleche-Wite Brake-Dust Buster" from Blue Coral. Spray on - hose off, works well. For a permanent solution consider Kleen Wheels dust shields, I've had them on my '99 RX ever since the beginning when the brake dust problem became a nuisance and recommend them highly. A fraction of the price of chrome wheels, visit:

    http://www.kleenwheels.com


    Pete

  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    Using this product could void your warranty and damage your brakes since it does restrict some airflow over the brakes allowing them to cool efficiently.

    I'm not saying it will absolutely happen, but under hard braking conditions it is definitely possible to warp the rotors due to heat build up.
  • rparis2rparis2 Member Posts: 46
    My son put a few gallons of diesel into a Sable wagon a few years ago. he did not start the engine foir more than a few seconds. We drained the gas from the tank and replaced the fuel filter. We had 0 problems.
  • trmgatrmga Member Posts: 50
    I'm thinking of getting the Stongard Light kit for the front lights on my 2001 RX 300. Has anyone had any experience with the Stongard Light kit. I know the regular Stongard kit should be installed by a professional but Stongard's web site says the light kit can be installed without professional help. Does it work? Does it yellow? (Stongard says it doesn't) Can it be taken off after a few years without leaving residue on the light lens? Any comments/suggstions on this would be appreciated. Also I have a buzz in my right front door speaker when very low notes are played moderately loudly. Will have dealer work on this at 1000 mile check. Anyone had this problem?
  • malhokcmalhokc Member Posts: 83
    For some time, I had been noticing brake squeaks during initial driving (first few blocks) after cold starts. I first thought that this might be due to the moisture. However, it was occuring on dry days as well. After taking it to the dealer, it turned out that the brake clips needed to be installed. It took about 1/2 hr, all under warranty of course.
  • robart27robart27 Member Posts: 2
    Knowing it was an older view I read, the Bridge stone tires were badly rated for poor grip, dry and wet.

    Are there any other tires that come from nexus as a standard tire?

    Is the Bridge stone tire that Bad?

    Thinking hard about RX 300 and Acura MDX.
  • malhokcmalhokc Member Posts: 83
    For some time, I had been noticing brake squeaks during initial driving (first few blocks) after cold starts. I first thought that this might be due to the moisture. However, it was occuring on dry days as well. After taking it to the dealer, it turned out that the brake clips needed to be installed. It took about 1/2 hr, all under warranty of course.
  • downbucketdownbucket Member Posts: 3
    There has been discussion in the past about a "clicking sound" under the front hood when the car stops after driving. My RX300 has this noise. Was there any agreement as to what causes this. Would like to hear any and all ideas. Thanks.
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    Are we talking about the car stopped, engine on, nothing else on in the cabin like radio and fans?
    Only hear the noise inside the car, but not outside of the car?

    You hear a slight, fast clicking noise? If so, this is the fuel injectors clicking on and off. Already had it confirmed at two different dealers, two different lead service techs.
  • silly1040silly1040 Member Posts: 48
    TRMJA

    I received my headlight protection from www.xpel.com they were fairly easy to install, just be patient.

    I'm sure that Stongard also uses the same 3M product, go with the cheaper one.

    I also applied the hood and bumper protection. I like Stongard's cut of the product better then Xpel. Let us know if you decide to install hood protection and how easy it was.
  • wwestwwest Member Posts: 10,706
    I have seen a caution note somewhere about headlight coverings. I think it said something about the potential for overheating and "melting" the plastic parts and/or lens.

    Before you buy the MDX drive an RX300 with HID on a lonely road on a dark night. The MDX does not have HID, VSC, or Trac....

    Maybe next year...
  • rparis2rparis2 Member Posts: 46
    I own an
    ES s 300 and in a few hours will own my RX. I think the car should definitely have 2 angle adjustable front map lights. When I am driving and my wife puts on the front light at night, I find it very difficult to drive. Another vehicle I own has 2 adjustable lights; one for the passenger and one for the driver which makes night driver much easier. Do others find this as big an annoyance as I do?
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    "Before you buy the MDX drive an RX300 with HID on a lonely road on a dark night. The MDX does not have HID, VSC, or Trac...."

    Not to mention "true" ground clearance (if that matters to you). I was driving the other day and I actually got to see a RX and MDX from behind on the road at the same time. I couldn't believe all the "stuff" that is hanging down under the MDX towards the rear. If you ever run over some road debris, watch out for damage.

    If you need large cargo space, than it's no contest and go for the MDX or something else.

    Remember, when choosing a vehicle prioritize your needs and the choice becomes easier. The RX is one of the top 3 safest SUVs tested, has some of the best active and passive safety systems, the smoothest ride, proven reliability (Consumer Reports, JD Power) and Lexus dealer service is generally superior to Acura and even MB in some cases (check the MB discussions, dealers are giving out GM rental cars, yecch!).

    It's your choice, think it through.
  • drew_drew_ Member Posts: 3,382
    "Now with regards to the RX, I'm not sure of where the center of gravity is, but my point is that you can't draw conclusions from ground clearance."

    Here's something interesting. Despite the M-class being taller, it has a lower centre of gravity than the RX300. This is because the frame rails are low, hence improving handling and stability, but not so low as to sacrifice too much ground clearance.


    Drew
    Host
    Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket and Accessories message boards
  • mlevinedcmlevinedc Member Posts: 45
    I am almost the proud owner of a 2001 RX300. I placed an order this past Thursday for a new Indigo/Ivory AWD/Nav and every available accessory except for the Gold Package and Nakamici. Delivery will be the week of 5/1 (by my preference, at the end of my A6q lease). MSRP was 44340 I paid 39877.80 (+tax reg etc). The dealer is Hoffman Lexus of East Hartford CT and Salesperson was Lance Reiser. I bought our Mercedes ML430 from Lance last year when he worked at another store. He is a pleasure to deal with, doesn't bleed much during negotiations and no pressure, nonesense, add-ons etc from the store. My thanks to tonychrys and the others on the list who helped me decide on the RX.
  • wwestwwest Member Posts: 10,706
    Lexus has ignored this problem from the very beginning and frankly I have no idea why. Right after I bought my 92 LS I reported that the passenger "map" light interferes with the driver's night vision. I finally build a foil "mask" installed inside the lens to "shadow" the drivers side of the car.

    I suspect that the 94 Ford aerostar cabin lighting/map light fixture would be an almost perfect solution. Now all I have to do is figure out how to mount it on the ceiling just behind the moonroof opening.
  • silly1040silly1040 Member Posts: 48
    WWEST, thanks for the information. I installed my light covers in October and they haven't had a chance to enjoy our 115 degree summers out here in Las Vegas yet. I will let everyone here know first thing if any problems develop.
  • downbucketdownbucket Member Posts: 3
    The "clicking noise" I have with car is when after driving and all parts shut down, lasts for
    several minutes before it stops. Very pronounced.
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    After the engine is off? Sure it isn't just the normal expansion and contraction of the muffeler and other metal parts? I had this type of noise in every car I've ever owned.

    If it's not that, then I'm out of ideas. But a Lexus tech would surely know what it is if it's that audible. Let us know what you find out.
  • jeffmust2jeffmust2 Member Posts: 811
    Have you tried having the passenger use the visor vanity light instead of the map light? True, it's not as bright but it might be sufficient.

    I agree, a $40K vehicle should have twin map lights that swivel so the driver is not disturbed. Lexus can add little motors to control the swivel action and charge another $395 for a safety feature.

    Or you can buy a $1.99 compact flashlight and move on.
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    http://www.adcritic.com/content/lexus-rx-300-rough-ride.html
  • avery1avery1 Member Posts: 373
    Could also use some very focused reading lights for the backseat customers. My kids like to read at night on long trips.
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    http://www.consumerreports.org/news/AutoHub/Reports/01AH20.html


    For like the third year in a row(?), the Lexus Rx300 is Consumer Reports best midsize SUV. Gee, I haven't seen any Lexus pretenders win any awards or major endorsements. You get what you pay for apparently.


    Enjoy the ride!

  • ststephen0ststephen0 Member Posts: 37
    Anyone have the gold pkg. on the 2001 White RX300. I had it on my 2000 (which had a more golden tint to the paint) and it looked great. Just curious if anyone put the gold pkg on their 2001 White Crystal...would love to see photos.

    one other and probably insignificant observation between 2000 and 2001......the headrests on my 2001 are noticably lighter weight than those on my 2000.....have no idea why they changed the headrest interior material...any guesses ?
  • ejwintejwint Member Posts: 9
    This is a reiteration of several previous posts about a clicking sound, like a relais cycling, in the left front area of the car at higher speeds. An earlier note refers to a fender clip, without further details or follow-up. This is an annoying problem, and any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
  • harryrogers1harryrogers1 Member Posts: 40
    I like the Flags by the names. I assume it comes from the profile where we put our location. I'm really just curious to see if the Union Jack comes up by mine.

    Harry
  • harryrogers1harryrogers1 Member Posts: 40
    I thought you might like to see my first SUV. Its a 1947 Bradford Jowett. 800cc horizontally opposed twin cylinder engine. 0 to 60 in a fortnight. 45 mpg.


    http://www.btinternet.com/~harryrogers/bradford.jpg


    It had a wooden floor and it was going a bit rotten around the edges. It had toadstools growing on it. Great fun though.


    The pic of my wife running by it was taken in 1960 we had been married one year.


    Harry

  • rparis2rparis2 Member Posts: 46
    I picked up my RX yesterday--two questions.
    1) When I put the key in the ignition I hear a sound from the engine that sounds like an am radio radio when it is not on a stations; sounds like something is being activated. Does anyone know what this is?
    2) The trim on the front of my garage is rounded so the center of the entrance is a bit higher than the sides. The antenna hits the trim. does anyone know if there is a way to limit the height of the antenna so it will "rise" about 6 inches less. If so does this interfere with reception?

    My 1993 Mercury wagon had two adjustable map lights that could be swiveled. Could not have cost very much. It is a shame to add aluminum foil to the Lexus' map lights. I wrote Lexus about this, but in their reply they did to have much to say.

    Thanks
  • rparis2rparis2 Member Posts: 46
    What light covers did you install?
  • cas5cas5 Member Posts: 8
    I have read several discussions regarding the new X. Does anyone know if it will simply have a 3rd row seat and different tires, etc..., or will it be a completely different looking vehicle?
  • mvs1mvs1 Member Posts: 462
    #2) I have a similar problem with my garage. Simply turn the radio off or switch to CD and the antenna will completely lower. Adjusting the height of your antenna if possible could effect reception.
  • gonzo7gonzo7 Member Posts: 259
    Tony- I did not want to post this "you know where"
    but... besides my Golden Pearl RX 300 I have a Solar Yellow Xterra and am eyeing a yellow Corvette. So there.
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    Hey, I didn't know and no offense meant, and afterall it was just my subjective opinion... which my wife reminds me is wrong all the time. And we all know she is always right ;-)


    But why anyone would want a you-know-what is still beyond me image

  • gambiamangambiaman Member Posts: 131
    I have read several posts concerning gas mileage and claims that gas mileage would improve by using 93 octane vs. 89 octane. I traded my 99 FWD for an 01 FWD in Nov/00 and have kept track of all gas used since it was purchased. Results are: 3455 miles using 89 octane yielded 21.29 mpg; 2750 miles using 93 octane yielded 21.41 mpg. Both sets were mixed city/hwy with one long trip (~1000 mi) for each. No noticeable change in performance using either grade. The slightly improved mileage using 93 vs. 89 does not justify the additional cost and is such a small difference that it may be attributed the additional mileage on vehicle. I created an Excel spread sheet that would calculate tank and overall mpg when I entered data so was easy to determine mpg.
    Yes, I am an engineer and computer nerd.
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    "Yes, I am an engineer and computer nerd."

    Welcome to the club!
  • adpcsadpcs Member Posts: 59
    Well, I have had my '01 2WD RX for about 1 month now, and have logged 1300 miles. I think the ride and the handling is much better than my previous '99 RX...However, I do have some observations and questions, and wanted to hear other folks opinions...
    I am talking specifically about the NAV equipped models...
    1. How do you adjust the brightness and contrast of the NAV screen with the headlights on and off. Its bright during the day, which is good, but then at night, it is way too bright, and needs to be dimmed. How do I do this so it happens automatically? The owners manual mentions this, but goes into no detail.
    2. What the heck is the 'msg' button for the stereo?
    3. What happened to the decent trip computer from the models w/o NAV? What is the point of having miles since refueling??? What is the trip odometer used for? Instead of that, they should have it calculate how many miles are remaining...
    Where did the elapsed time go? That was a handy feature. I also think they should integrate into the screen if a door has been left open, and which one, etc. (my parents '89 New Yorker did this!)
    4. What do you guys think about multiple DVD's. For example, I don't travel that much, so why not have a VERY detailed DVD for each region. Then, when you want to travel, just pop in the original DVD. An example of this is, that you cannot locate stores on the NAV system, only restaurants, gas stations, etc. This isn't that big of a deal, but I think it could be nice.
    Lastly, I really think they need to add steering wheel controls for the stereo ( I know we already discussed this, but since I am making suggestions..).
    What else do you guys think needs to be changed for '02 (besides the tires...)

    Sorry for the long post!

    Ashish
  • pdswaypdsway Member Posts: 14
    Sounds like the same problem I have, though very minor...

    It's a sporadic ticking sound that seems to come from the drivers side dash.

    I figured out on my 2000 RX AWD that the noise only occurs when it's cold < 50 degrees AND I'm driving fast AND/OR it's very windy.

    At last service, my dealer test drove (luckily it was cold) and recommended I leave the car with an entire day at my next service so they can "add more insulation to the dash".

    Frankly, not sure if I will do it since they could easily do more harm than good by removing the dash and I rarely even notice the noise anyway.

    PDS
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    "1. How do you adjust the brightness and contrast of the NAV screen with the headlights on and off. Its bright during the day, which is good, but then at night, it is way too bright, and needs to be dimmed. How do I do this so it happens automatically?"

    On the left of the dash is the control for you gauges brightness. Make sure it is not "clicked" all the way up, this will allow the LCD display to auto-dim at night. I find that turning it all the way before it clicks yields the best results.

    "2. What the heck is the 'msg' button for the stereo?"

    Need to read all the manuals, but basically, the stereo in the RX is RDS enabled (Radio Data System), many FM stations will transmit their call letters, emergency notifications over this system. MOstly used for advertising, like "WBAB, New York's home of rock 'n roll", or to classify a listening format, i.e., easy listening, jazz, talk radio, etc. You can't push the MSG button while driving for safety reasons. Let your FM tuner do a RDS search to find all the stations in your area that use this system.

    3. What happened to the decent trip computer from the models w/o NAV? What is the point of having miles since refueling???

    Uhhh, to know how much gas/miles you have left! It's easy: Every time you refuel do a full tank. There are 19.8 gallons in the RX, the trip computer tells you your average MPG since last refuel, simply multiply this times 19.8 and you have your the total miles you can go. Subtract "miles since refueling" from this number and....

    4. What do you guys think about multiple DVD's. For example, I don't travel that much, so why not have a VERY detailed DVD for each region. Then, when you want to travel, just pop in the original DVD. An example of this is, that you cannot locate stores on the NAV system, only restaurants, gas stations, etc. This isn't that big of a deal, but I think it could be nice.

    The system is only as good as the data that is supplied to Denso (the DVD maker). I suspect it will get better with each yearly revision. Believe it or not, the RX Nav is still better/more complete than other systems out there. Is it perfect? Nope.

    Hope this helps,
    TC
  • wwestwwest Member Posts: 10,706
    The Nav system:

    The Nav system screen is a full graphical LCD color display. Were I designing the system I would have started by COMPLETELY replicating the functionality and appearance of the previsous, current, non-Nav system, and I would have likely looked into any consumer complaints about THAT system that could/should be readily corrected within the new design.

    Also, I would keep the "old" (radio, A/C, info) display UP (in the exacting high contrast mode) except when nearing a junction, point of directional change, briefly bringing up the moving map display when the Nav is actually active.

    I find the moving map display distractive so I turn it off. Regardless of mode, if I want any of the other displays UP, I must/take make some action, twiddle a(ny) knob!

    Lexus', "RELENTLESS (PASSIONATE) PURSUIT OF PERFECTION" program doesn't seem to have any Human effects engineers on board.

    Multiple DVD's

    I would be satisfied with the ability to manually change out one CD ({over-lapped}regional HIGH RESOLUTION) for the current ONE (National, but POOR resolution). This would also be an easy way to expand the system to cover Canada and Mexico.
  • gpvsgpvs Member Posts: 214
    At least, the Nav system is DVD based unlike the M Class which is still CD based. Have to change from zone to zone and they cost $$ to have more than your home zone.
  • clee4clee4 Member Posts: 103
    Tony, forgot a few details of the brightness control. Yes, you need to make sure the dash light control is not full clockwise past the click stop. Next, make sure your lights are turned on. Then press the display button located at the bottom of the display. Should be next to the info button and in line with the audio button. Then you should see a "gooey" button at the top of the touch screen that says "day mode". If this is lighted, touch it and it will turn off the day mode. The screen should go to a black background when ever the lights are on. When you are driving with lights on and you want to go back to the day mode screen, the best way is just turn the dash light control full clockwise. This will turn off the black screen, or you can go back through the display button, to the gooey button that way. The lights and the dash control have to be set as I have said in order to see the "gooey" button on the touch screen. You can adjust the brightness and contrast of the screen durning the day by using the display button also.
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    Clee, thanks for filling in the details, wasn't near the Rex and forgot about the details. Knew I could count on you ;-)
  • adpcsadpcs Member Posts: 59
    3. What happened to the decent trip computer from the models w/o NAV? What is the point of having miles since refueling???

    Uhhh, to know how much gas/miles you have left! It's easy: Every time you refuel do a full tank. There are 19.8 gallons in the RX, the trip computer tells you your average MPG since last refuel, simply multiply this times 19.8 and you have your the total miles you can go. Subtract "miles since refueling" from this number and....

    ---------

    I realize that you can do it this way, but why can't they put the info directly into the trip 'computer' so I don't have to calculate it. Besides, what if I don't fill up the tank every time?

    Thanks for the tips on the brightness of the LCD screen. I will try that.

    As far as the 'msg' button is concerned, I think it would be nice if they can tell you whats playing at the time you hit it. Whats the point of seeing "WBAB, New York's home of rock 'n roll" every time you hit the button??

    Please understand I am not complaining, just trying to get some others opinions...

    Ashish
  • markfallenmarkfallen Member Posts: 8
    I've got four stock RX300 tires for anyone who needs them...only 10k on them.

    I'm in the SF/Bay Area; $50 for all four; you pick them up.

    E-mail: markandpatti@yahoo.com

    -Mark
  • sactokensactoken Member Posts: 10
    I would compare the new GMC Envoy/Chevy TrailBlazer with the Lexus RX300 or Acura MDX, but I don't see others making the same comparisons. Am I wrong to put these three in the same league?

    My towing requirements are minimal and I'm not a autophile. I want a nimble, classy and comfortable SUV to keep for a while and it appears to me that these three fit the bill.

    It appears that the 4X2 Envoy-SLT/TB-LT and RX300 can be had by shopping on the internet at about dealer invoice, or $31,000 =/-.

    I'd really appreciate comments from folks who are most familiar with the Lexus...but who are familiar with the GM newcomers. Thanks.
  • tonychrystonychrys Member Posts: 1,310
    I wouldn't put that GM garbage in the same league as the RX300... and I'm a GM owner!

    Look at the "The 2002 Oldsmobile Bravada Brand Specialist Discussion" and read all the posts. When I raised the issues of safety and how GM designers "skimped", the GM rep didn't even have an answer. They've even frozen the discussion because I'm sure she became frustrated with all the negative criticism.

    If you want to save bucks up front, buy a GM product. If you want the best in safety and reliability, buy a RX300, once again Consumer Reports choice for mid-size SUV.
  • silly1040silly1040 Member Posts: 48
    The light covers I used were from www.xpel.com

    At the time I couldn't find any other companies offering the same product so I don't know if they offer the lowest price. Their product is from 3M which is very well known.

    The company was good about refunding me for the rear bumper protection piece. My RX has a rubber piece in the same place for protection.

    The headlight protectors are much thicker then the paint protectors. Using a hair dryer was very helpful with installation.
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