2017 Lexus Rx Safety Report
2017 Lexus RX: High complaint volume, particularly for brakes and engine, with no recalls but significant safety-related incidents reported.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Lexus Rx
Reliability Score
The 2017 Lexus Rx receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Lexus Rx
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Lexus Rx:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake Actuator/Booster Failure Reports of "squawk/bark" noise and abnormal pedal feel during braking, with some owners referencing Lexus Customer Support Program 23LE04. |
High | Common | 30000-80000 miles |
| Engine Oil Leak (Timing Cover) Complaints about oil leaks from the engine timing cover gasket, with potential for engine failure if oil empties. Repairs can be very expensive. |
High | Common | 37000-70000 miles |
| Sunroof Spontaneous Explosion Multiple reports of sunroof glass shattering spontaneously while driving, with no apparent external impact. |
Medium | Occasional | 40000-90000 miles |
| Driver'S Side Door Inoperable From Inside Reports of the driver's side interior door handle breaking or failing, preventing the door from being opened from the inside. |
Medium | Occasional | 50000-100000 miles |
| Seat Heater Malfunction (Overheating) Driver and passenger seat heaters are slow to activate, then overheat to a burning temperature. |
Medium | Occasional | 30000-60000 miles |
| Infotainment/Navigation Screen Failure The infotainment screen fails, displaying only the safety message, backup camera, or a single radio station. |
Low | Occasional | 50000-120000 miles |
| Amplifier Failure (No Sound) The audio amplifier fails, resulting in no sound from the infotainment system. This is noted as a common problem with Lexus vehicles. |
Low | Common | 60000-100000 miles |
| Lane Departure Camera Fogging The glass between the windshield and the lane departure camera fogs over time, reducing system sensitivity or causing inoperability, especially in low light. |
Low | Occasional | 40000-80000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Lexus Rx:
Issues related to braking performance, including noises and potential actuator failures.
Complaints related to unintended acceleration or issues with speed control.
Concerns include oil leaks from the timing cover and knocking sounds on startup.
Reports of fuel odors and potential issues with the propulsion system.
Complaints related to the airbag system, though specific details are limited.
Concerns about gasoline fuel system, including odor.
Issues affecting visibility, potentially related to fogging cameras or other components.
Complaints related to the forward collision avoidance system.
Problems with seat functionality, specifically seat heaters.
A significant portion of complaints fall into this category, indicating a need for clearer reporting or a wider range of specific issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Lexus Rx
Is the 2017 Lexus RX safe?
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2017 Lexus RX has a high volume of complaints (100 total), including 21 crashes, 10 injuries, and 1 fatality. While there are no recalls, the number of safety-related incidents warrants caution. The lack of NHTSA crash test ratings prevents a direct assessment of its crashworthiness.
What are common problems with the 2017 Lexus RX?
The most reported issues include problems with the service brakes (12 complaints), vehicle speed control (7 complaints), and engine (7 complaints). Other common concerns involve fuel/propulsion systems, air bags, and fuel systems. Specific known issues include brake actuator failure, engine oil leaks, spontaneous sunroof explosions, and inoperable interior door handles.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Lexus RX?
According to the provided data, there are no open recalls for the 2017 Lexus RX.
What are the safety concerns highlighted by the complaints?
Safety concerns include 21 reported crashes, 10 injuries, and 1 fatality. Specific issues like brake actuator failures, potential unintended acceleration, and spontaneous sunroof explosions are significant safety risks.
How does the 2017 Lexus RX perform in crash tests?
NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2017 Lexus RX are not available (Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover are listed as N/A), so its performance in crash tests cannot be assessed based on this data.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Consider the high complaint volume, particularly for braking and engine issues, and the lack of crash test data. Investigate any potential repairs for known issues like brake actuators and oil leaks before purchasing.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Lexus Rx
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Lexus Rx. The data includes 100 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 21 reported crashes, 10 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.