2021 Lexus Rx Safety Report

2021 Lexus RX Safety Affected by Significant, Long-Delayed Airbag Recall

70Complaints
1Recalls
75/100Reliability Score
9Crash Reports
9Injuries
Most reported components: Air Bags (43)Seat Belts (4)Tires (2)Unknown Or Other (2)Structure,Service Brakes,Forward Collision Avoidance (1)Visibility/Wiper (1)Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (1)Service Brakes (1)Structure,Latches/Locks/Linkages (1)Air Bags,Forward Collision Avoidance (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Lexus Rx

The 2021 Lexus RX presents a mixed safety picture, heavily influenced by a significant recall concerning the occupant classification system for the airbags. While the total complaint count of 70 is moderate, the breakdown reveals 9 crashes, 9 injuries, and 0 fatalities, indicating that while incidents occur, severe outcomes are not prevalent in the reported data. The most concerning pattern in complaints relates to the AIR BAGS component, with 43 out of 70 complaints directly referencing this system, often tied to the ongoing recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000). Many owners report receiving recall notices but facing extended delays in part availability for the necessary repair, leading to significant owner frustration and potential safety concerns. Other reported issues are less frequent, including problems with seat belts, tires, service brakes, visibility/wipers, and electrical systems. Notably, NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2021 model year are not available, making a direct comparison of its crashworthiness based on official ratings impossible. The primary safety concern revolves around the unresolved airbag recall, which impacts a substantial number of vehicles and has a direct bearing on occupant protection.

Reliability Score

The 2021 Lexus Rx receives a reliability score of 75 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

Known Issues for the 2021 Lexus Rx

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Lexus Rx:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Air Bag Occupant Classification System Recall
NHTSA Campaign Number 23V865000 affects the occupant classification system, potentially preventing the passenger airbag from deploying. Many owners report long delays in obtaining parts for this critical safety recall.
High Common N/A miles
Tire Failure
One complaint details a tire failure at highway speeds, highlighting a potential risk if tire integrity is compromised.
High Rare N/A miles
Hvac Condensate Drain Failure
A Technical Service Bulletin (L-SB-0020-21) addresses HVAC condensate drain blockage leading to mold contamination.
Low Occasional 19000+ miles
Front Wiper Motor Failure
Reports indicate the front wiper motor can fail, requiring replacement, sometimes outside of warranty.
Medium Occasional 52000 miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Lexus Rx:

Air Bags 61% of complaints

The vast majority of complaints are related to the airbag system, primarily due to the ongoing recall (NHTSA Campaign 23V865000) and issues with part availability for repairs.

Seat Belts 6% of complaints

A small number of complaints mention issues related to seat belts, including warning lights.

Tires 3% of complaints

A few complaints relate to tire issues, including one instance of a tire failure at highway speed.

Service Brakes 1% of complaints

Isolated complaints regarding brake performance, including failure to stop when expected.

Visibility/Wiper 1% of complaints

Complaints related to the wiper system, specifically the wiper motor.

Electrical System 1% of complaints

One complaint mentions an issue with the electrical system, often in conjunction with other warnings.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Lexus Rx

Is the 2021 Lexus RX safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Lexus RX has a significant safety recall concerning the airbag system (NHTSA Campaign 23V865000) that has experienced prolonged delays in remedy. While crash data shows 9 injuries and 0 deaths from 70 complaints, the unresolved airbag recall is a primary safety concern.

What are common problems with the 2021 Lexus RX?

The most reported issues are related to the AIR BAGS system, largely due to a recall where parts for repair have been unavailable for an extended period. Other less common issues include seat belts, tires, service brakes, and wiper systems.

What is the status of the 2021 Lexus RX airbag recall?

NHTSA Campaign 23V865000 addresses the occupant classification system. Many owners have reported receiving recall notices but are unable to get the repair done due to a lack of available parts, with some waiting over two years.

Are there any reported crashes or injuries for the 2021 Lexus RX?

Yes, the NHTSA data indicates 9 crashes and 9 injuries reported for the 2021 Lexus RX among the 70 total complaints. There are no reported fatalities.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Lexus RX?

NHTSA has not provided overall, frontal, side, or rollover safety ratings for the 2021 Lexus RX.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Consider the significant and long-delayed airbag recall; ensure any potential purchase has had this critical safety issue addressed. Research current part availability for recall 23V865000 before purchasing.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Lexus Rx

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Lexus Rx. The data includes 70 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 9 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments 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.