2023 Lexus Rz Safety Report

The 2023 Lexus RZ, despite being a relatively new model, has accumulated 10 NHTSA complaints, including 1 crash, with no reported injuries or fatalities. A significant concern is the lack of official NHTSA safety ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A), which makes a comprehensive assessment of its crashworthiness difficult. However, the vehicle has been subject to two recalls, both addressing critical safety functions. The first recall, 'BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION,' affects the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system, where a rearview camera failure can increase the risk of a crash. The second recall, 'VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM,' addresses an inoperative defroster/defogger, which can decrease driver visibility and increase crash risk, directly correlating with a reported complaint about HVAC system failure affecting cabin heating. Complaint patterns reveal several concerning issues. The 'POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' category is the most frequently cited, appearing in multiple complaints. Specific incidents include a catastrophic front right suspension failure at low speed, leading to CV axle separation and loss of steering control, and a sudden rear tire explosion at 45 mph. Other complaints detail issues with charging failures, the vehicle failing to shift out of park, and a loud popping sound followed by stalling at 65 mph. These incidents suggest potential manufacturing or design flaws that could compromise vehicle control and safety. The recall history directly addresses two critical safety systems: rearview visibility and defroster functionality. While these recalls are proactive steps to mitigate risks, the nature of the complaints, particularly those involving sudden mechanical failures like suspension collapse or tire explosion, points to potential underlying quality control issues beyond the scope of the current recalls. The absence of crash test data from NHTSA means that the vehicle's performance in impact scenarios remains unquantified, leaving a gap in the overall safety picture. The combination of critical recalls and diverse, severe complaints warrants careful consideration for potential buyers.

Our recommendation: Given the critical recalls, lack of NHTSA crash test ratings, and reports of severe mechanical failures, potential buyers should proceed with caution, verify all recall repairs are completed, and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection focusing on suspension, tires, and electrical systems.