RX400h

My sister is buying a 2019 ES300h. She and husband took it for a long ride and both love it. The dealership had three - two 2019s, and a 2021 luxury that was close to $50k. Years ago when I had a 1968 Corvette, I asked my insurance agent how much my insurance would be for a new 2001 Corvette ($52.5K out the door). She told me that it would be less costly to insure than my 68. Apparently, the 2001 had far more safety features. Certainly, insurance companies are all about data and risk. Those who live in Los Angeles pay far more than those living in San Diego, all other things being equal.

Les, I suggest that you shop around for a different insurance company.

If they in fact did a full inspection, then it had to be the fault of the transport guy, as Chuck mentioned. I think I would also look in the owner's manual which may include advice about transporting the vehicle. There is a Bureau of Automotive Repair in California. You should be able to ask someone there if it is possible that an incorrectly loaded NX on a transport vehicle can cause differential damage. Here's some potentially relevant information: Rear differential damaged by towing - Maintenance/Repairs - Car Talk Community According to one person, the transportation person should document the method of towing/transporting the vehicle.

Yes, and that LC500h transmission is amazing, as well. That being said, I am also a fan of Mazda's 6-speed auto transmission and related technology. That transmission is bulletproof and very intuitive. We live on a hill, and when I back out of the driveway and coast down that hill, the transmission holds the gear that allows me to not have to use the brakes. And when I let off the gas while exiting the highway, after a certain amount of time, the transmission starts downshifting, knowing that I am approaching a stoplight.

It'd also be interesting for mechanical engineering students. For certain, Toyota/Lexus engineers are very bright.

Great video for the technically inclined!

Hello, Ali. Have you thought about taking your vehicle to either a Toyota (likely less expensive) or Lexus dealership? Even if no one else has had this issue here, I think it would be worth getting it checked out.

Thanks, Les. I'll watch it, tomorrow.👍

Susan, did you explain to the service representative who handled your car at the dealership, what you heard when the vehicle was moved? I would verify whether anyone there heard the differential while moving your vehicle. I really doubt the differential would fail while being transported. Early in 2020, Lexus recalled many vehicles to replace a fuel pump. That should not have anything to do with the differential. Perhaps your mother did not take her NX in for this recall. A faulty fuel pump could cause acceleration/drivability issues. That may be what was replaced, recently. I recommend that you do not try to sell this vehicle if the rear differential is bad. I would have the differential replaced, not simply repaired as Chuck warned against. Here's some relevant information. Symptoms of a Bad Rear Differential: Causes and Fixes – Rx Mechanic

If it was transported in an enclosed auto transport truck then it must've been driven in. Consumer Reports indicates that your year of Lexus has much better than average drive systems, as far as reliability goes. Therefore, your issue is a bit puzzling. Regarding Chuck's comments, I am a bit concerned about using a used unit unless it comes with some sort of guarantee. Did the independent mechanic quote you for a new differential? If so, that may be your best bet, considering your vehicle is almost certainly worth more than double the repair cost.

Consumer Reports rates this vehicle as better or much better than average with no indicated issues with its transmission for the last 8 years. Our RX400h is now 17 years old and has never had any issues except for the rear triangular window frame covers coming off.

Was it transported on a flatbed or a tow truck? If it were towed with a tow truck, which end was lifted?

It could be the ECU but I don't think it'd be wise to guess. Perhaps a Lexus mechanic would be better equipped to troubleshoot the issue.

Hello, Bruce. This may help: Lexus LS 460 (XF40) (2007-2012) Fuse Diagram • FuseCheck.com

I use Wix or OEM filters for our RX and Mazda 3. Based upon the test above, Purolator air filters are also good. Now going back many years ago, I have used K&N air filters but stopped, five years ago. I use an AEM Dryflo filter as part of a true cold air intake system in my MX5 but that car gets only 1200 miles on it per year. By the way, congrats on getting your ES350.👍

You may want to watch this comparison:

Apparently, some models had them in 2013 and some did not. Most likely, all of the newer models have them.

Puppy eyes!😉

...looks familiar.

Back in the early 80s, I worked with a drafting checker who was selling his 1970 Toyota Cressida. The owner took excellent care of the car, so I suggested that my mother buy it. The state of Connecticut required cars older than 10 years of age be safety-inspected. They found that the frame rust rendered the car unsafe, and the owner had to scrap it. Since you live in Ohio, it doesn't surprise me that a 23 year-old vehicle has some underbody rust. I used to rinse the underside of my cars to remove the salt and sand during Winter months. Unfortunately, the next morning I had to pour hot water on the door lock in order to allow my key to unlock it. But I agree that an autobody shop should know whether they can make your car safe again.

....all things that could be done by an honest independent repair shop. Yes, it requires taking the time to bring in the vehicle and paying an inspection fee, but you could save many hundreds, if not thousands of dollars.

Welcome to the Lexus forum, Gerald. I suggest That you redirect this post to this forum: Lexus Buy & Sell Area - Lexus Owners Club of North America

I like NGK or Denso Iridium: 2008 LEXUS ES350 3.5L V6 Spark Plug | RockAuto

At that age, knowing the service/maintenance history is crucial to how likely the car will be reliable.

Did you check runout of the rotor?