As a luxury carmaker, Lexus makes it their mission to create truly dependable vehicles — and their 2009 RX 350 is no exception. Despite their diligence, problems can still occur, often well after the cars are sold. When that happens, the carmaker sends out technical service bulletins or recalls.
Are there any 2009 Lexus RX 350 recalls on the books?
As of August 2020, no, but a variety of complaints have been filed that resulted in technical service bulletins, including:
- Dash cracking, melting, or getting sticky
- Fluid leaking from the oil cooler
- Oil coming out of the steering boots
Thankfully, throughout this article, we will explore a few of the problems plaguing the 2009 Lexus RX 350. Then, you can use that info to source repairs and keep your car in great condition year after year.
Melting of Dash and Instrument Panel
NHTSA ID: 10132635
With continued exposure to heat and humidity, the 2009 RX 350’s dash can start to feel sticky, and then even melt or crack apart. After receiving numerous complaints about this issue, Lexus decided to extend their warranty coverage for repairs relating to this issue.
The warranty extension remained in effect through May 2017.
During that time, they either reimbursed owners for any repairs they already paid for or scheduled repairs free of charge. Either way, fixing the problem required the full replacement of the dash with one that would not deform or fall apart due to heat and humidity.
Leaks from the Oil Cooler
NHTSA ID: 10132749
Oil from the engine constantly cycles through an oil cooler, which acts as a heat exchanger and actively reduces the temperature of that vital fluid. This can only happen effectively if the oil stays flowing through the system without leaking out.
Unfortunately, on the 2011 RX 350, the oil cooler pipe often allows fluid to leak or seep out around the fittings.
Much like the dash problem, Lexus elected to extend the warranty to ensure all included models could get the needed repairs. The extension lasted four years after it was announced in July 2014. During that time, owners could have the engine oil cooler pipe replaced free of charge to fix the problem in full.
Fluid Leaking Out of the Steering Boots
NHTSA ID: 10050660
Sadly, on the 2009 RX 350, fluid can leak out of the steering boots. This can happen quite often since the seals are prone to going bad. Without the seals keeping the system intact, all the fluid tends to leak out through the boots.
Technicians can easily fix this problem not by putting in new seals, but by replacing the entire steering rack with a new one. With that move, they get rid of the failure-prone part altogether and restore your confidence in the power steering system.
What are the Steps for Handling a 2009 Lexus RX 350 Recall?
Not sure if your 2009 Lexus RX 350 has any pending recalls? Just head on over to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) site to find out. Once there, you can type in the year, make, and model of your vehicle or its VIN to learn what’s due.
To get any open recalls addressed, call 1-800-255-3987 to reach the Lexus customer service team. They will let you know where to take your car for repairs and what to expect along the way.
