2009 Lexus RX Review: A Recommended Year For The Dependable Midsize SUV

Alex Showalter
May 24, 2022

The 2009 Lexus RX lasts over 300,000 miles with some steering rack and dash issues. At $10,206 – 10,572, it’s a great bargain for an entry-level luxury SUV.

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likeFilled The Good
The interior is extremely quiet, technology is excellent for its age and the engine lasts longer than rivals.
dislikeFilled The Bad
There’s no third row of seating available, the suspension is overly soft and performance is lacking.

Is the 2009 Lexus RX a Good Used SUV?

  • Yes, 2009 is a good year. Owner reviews praise the luxury, good handling, and long-lasting engine.
  • Reliability ratings are outstanding. Models from 2008 and newer are all great choices.
  • Performance is average from the V6 engine.
  • The RX is a very safe SUV, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
  • Fuel economy is good, at up to 20 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Ann G
It is built to last, is a fuel efficient car and the design is superb!
It is a very comfortable ride and I like the height of the seats.
accountCircle Sue H
Luxury SUV that is dependable and fun to drive.
I love my Lexus rx-350. It handles well on the road, it looks like a luxury vehicle not just a clunky SUV and the seats are comfortable and heated. The trunk area is very large and I carry things like bikes and drum sets in the back regularly. The back seat fits three people but I wouldn't recommend three adults riding in the back for long distances because it is a little crowded. I have only had to do regular maintenance on the car for the entire time I have owned it. My next car will be another Lexus.
accountCircle Maria M
A luxurious but reliable car
The Lexus RX is not only a luxury car, it is a very reliable car. The car runs quietly and smoothly and I have not had any issues. I would definitely buy it again
accountCircle Dave R
It must have premium gas only!
I've had no complaints at all, great car!
accountCircle Marisol A
Long term relationship with my car.
Rides is very smooth. Love the Lexus reliability not a lot of problems, things do not break down all the time. Love the leather seats and the back support in the driver's seat. Love that the Lexus has a 6 cylinder engine that gets top speed with no shaking.
accountCircle Mike H
Nice ride, pretty good gas mileage and comfortable.
Great ride, lots of room, good navigation system. Expensive to maintain
accountCircle Susa P
The most important thing to know is that it has a Toyota engine... My last one had 341,000 miles before the transmission went.
LOVE that it has a Toyota engine. :-) Love the heated seats, and that it rides great. It's also very quiet to ride in.
accountCircle Linda A
The lexus rx350 A great family vehicle; rides like a car but roomy as an SUV.
This is my second Lexus. They have been the most reliable vehicles I have ever had. My routine maintenance is an oil change every 3, 000 miles. It has needed no other maintenance. I have never had either vehicle overnight at the dealership, they are that reliable.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Edward Michaels
FAILUE OFPARTS TAHT SHOULD NOT FAIL AT 69,000 MILES
NO, I would not recommend a 2009 Lexus RX350. I have 69,200 miles driven, mostly in a large city, faithfully maintained at my Lexus dealer every 5,000 miles/6-months; At 69,200 miles Lexus told me I needed to REPLACE: Both Struts, Both Strut Mounts, CV Joint Boot, Both Control Arms, Water Pump and Power Steering Return Hose. COST is approaching $7,000.00. WHY? WHY? Lexus Service Rep said “AGE” caused the need for these replacements. Really? I can understand Mileage or Driving Conditions or Lack of Regular Service – BUT “AGE”, for these Items? Does anyone have any thoughts?
accountCircle Caitlin C
That it is a hybrid, and good for the environment.
It is a smooth ride, it is a hybrid, therefore good for the environment. Too much technology, too complicated to do at-home work on it.
accountCircle Cassandra P
2009 Lexus road trip vehicle.
My car is 9 years old so it has a few problems. Engine cylinder problems, gas guzzler, but it is comfortable inside. The car takes 15 gallons of gas and in California that is almost $60 every time you want to fill up. The power steering is messed up making it tougher to turn the vehicle. The vehicle has heated seats, GPS, and my favorite feature which is the backup camera.
accountCircle Lindsay S
Very comfortable and reliable
I love my car very much I just would like a newer model. Over the years my car has had no serious issues and has been very reliable. I would absolutely buy another Lexus.
accountCircle Mike R
Expensive to drive and maintain
Nice car, but expensive to own and maintain. It's essentially a luxury edition Toyota 4Runner. I would probably not buy it again.
accountCircle Claudia S
Costly repairs after the vehicle passes 8 years old.
I love my vehicle, but it is older and needs repairs. Very comfortable ride, but with gas prices, i wish i had bought a hybrid.

What Do Critics Say About the Lexus RX?

  • Consumer Reports says the RX is both opulent and practical with perfect owner satisfaction scores.
  • Edmunds gives the RX a 4.5/5 liking the premium cabin, but disliking the floaty handling.
  • Kelley Blue Book users rate the RX 4.7/5 and enjoy the versatility, but don’t like the low towing capacity.

What Common Problems Does the 2009 Lexus RX Have?

Problems are rare on the 2009 Lexus RX, but some that have been mentioned include steering rack leaks, cracked dashes, and water pump leaks.

Steering rack leaks happen on some vehicles at around 70,000 miles. Replacing the steering rack is the best solution to the problem, costing about $1,400.

Cracked dashes are mentioned by owners at around 75,000 miles. Some owners install a dash cover to hide the cracks for about $100, and others replace the dash costing around $1,500.

Leaking water pumps show up on some RX models at around 50,000 miles. Replacing the water pump is a time-consuming process which costs about $800 due to the high labor rates.

How Long Will the 2009 Lexus RX Last?

A well-maintained 2009 Lexus RX can easily last over 300,000 miles, which is twice as long as competitors like the Mercedes M-Class. Regular annual maintenance costs are good for a luxury SUV, at only $527 per year, according to Repair Pal.

Most RX models from 2009 will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace the alternator for $800, door lock actuators costing $450, and the radiator hoses which cost $310.

accountCircle David W

Yes the Lexus seems reliable after 100,00 miles driven with regular maintenance. No major problems such as transmission or engine.

accountCircle Gabi H

Yes, it is. The reliability is part of the reason why I chose this vehicle. As I stated before, I had a 2004 model previously, but just upgraded to the 2009. I have never had a problem with my car.

accountCircle Tracy V

It has been very reliable haven't had any major issues since we had it. Only have had to do normal maintenance.

How Much Is the 2009 Lexus RX Worth?

Blue book values range from $10,206 – 10,572, making the RX about $2,000 more than an Infiniti FX35 or BMW X5. When new, the price range was $37,700 to $39,100. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Lexus RX?

There is only one model of the RX available and it is offered with FWD or AWD. Technology was last updated in 2007, with a complete redesign coming for the 2010 model year with a new infotainment system.

Standard Features Are:

  • 17-inch Aluminum Wheels
  • Leather Seating
  • Wood Trim
  • Power Rear Liftgate
  • Dual-Zone Climate Control
  • 10-Way Power Front Seats
  • 8-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With 6-CD Changer

Optional Upgrades Include:

  • 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
  • Bi-Xenon Headlights
  • In-Dash Navigation System
  • Rearview Camera
  • Adaptive Air Suspension
  • 11-Speaker Mark Levinson Stereo System
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What Engines Come In the Lexus RX?

The only engine offered in the RX is a decently powerful 3.5L V6 with 270 horsepower, which gets up to 20 MPG combined. Performance is okay for its size, taking 7.3 seconds to go 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Lexus RX Come In?

How Big Is the Lexus RX?

The 2008 RX is a midsize luxury SUV, similar in size to the Acura MDX and Lincoln MKX. Passenger room is very good with enough legroom for adults and the reclining second row provides added comfort for people in the backseats.

Cargo space is above average, offering 38.3 cubic feet of room behind the seats, and up to 85 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.

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How Does the Lexus RX Compare to the Competition?

The Lexus GX is another competitor from Lexus costing about $6,000 more. The GX offers significantly better off-road performance, but the RX has more technology. We recommend the RX, but the GX is worth the price if you need the additional off-road capabilities.

The BMW X5 is a popular competitor costing about $2,000 less. Performance and interior materials are better in the X5, but the RX has lower ownership costs. We recommend the RX since they last longer, and are easier to repair.

Ranks #5 Luxury Full Size SUV by Owners

1
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5
2
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4.86
5
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4.54

Do Owners Recommend the Lexus RX?

accountCircle David W

Yes. The 2009 Lexus rx 350 is a reliable vehicle that rides extremely well, gets decent gas mileage, and has appealing interior design.

accountCircle Gabi H

Yes! I just recently upgraded to the 2009 from a 2004 model. I love the space in it and the features in my car. It is the perfect size for my son and I.

accountCircle Tracy V

Yes I like this vehicle haven't had any major issues with it. I was considering getting a newer one in the next few years.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle B Parker on April 12, 2021
Reliability
I would recommend. We have a 2009 Rx with 156,000 miles and have had minimal issues. A water pump around 80,000 was all. Otherwise, regular oil changes and safety inspections. Will likely keep it for another 50K or so...
accountCircle Don P on March 9, 2021
Great automobile, great ride, good looking car.
Lexus rx-350 most dependable car I have ever bought. Going on 10 years now without anything major happening. Been totally dependable. Would advise anyone to buy one. Great and beautiful automobile. In 10 years, have only replace battery, tires and windshield wiper blades.
accountCircle Nicole K on February 22, 2021
Love them SUV..Smooth driving.
Smooth driving, very comfortable,it's a 4 wheel drive have big comfortable seating it is a four door, it have locks on the wheels where no one can steal the tire on the vehicle,the color is blue and I got it for a good price I love driving it. The seat is a gray color.
accountCircle Edward Michaels on February 15, 2021
FAILUE OFPARTS TAHT SHOULD NOT FAIL AT 69,000 MILES
NO, I would not recommend a 2009 Lexus RX350. I have 69,200 miles driven, mostly in a large city, faithfully maintained at my Lexus dealer every 5,000 miles/6-months; At 69,200 miles Lexus told me I needed to REPLACE: Both Struts, Both Strut Mounts, CV Joint Boot, Both Control Arms, Water Pump and Power Steering Return Hose. COST is approaching $7,000.00. WHY? WHY? Lexus Service Rep said “AGE” caused the need for these replacements. Really? I can understand Mileage or Driving Conditions or Lack of Regular Service – BUT “AGE”, for these Items? Does anyone have any thoughts?
accountCircle Debra P on February 15, 2021
Reliable and Comfortable SUV
Have not had any problems. I enjoy that it is a comfortable drive. It has also been reliable and I like the rear power door feature on the key. Would like the feature of opening the rear with a touch of your foot. Also would like a separate space for cell phone.
accountCircle Rachael B on February 11, 2021
Great car! Very luxurious, reliable and classy!
I love our Lexus! We haven't really had a lot of problems with it. Some routine maintenance is all we've had to do to it. The only thing that I really do not like, is that if we do end up having a problem with it, the parts are very expensive, and sometimes it can be hard to find a mechanic that knows how to work on them. Other than that, it is a very luxurious and comfortable car. It had been incredibly reliable for us, and we will definitely consider purchasing another Lexus in the future.
accountCircle Dave S on January 11, 2021
The 2009 Lexus RX 350 is a trustworthy and reliable car that will satisfy you.
The Lexus RX 350 is a very smooth & reliable car. We've had the car for almost 10 years now so we've seen how the car has kept up with of the driving we have done on it. Lexus is known for the smooth ride, and this car has been the same since we got it! The leather interior and wood grain steering wheel add a classy touch to the vehicles aesthetic. The engine is a 3.5 L v6 so lots of power and pretty good gas mileage!
accountCircle Claudia S on December 14, 2020
Costly repairs after the vehicle passes 8 years old.
I love my vehicle, but it is older and needs repairs. Very comfortable ride, but with gas prices, i wish i had bought a hybrid.
accountCircle Jessica J on November 14, 2020
Best family car we could have ever hoped for!
We love out rx! We got the pebble beach addition, it is so sleek. We have a family for 4 and we love taking long drives in our Lexus rx.
accountCircle Michael H on November 6, 2020
We have the special pebble beach edition which came in a special color.
Very reliable since I owned it in 2011, great ride, has a really good GPS system, although it is not user friendly. Great stereo system also. The maintenance can be quite expensive. I always take it to the dealership for repairs. It also has a lot of space in the back.
accountCircle Sherry N on October 21, 2020
Beautiful car with luxury and style.
I like be the height of my vehicle (I am 5'4') it is easy for me to get into, I have good visibility out of my mirrors and windows. I get good gas mileage. I have seat warmers which are nice in the winter! It holds the equipment I need for my job (signs, I sell real estate). It rides comfortably. And it is a stylish looking car.
accountCircle Chana D on September 23, 2020
It is reliable, If it needs repair the dealership is very good and always gives a loaner
Other than parts wearing out it never needs repair. It is reliable. It drives well in the snow and ice. It is orthopedically comfortable for me
accountCircle Kathleen M on September 18, 2020
Buying a used Lexus RX 350
Love it. No problems. Bought it used and have never had a problem. I would highly recommend this car as either a new purchase or a used purchase. I think that it is a very reliable used car purchase and I would not hesitate to buy another used Lexus RX 350 or any other used Lexus
accountCircle Paula R on August 19, 2020
I love the smooth ride. I only regret the model and year because the year following they added lots of features.
It is a very safe car and a smooth ride. It takes a lot of gas but worth it
accountCircle Linda A on August 8, 2020
The lexus rx350 A great family vehicle; rides like a car but roomy as an SUV.
This is my second Lexus. They have been the most reliable vehicles I have ever had. My routine maintenance is an oil change every 3, 000 miles. It has needed no other maintenance. I have never had either vehicle overnight at the dealership, they are that reliable.
accountCircle Michelle M on August 5, 2020
More bang for your buck. Reliable, comfortable and stylish.
My Lexus rx reliable; with the maintenance services they make sure everything is working well. The car is quite comfortable. The styling does not look dated. I can set the seats, mirrors steering etc. That automatically change back to my settings if anyone else drives my car.
accountCircle Mike R on August 4, 2020
Expensive to drive and maintain
Nice car, but expensive to own and maintain. It's essentially a luxury edition Toyota 4Runner. I would probably not buy it again.
accountCircle Laura B on July 11, 2020
Reliable and comfortable SUV.
My car has been very reliable since I bought it. Lexus makes very good vehicles. It is very comfortable, and the drive is smooth. I also rely on Lexus service cat the dealership--also very reliable. I've owned the vehicle for more than 10 years, and it still performs really well.
accountCircle Dave R on June 24, 2020
It must have premium gas only!
I've had no complaints at all, great car!
accountCircle Nancy R on June 10, 2020
Arm rest in the 2009 Lexus rx350 are key.
Love the car nice smooth ride, comfort features inside make it nice. Displays easy to use. Just the right size for a small family. I love the 2009 model the newer models look boring and the newest model looks to futuristic I was going to get a newer one but I decided to keep mine and just did an overhaul. Love this model and the armrest are key!
accountCircle Nikolay B on May 15, 2020
Very reliable. Good looking. Like a friend. Will buy again.
Very comfortable ride. Great leather interior. Poor fuel economy.
accountCircle Sarah M on May 13, 2020
Good mom SUV consider before a van.
The Lexus rx continues to give customers the exact blend of luxury performance and comfort. It has great acceleration and handling and still outshines almost every other SUV in the area of reliability and resale. Its roomy and has advanced safety features.
accountCircle A.J. V on April 7, 2020
It drives very comfortable, little engine noise , it's great to sit higher above traffic.
Most comfortable car I have ever driven. Luxurious interior.
accountCircle Lindsay S on April 1, 2020
Very comfortable and reliable
I love my car very much I just would like a newer model. Over the years my car has had no serious issues and has been very reliable. I would absolutely buy another Lexus.
accountCircle Sue H on March 22, 2020
Luxury SUV that is dependable and fun to drive.
I love my Lexus rx-350. It handles well on the road, it looks like a luxury vehicle not just a clunky SUV and the seats are comfortable and heated. The trunk area is very large and I carry things like bikes and drum sets in the back regularly. The back seat fits three people but I wouldn't recommend three adults riding in the back for long distances because it is a little crowded. I have only had to do regular maintenance on the car for the entire time I have owned it. My next car will be another Lexus.
accountCircle Betty K on March 20, 2020
Sturdy, comfortable car that has proven to be quite dependable.
Very comfortable and sufficient room inside. Easy to drive which is important for a smaller person. Great storage capacity.
accountCircle Robert P on March 9, 2020
Quality care, the is reliable, efficient and it backed by it's brand name.
Comfortable, reliable, rides great, dependable. Great service from the dealership. Name brand product that stands behind it's brand.
accountCircle Caitlin C on March 7, 2020
That it is a hybrid, and good for the environment.
It is a smooth ride, it is a hybrid, therefore good for the environment. Too much technology, too complicated to do at-home work on it.
accountCircle Hanna p on March 6, 2020
It is fun and easy to drive. It also has a sportiness factor to it.
I love the size, dependability, and smoothness of the ride. It is very fun to drive. It is very luxurious, with a great interior as well.
accountCircle Mike J on February 24, 2020
Expensive to keep up. We do have everything don at the Lexus dealer.
Nice ride, heated seats, GPS, stereo. Pretty good gas mileage. Lots of space and even more space if you fold down the backseat.
accountCircle Kris G on February 18, 2020
It is very reliable and handles well in the snowy conditions.
I have no complaints about my vehicle. It is reliable, good on gas, gets me where I need to go and is easy to drive.
accountCircle Denise D on February 16, 2020
Safe, reliable luxury vehicle
My car is extremely reliable. I rarely have any problems or issues. It is very comfortable for long drives and commuting to work. Repairs and basic maintenance have been reasonably priced. Dealerships and mechanics that will work on the car are easy to find. It is very gas efficient for its size. I would purchase again.
accountCircle Bonnie F on February 1, 2020
Lexus - why didn't I design this car?
I love my Lexus! I've never kept a car so long. I have owned a Lexus since they started having SUV models. They are comfortable yet sporty and stylishly recognizable. We've enjoyed taking the car in for checkups because Lexus makes the experience simple and the quality means we're never surprised with expensive repairs. We're about to buy a new Lexus but will keep the 2009 because it still has miles to go!
accountCircle Cheryl A on January 15, 2020
It is extremely solid and reliable.
This is a great car. Very solid. We've had few problems. On top of it, it is extremely reliable and comfortable. It is fully loaded, but a number of the upgrades come as standard equipment.
accountCircle Carole C on January 9, 2020
Lexus makes a very good vehicle. The service from Lexus is amazing.
I am very pleased with my Lexus but have had trouble with the pistons. Two were replaced but I suspect that additional ones will need repair. Also when I take my vehicle for service, I get a loaner which is always a newer Lexus with all the bells and whistles, which of course makes me want a newer one.
accountCircle Ellen F on January 2, 2020
That it is dependable, reliable, good gas mileage.
The lexus rx has really good visibility; it is comfortable for both driver and passengers. This roomy SUV allows me to transport anything I need to. It is reliable, easy to drive and if you maintain it properly, the car has a nice long life.
accountCircle Ann G on January 1, 2020
It is built to last, is a fuel efficient car and the design is superb!
It is a very comfortable ride and I like the height of the seats.
accountCircle Tina H on October 19, 2019
Lexus RX model for year 2009
The turning radius is bigger than normal. Blind spots are bad. I do like the heated seats and the automatic wipers and lights.
accountCircle Laurel B on October 4, 2019
Reliable and fun to drive Lexus rx.
Extremely reliable car. Comfortable to be in for long drives. Great gas mileage. Great features such as heated seats, Sirius radio, keyless start etc.
accountCircle Gary L on September 28, 2019
It is super reliable because it is one of the best cars on the market.
Very comfortable, quiet and reliable with lots of nice features. The gas mileage is very good for this model. Wish it wasn't so dinged up and would like to upgrade to a newer model asap. No complaints.
accountCircle Marisol A on September 15, 2019
Long term relationship with my car.
Rides is very smooth. Love the Lexus reliability not a lot of problems, things do not break down all the time. Love the leather seats and the back support in the driver's seat. Love that the Lexus has a 6 cylinder engine that gets top speed with no shaking.
accountCircle Mollie N on August 23, 2019
Fabulous car for short woman.
This vehicle has had very few problems. The worst being the exhaust pipe. I replace tires and oil but nothing significant. The leather seats are aging.
accountCircle Cassandra P on August 20, 2019
2009 Lexus road trip vehicle.
My car is 9 years old so it has a few problems. Engine cylinder problems, gas guzzler, but it is comfortable inside. The car takes 15 gallons of gas and in California that is almost $60 every time you want to fill up. The power steering is messed up making it tougher to turn the vehicle. The vehicle has heated seats, GPS, and my favorite feature which is the backup camera.
accountCircle Heidi S on August 4, 2019
My Lexus rx 350 is best car ever!
Very reliable, never broke down - 168,000 miles! Very comfortable, all interior features still work - navigator, seat warmers, CD/cassette tape, electric everything! It has had a hard life but it keeps on moving! I will definitely by a Lexus again if my current one ever dies.
accountCircle Quang N on June 12, 2019
It is a Lexus that costed about $30k. It is very comfortable and modern.
My Lexus rx 350 is a very reliable and strong car. I am not sure what year it is in but it has a gray tone. It is very smooth, when you drive it you could almost feel like is not even on. I recommend it because It's a very solid car for the price of 30k.
accountCircle Ann D on June 6, 2019
Very smooth ride comfortable interior easy to get a car seat in and out of for buyers with children. Also large enough trunk space for baby gear
Great car for traveling. For an SUV gets excellent gas mileage. Have not had any performance problems. It is a bit expensive to fix if issues do arise. This is my second lexus and would happily buy a third
accountCircle Samantha Q on May 2, 2019
Premium gas, and horrible gas mileage. Very comfortable to ride in
I love the car, i'll start with dislikes. Hate that it takes premium to fill it up. Wish there was better A/C flow in the back seat. What I like is the pick up power, fold down back seat to make an already spacious trunk bigger. Back window wiper blade and reverse screen. 3 ways to play music, tape, CD (which holds 6) and am/fm
accountCircle Mike H on May 1, 2019
Nice ride, pretty good gas mileage and comfortable.
Great ride, lots of room, good navigation system. Expensive to maintain
accountCircle Nadine W on March 18, 2019
Love the Lexus. Never ages.
It has lots of room. The back seat folds down for carrying large items. The power door is convenient when arms are full. Low enough to load things. The headlights move to show objects at night. It has good horsepower. The navigational feature is perfect. Great stereo sound.
accountCircle Susa P on March 18, 2019
The most important thing to know is that it has a Toyota engine... My last one had 341,000 miles before the transmission went.
LOVE that it has a Toyota engine. :-) Love the heated seats, and that it rides great. It's also very quiet to ride in.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.