The 2013 Lexus RX lasts over 300,000 miles with only some minor brake and paint issues. At $19,545 to $21,175, it’s expensive, but worth the money for the best entry-level luxury SUV from 2013.
Is the 2013 Lexus RX a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 9/10 – 2013 is a good year for the Lexus RX. Owner reviews praise the quick engine, smooth ride, and luxurious cabin.
- Interior Quality 9/10 – There are a lot of nice leather and wood options, enough space for 5 adults, and the stereo system has good features for its age.
- Reliability 10/10 – The Lexus RX is the most reliable midsize luxury SUV. We recommend models from 2009–2020, which are all excellent choices.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is good from the standard V6 engine, however it’s not a high performance SUV like some European competitors.
- Safety 7/10 – The 2013 Lexus RX is a safe SUV with an overall rating of 4-stars in crash tests including a 4-star frontal crash test rating, and 5 star side impact score. Optional safety features include adaptive cruise control and pre-collision warning systems.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is good for a luxury SUV at up to 21 MPG, which should get owners about 403 miles of range out of the 19.2 gallon gas tank. Fuel costs are only $5 higher than average at $242 per month.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Lexus RX?
- Consumer Reports says the Lexus RX is a relaxed SUV with a headache-free ownership experience, and very high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Lexus RX a 4.5/5 praising the premium interior materials, but doesn’t like the lack of a third row.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Lexus RX at 4.5/5 and enjoy the high resale value, but owners don’t like that it’s not very sporty.
What Common Problems Does the 2013 Lexus RX Have?
The most common problems found on the 2013 Lexus RX include premature brake wear, chipping paint, and fuel pump issues. Overall, these problems are less severe than other midsize luxury SUVs from 2013, and repair costs are lower as well.
Premature brake wear is the most common complaint, showing up at around 40,000 miles. The pads and rotors tend to wear out faster than other vehicles. Replacing the pads costs roughly $250, and a new set of rotors is another $550.
Chipping paint is another issue reported by owners at roughly 90,000 miles. Paint that is not properly cared for becomes more brittle as it ages and is more susceptible to chipping. The only way to fix the chips is to repaint the affected areas, at a cost of around $1,000 per panel.
Fuel pump issues are rare, and still worth mentioning since some RX models have them at around 110,000 miles. The fuel pump fails as it ages, and has to be replaced. Changing out the pump costs around $450, depending on local labor rates.
There is only one recall, which is better than other luxury SUVs from 2013. The recall covers the brake actuator assembly, which can let the Lexus RX lose traction. Lexus will update the software, which solves the issue.
How Long Will the 2013 Lexus RX Last?
A well-maintained 2013 Lexus RX lasts over 300,000 miles which is over 100,000 miles longer than other luxury competitors like the BMW X5. Regular annual maintenance costs are more affordable than average, at $569 per year, according to Repair Pal.
Since most 2013 Lexus RX models will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace items including the traction control switch for $350, steering knuckle costing $730, and the water pump which costs $880.
I have a regular oil change. Only issues found were the axel, but it does not need to be replaced immediately.
The Lexus rx 350 has proven to be extremely reliable; the only issue I have ever had with it was a dead battery when the lights were left on.
Very reliable, I have had no problems at all with this car, I love everything about it. When you are in this car you cannot hear anything outside!
It is very reliable. It has never broken down on me once. I have not had any problems with it and it drives very smooth. Other than basic maintenance it runs great.
I usually have no problems with it. Nothing major has ever been retired since I purchased it. I have only done minor things like changing fuel filters and things of that nature.
Yes, it's reliable. It has had no problems *knock on wood* so far that I've had it. We have had regular maintenance performed on it. The only thing I would change is the gas mileage.
Is the 2013 Lexus RX a Good Value?
Yes, the 2013 Lexus RX is a great value for a luxury SUV. Blue book prices range from $19,545 to $21,175, making it thousands of dollars more expensive than similarly equipped Infiniti FX37 or Volvo XC90 models. When new, the price range was $39,660 to $47,550. Depreciation is better than average, only losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Lexus RX?
The 2013 Lexus RX is available with either a front-wheel or all-wheel-drive and both models have the same features.
Standard Features Are:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Power Liftgate
- Dual Zone Climate Control
- Automatic Headlights
- Keyless Entry & Ignition
- 9-Speaker Stereo With Bluetooth, USB, and AUX
Optional Upgrades Include:
- Sunroof
- Rearview Camera
- Enform Apps
- Navigation System
- Premium Leather
- 15-Speaker Mark Levinson Stereo
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatic Parallel Parking
What Engines Come In the Lexus RX?
The engine found in the Lexus RX is the average 3.5L V6, which makes 270 horsepower while getting up to 21 MPG. Performance is good, taking about 6.9 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Lexus RX Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Lexus RX?
The 2013 Lexus RX is extremely comfortable with seating for up to 5 passengers. The seats are supportive and made from high-quality upscale materials. It’s similar in size to competitors including the Acura MDX and Mercedes M Class.
Passenger room is great in the first and second row with plenty of room for adults, but there’s no third row available.
How Is the Storage In the Lexus RX?
Cargo space is similar to other midsize SUVs with enough space for 6-7 suitcases behind the backseats, and over 10 with the seats folded flat.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The third generation of the Lexus RX was launched in 2010, and replaced by the fourth generation in 2016.
2011: No major changes.
2012: New exterior appearance package with dark accents.
2013: Exterior refresh, USB connectivity added, and optional sport-tuned suspension.
2014: Home 115v outlet added to back seats, pre-collision warning system, and Siri Eyes Free.
2015: Standard 7-inch display and rearview camera, available LED headlights.
2016: Launch of the fourth generation with a complete redesign.
How Does the Lexus RX Compare to the Competition?
The Lexus RX is the best midsize luxury SUV available if you’re looking for dependability and a high-quality interior.
The Toyota Highlander is a competitor which costs about $2,000 less. Passenger space is a bit better in the Toyota Highlander and it has an optional third row, but the interior of the Lexus RX is significantly nicer. We recommend the Lexus RX, since the $2,000 is worth it for more technology and the upscale interior.
The BMW X5 is another midsize SUV which costs about $4,000 less. Performance is much better in the BMW X5 with its stronger engines, but the Lexus RX has a more upscale interior for the money. We recommend the Lexus RX since it has lower ownership costs and fewer mechanical issues.
Do Owners Recommend the Lexus RX?
Yes. Good for small family. I have 2 boys, ages 10 and 11. Lots of room for them. I drive a lot for work as well. Putting 1,400 miles on my car a month just for work. I have had the car almost a year and I am very happy with it.
Yes, it combines luxury with sport. There is a lot of space for passengers or cargo while maintaining a smaller size that feels like a car instead of an SUV. I have never driven a smoother riding vehicle.
Yes, I love this car so much. I have never been in any vehicle that is so quiet, I cannot hear anything outside the car when I am in it! I have never had a problem.
Yes it is a good vehicle. It is very reliable and is a very affordable luxury SUV. The maintenance is low and affordable also.
It rides really well even at the advanced age, however it is subject to the same type of deterioration that all cars go through eventually.
Yes, it is a reliable vehicle that I love. It's dependable, gets me where I need to go, and has a great stereo and interior build.