MotorDeets

Lexus RX330 problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every RX330 from 2004 to 2011: 526 owner complaints and 10 recalls across 6 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2004 (287), 2005 (165), 2006 (67). Best fuel economy: 20 mpg combined (2006).

Lexus RX330
Photo: RL GNZLZ · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Transmission & drivetrain90
Body & structure83
Brakes (hydraulic)66
Exterior lights63
Speed control / throttle60
Steering46
Other / unknown43
Airbags40

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
2004528720
2005316520
200616720
200715–
200901–
201101–

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Lexus RX330.

eManualOnline Download (PDF), keep forever

Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.

Most $25–$78, one-time
Check Lexus RX330 manual
Mitchell 1 DIY Online access, factory-level data

Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yr
Check Lexus RX330 manual
ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yr
Check Lexus RX330 manual
Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
Check Lexus RX330 manual

Heads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure

FAQ

What is the worst year for the Lexus RX330?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2004 (287), 2005 (165), 2006 (67).

How many recalls has the Lexus RX330 had?

Across 2004–2011, NHTSA lists 10 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).