I just found a one owner, 2005 RX 330 with 54,000 miles, an old widow kept it garaged, only driving to the grocery and some errands each week the entire time she had it. She bought a New one, 2020 model. Said she really didn’t need it, she was actually overly sentimental on letting the 2005 go. From everything I have heard about these cars, I feel totally blessed to be the one to buy it. It’s absolutely spotless. Not a mark on it, all maintenance records kept neat and in a folder. I wish you guys could see this thing. I paid $9,000, yes, it’s 15 years old, with only 54,000 original miles, but it’s EXTREMELY clean and serviced religiously. -Stephen, Ohio
That's a fantastic find, and should certainly serve you well for a long time. $9000 is a great deal. In my area, a lot of 2nd gen RX350s with triple the miles are going for around that price. If you haven't yet, I'd check on the timing belt as it's up there in age if it hasn't been replaced yet. Otherwise, congrats on the purchase!
I got my Lexus rx 330 2004 last week for 4k 104k miles. 1st owner. It runs like a champ. Happy on my purchase. Like I won a lottery. 103k they changed the timing belt.
Ugh this makes me want another RX so badly. I was devastated when we got rid of our 02 RX300, I legitimately cried. that car brought me from middle school to college in our family and after 347k miles, she had enough. Do you use premium gas in this?
Zach Travers I can’t blame you at all! This thing has actually done the same for me. We’re coming up on 10 years of ownership this June. 347k is very impressive still! Too bad it couldn’t make it to 350k. I actually just use regular gas!
Zach Travers oh that is impressive! I remember hearing the RX300s had weaker transmissions. Yeah, that’s my logic. I’m sure it’d make a bit more power, but to make up the cost difference for premium, it’d have to get like 6 mpg better. Can’t see that happening haha! So far I don’t think it’s hurt us over 175k miles, but I don’t blame you for sticking with what’s recommended.
@@michaelwoyahn2238 Yeah, the U140 tranny was designed for the Camry platform, and since the RX is significantly heavier, plus it has AWD, and it has a tow rating, it arguably wasn't robust enough for the Highlander/RX platform. But we never had a single issue with ours!
Its been awhile since we had the timing belt done, but I think those we're all done! It's definitely better to do some preventative maintenance while the car is apart if you can.
Just bought one with 187 thousand miles for 6300 everything looks great inside and out just going to have a new battery installation tomorrow when you crank it belt squeaks a little probably spray some WD-40 on it but drives smooth I love how it feels
I had a 2004 Lexus RX330 with beige interior and exterior and it held up really nicely. Built like a tank. Very comfortable seats and rides smooth. It had to get a new torque strut, steering rack, alternator, and other old age related repairs that even the most reliable cars of the era had to go through. Also the stock stereo is actually better than my 2015 Toyota Camry stock stereo which is pretty funny for being an older car because the Lexus has speakers with much stiffer cones and larger voice coils and better tweeters. The RX330 lived in Texas all his life. He was my baby boy and I loved him. Briefly had an M35X but some texting driver smashed the rear corner to smithereens totaling it. It was nice a nice upgrade since I want to switch to a sedan due.
Glad to hear your RX treated you well! Mine has definitely needed some attention that I think is typical of older cars, too. Interesting to hear about the stereo! I've always thought it was pretty good, and one of my friends recently commented on it, so I'm glad to hear it confirmed by someone else haha! I'm sorry to hear your M35x got totaled!
I just purchased an 07 RX350. With 236k miles. It had a P0456 but I think it’s fixed with the new gas cap I put in. Got it for $4800. Power steering pump was replaced with aftermarket, and there’s an oil leak. The left axle shaft boot is either leaking or torn. The rear left door actuator is grinding at me when I unlock the door. There’s also an airbag light, and there’s an Open in Side Squib (LH) Circuit. Should I be worried about this? Car drives great and I think I got a good deal with these kind of problems.
I'm not sure about the circuit, but I'd definitely get the airbags checked! I don't think they're deploy at all if you got in an accident. Otherwise keep an eye on the fluid levels and I think you should be able to get by.
Michael Woyahn Great, thanks. I’ll be doing an overview of the car soon, if you want to check it out. What’s funny is that I also have the 1st gen RX too lol
Great video. Thank you. I am in the market for a used Lexus R330. Here in CA the ones in my budget are all around 130k miles on them. I am looking for a FWD. Should I take the plunge? Is there anything I should be looking for as this is going to be our first car and only drive for sometime. 30 miles a day.
Thanks for watching! I'd say go for it! They're very well built cars. Mine still has no rattles at 272,000 miles! It's hard to find such a good balance of luxury and reliability. I'd definitely make sure to get one that has had its timing belt changed. Otherwise, keep an eye out for a leaky power steering rack since that's a pretty common issue or get one that's had the rack replaced. In CA, you should keep an eye on the dashboard. The soft-touch material likes to crack, which is only an aesthetic issue, but look for it if it'll bother you! I also wrote a buyer's guide here if you're interested in more details between the model years: oppositelock.kinja.com/2004-2009-lexus-rx330-rx350-buyers-guide-1828762309
@@michaelwoyahn2238 Thanks Michael. I really appreciate your elaborate response. Lets suppose say I purchase this one RX330 I am looking at. 160k on the odo and 3 previous owner. The price is 5200 and I am comfortable with it. I'll be paying all cash as I am new to the country and don't like debt. My only concern is I should be stranded and foot heavy repair bills. The one that I am looking at has 160k on the odo asking 5200. Has 3 previous owners. Is that a thing I can play with the dealer? I'll be paying all in cash as I am new to the country and have no credit. Also I don't like debt. Worst case worst scenarios like u said how much will it cost to replace the rack or the timing belt. Like I said this will be out only car for sometime to come. We will not be doing more than 6-7k miles an year. The car will be parked in a designated carpot in the apartment. My only concern is I should not get stranded or foot expensive repair bills. The reason for me to ask you this is, similar year or a couple year newer Crv or RAV 4 are at almost similar prices. I thought people stay away from luxury marque brands as they are expensive to buy and maintain even used. Edit - I read your blog and got am idea on the expenses. Will looking out for a 06 model as it has the power tailgate and passenger seat adjustments too. Thank you again.
@@physiovinayak Sorry for the delay in my response! The RX shares a lot of parts with other Toyotas, so repairs tend to be cheaper than other luxury marques. You can definitely try to get the price lower from the dealer- they tend to expect people to negotiate prices. My car has actually sat out in a designated parking spot at an apartment like yours would be doing for the last 3.5 years and it's held up pretty well! I've put on over 20k miles this year and had a couple of issues (thermostat and the neutral safety switch, both about $400 fixes), but this was all past 250k miles. The most expensive repair we had was replacing a catalytic converter, which was about $1300. Otherwise, the power steering rack and timing belts are both about $800. I think it'd be unlikely you'd have a repair higher than these, and most of these repairs you limp the car along for a bit, or you will know in advance, so you should have some time to save up some money if you do run into issues. An RX with 160k miles will need another timing belt in around 22k miles, but that's still a few years out based on your mileage. My car is still really solid even with the "abuse" of putting on over 22k miles in a year and sitting outside, so I think an RX should treat you well with the lower miles you'd put on it! I think it'd be a safe bet if it was taken care of. 2006 avoids some of the earlier model year issues too. Good luck with the car search, and let me know if you have any other questions!
@@michaelwoyahn2238 Thanks again mate. I was looking to get a 2007 rx350. I read your blog and the 2007 onwards model years have a timing chain instead of a belt. One less problem to tackle. This one was manufactured in japan as well. Also this year they also had lumbar supports for front passenger..Will be a good thing to have for my wife who is a spinal fracture survivor and has hardware in her spine. Are the Lexus RX 330 and the 350 interference engines?
physiovinayak You’re welcome! You are correct, 2007 and newer all have a timing chain. The lumbar adjustment definitely sounds like a welcome addition in your case! I believe that both the 3.3 and 3.5 V6 engines are interference engines.
Wow that is good I had to change my alternator starter and battery around 220000 bit I swear when they replaced my dash they did something electrical because I keep going through batteries on their dime
CarbonKLR I think it would! It’s at 273k miles now. It’ll need another timing belt and some seals refreshed before then, so it most likely won’t get there with me owning it.
CarbonKLR we did the first timing belt at around 100k and the second one around 190k. I think both were just preventative. I don’t remember seeing signs of wear!
@@AlanTrades I think the recommended interval is every 90k, but we've pushed it and been okay. I think if the belt is fraying or starting to appear cracked, it's time to replace it.
Check your rear diff breather plug, mine was completely corroded and stuck shut, once I changed that the seal on the diff weeps oil significantly less. Diff plug is like $8 from Lexus and would give you more time to replace seals.
I ended up getting rid of it this March with over 286,000 miles on it. It had some smaller issues like leaky seals, but it was still kicking! Was just time to move on
Matt Anzalone Hi there! Unfortunately there’s no auxiliary port. If you have a cassette deck, you can do what I do and use a cassette to aux adapter with a Bluetooth adapter to connect my phone. I can link what I use if you’d like, I’m very happy with the sound quality. Otherwise, there are FM transmitters or kits you can install to add an aux input, but you have to remove the radio to install them. Definitely an annoying omission in this car.
Michael Woyahn I’d very much appreciate it if you could send the link, thank you. I’m thinking of buying one with 125,000 miles for around $5500. Any advice?
@@manzalone Sure thing! It looks like the exact cassette adapter I purchased was discontinued, but this one looks to be the same. Sometimes they are finicky, so definitely keep the box in case you have to return it! www.amazon.com/Monster-MBL-800-CAS-ADPT-Performance/dp/B06ZZTP3RH/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=cassette+adapter+monster&qid=1599084811&s=electronics&sr=1-4 This is the Bluetooth adapter. I really like this since my phone automatically connects every time I start the car: www.amazon.com/Monster-MBL-800-CAS-ADPT-Performance/dp/B06ZZTP3RH/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=cassette+adapter+monster&qid=1599084811&s=electronics&sr=1-4 That seems like a really good deal for the miles! If it is an RX330, make sure the timing belt was done otherwise that's a pricier service around $800 to replace the water pump with it. Another problem area is the power steering- they tend to leak, though I was able to get away with just a line being replaced on my car vs the whole rack. If it's an older model year, the seals might be getting older and starting to seep, so I'd keep an eye out for damp spots under the car, if you get the chance to look under it! I do have a written buyers guide too, which details a few other things to look out for and differences between model years: oppositelock.kinja.com/2004-2009-lexus-rx330-rx350-buyers-guide-1828762309
Michael Woyahn I think you may have sent the same link for both the Bluetooth adapter and the cassette adapter, but I really do appreciate it! I’m bringing it to a mechanic for a pre-purchase check up. I’ll make sure that he takes a look at those as well as the tires and everything else. Hopefully this car will last me a long time!
@@manzalone You are correct. This should be the link to the bluetooth adapter: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07K2WC7X1/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Always a good call to get a pre-purchase inspection done. Best of luck with the shopping, even if this one doesn't work out! My RX330 is at 282,000 miles and still pretty solid! It's showing its age a bit in some seals that had to get replaced, but I actually just put over 900 miles on it in two days and had no issues! They're about as reliable as you can get for the price and luxury! I will say that my dad did just have the A/C go out on his 2008 RX350 with 185,000 miles on it. I think that was more of a fluke than anything because (knock on wood) my RX's A/C still works flawlessly. I guess with that, it is possible to still have bigger maintenance costs come up, but these cars are much less of a gamble than an equivalent German luxury car!
bosco huang We’ve only used regular over the 200,000 miles we’ve had it and had no issues! I think you get a little more power with premium, but I prefer saving the money with regular.
Michael Woyahn ok,as long as not hurting the car,i am gonna put regular for sure to save some bucks. I read online,2006 rx330 suggest to use premium,but while 2005 and early use regular,thats why i dont get it and question it?do you know any reason?
@@boscohuang2886 I'm not entirely sure why, but Toyota tended to switch around their fuel recommendations in the RX. I believe from 2004-2006 premium was "recommended" and from 2007 to 2012, premium was "required". From 2013 on, regular is recommended. My dad has only used regular in his 2008 for around 90,000 miles and had no issues. I think they do this so they can rate the RX as having a couple of HP more than the Highlander. At the end of the day, I am pretty positive the Highlander and RX share the same engine with the same compression ratio, so I think regular should be fine in these cars!
Last question?? Are you to keep it or are you going to give it back to your parents?? I think it’s a great car as long you can afford to take care of it!! The style never changes...the dings and rust are really nothing!! Even if you would need a new/used engine it would be worth it
Greg Kendrick I’m going to keep it at least through college, if not beyond, as long as there are no massive repair costs or accidents! It is only worth about $3,000 so it’d be hard to justify putting more than probably $800 into it. But I’ve put on 8,000 miles since this update with it only needing oil changes so at this point there’s no reason to get rid of it! It’s really been the perfect car for me and I’d love for it to stick around.
Dolapo Odutola Thank you! We did replace one catalytic converter at around 242,000 miles. I am getting an intermittent P0420 code, but it comes up every 2,000 miles or so. No problems with the air conditioner yet!
I'm looking at a 2004rx 330. One owner. Excellent condition. With 220000 miles on it for 5500. Alternator. Power steering pump. Wheel bearings. Brakes. All replaced. Now there is a leak at the valve cover gasket and in the muffler they are going to have repaired before selling. It is a beautiful vehicle. Should I look for one with less miles or take my chances with this?? What's your opinion please? Thanks.
Seems like a lot of the problem areas are addressed! I'd double check when the timing belt was done as well since that can be an expensive service. The radiator is the only common problem area I can think of. Honestly, I am parting ways with my car soon as it's had a few little issues come up over the last year or so after 275,000 miles. It has a persistent check engine light for the catalytic converter and it's had a few leaks and sensors go bad. Most repairs have been around $500 or less so it's not likely to bankrupt you, the repairs just have added up for me and my driving situation changed. However, it is at almost 286,000 miles now and it still starts right up and drives like it did 100,000 miles ago. Apart from the CEL, it's still so solid and everything still works. I think they are super solid cars, it's just at the end of the day, they are 18 years old so they likely won't be perfect.that era), but you'll likely have to pay for some maintenance and repairs as they are older. I've loved my car and took it on three cross country road trips when it had 220,000 miles, 240,000 miles, and 260,000 miles and it performed great each time. Overall, I think I would recommend it. Just want to make sure you know what to potentially expect!
Thanks for the advice! I actually just put white lithium grease on them and they're no longer squeaking, but I'll keep that in mind if the grease doesn't last!
These videos are extremely helpful. Thanks Michael! I am looking to sell my Tundra and get out of a big payment. I was thinking about a Camry, but the Highanlder/RX 330 style just looks so much more useful. And for the same year/mileage/price why not go for a Lexus!
I'm glad you found the videos to be helpful! I will say that the SUV body style is very useful. I've fit five people and a weekend's worth of their luggage in it, and I've used this car to move three times now and I can fit so much stuff in it! On top of that, it is very comfy and the luxury features are really nice, too. I will say that some repairs can be a bit more if they are Lexus specific parts, but that's pretty uncommon. I'm hoping to do an update video soon, but my RX is at 270,000 miles now and the only thing that has gone wrong recently is the parking brake broke I think due to rust. Otherwise, it's still happily rolling along! I've written up a buyer's guide for the 2nd gen RX, which goes a bit more in depth into what to look out for, if you want to check it out: oppositelock.kinja.com/2004-2009-lexus-rx330-rx350-buyers-guide-1828762309
@@michaelwoyahn2238 That buyer's guide is awesome! I'll have to go through it later in more depth. Nice to see some reviews from someone in the snow belt too. Michigan here!
@@bobgunner3086 Thank you! Ah yeah, you know the pain of the rust belt too. Let me know if you have any questions, I'll hopefully be able to answer them!
I see a lot of comments here on getting repairs. That's the thing with used car. You never know what you're getting with and it could cost thousands for repairs. If you could afford a brand new car it's probably better to go that route.
So I'm back. :D my 05 has 170k miles now. I purchased the car from the auction with 130k I think... I don't remember. I did put like 7k into it 🙄🙄🙄🙄, but I did buy it from an auction. However, it's driving like the beast she is. I mean I drive 90 miles to work everyday, and I still hit like 90 miles an hour on highway each way. I'm hoping to trade her in soon for like a 2010 RX 350...But Lexus IS definitely a great brand hands down. My Acura was good too.. But honestly, compared to my Volvo , Audi , and Acura I would rate the Lexus the best.
Glad to see you back! That initial 7k is a tough pill to swallow, but I'm glad it seems like it was worth the investment! It's amazing how well these cars rack up the miles, even when they're getting up there in age. I definitely could see another Lexus in my future when my RX330 calls it quits, so I can't blame ya for considering a 2010 RX!
Owned a 2003 RX300 since new, 217k. Mechanically perfect and still accelerates like new. Most reliable car we have owned, nothing compares.
Just bought one with 193.000 miles for $1500. Great car.
I just found a one owner, 2005 RX 330 with 54,000 miles, an old widow kept it garaged, only driving to the grocery and some errands each week the entire time she had it. She bought a New one, 2020 model. Said she really didn’t need it, she was actually overly sentimental on letting the 2005 go. From everything I have heard about these cars, I feel totally blessed to be the one to buy it. It’s absolutely spotless. Not a mark on it, all maintenance records kept neat and in a folder. I wish you guys could see this thing. I paid $9,000, yes, it’s 15 years old, with only 54,000 original miles, but it’s EXTREMELY clean and serviced religiously. -Stephen, Ohio
That's a fantastic find, and should certainly serve you well for a long time. $9000 is a great deal. In my area, a lot of 2nd gen RX350s with triple the miles are going for around that price. If you haven't yet, I'd check on the timing belt as it's up there in age if it hasn't been replaced yet. Otherwise, congrats on the purchase!
Wow what an eventful few thousand miles! I’m glad it has all worked out and that no one got hurt on that tire change. What a trooper!!💪🏻
Dustin Hart Me too! She’s a tough one!
Love the detail in your conversation. Just bought mine on Friday. 05 119thousand miles.
I got my Lexus rx 330 2004 last week for 4k 104k miles. 1st owner. It runs like a champ. Happy on my purchase. Like I won a lottery. 103k they changed the timing belt.
You wont find a more reliable car than a Lexus.
Ugh this makes me want another RX so badly. I was devastated when we got rid of our 02 RX300, I legitimately cried. that car brought me from middle school to college in our family and after 347k miles, she had enough. Do you use premium gas in this?
Zach Travers I can’t blame you at all! This thing has actually done the same for me. We’re coming up on 10 years of ownership this June. 347k is very impressive still! Too bad it couldn’t make it to 350k. I actually just use regular gas!
Zach Travers oh that is impressive! I remember hearing the RX300s had weaker transmissions.
Yeah, that’s my logic. I’m sure it’d make a bit more power, but to make up the cost difference for premium, it’d have to get like 6 mpg better. Can’t see that happening haha! So far I don’t think it’s hurt us over 175k miles, but I don’t blame you for sticking with what’s recommended.
@@michaelwoyahn2238 Yeah, the U140 tranny was designed for the Camry platform, and since the RX is significantly heavier, plus it has AWD, and it has a tow rating, it arguably wasn't robust enough for the Highlander/RX platform. But we never had a single issue with ours!
I use regular gas as well
Have you changed water pump, idler tensioner, pulley when changing timing belt?
Its been awhile since we had the timing belt done, but I think those we're all done! It's definitely better to do some preventative maintenance while the car is apart if you can.
Just bought one with 187 thousand miles for 6300 everything looks great inside and out just going to have a new battery installation tomorrow when you crank it belt squeaks a little probably spray some WD-40 on it but drives smooth I love how it feels
You’re only a few thousand miles behind my 03 es300! And my thermostat went out in 2017 around 249k
JoshRocks712 interesting they both failed at around the same time!
I just got mine at 216,000 I need to change the thermostat ASAP just to have preventative maintenance on it .
I had a 2004 Lexus RX330 with beige interior and exterior and it held up really nicely. Built like a tank. Very comfortable seats and rides smooth. It had to get a new torque strut, steering rack, alternator, and other old age related repairs that even the most reliable cars of the era had to go through. Also the stock stereo is actually better than my 2015 Toyota Camry stock stereo which is pretty funny for being an older car because the Lexus has speakers with much stiffer cones and larger voice coils and better tweeters. The RX330 lived in Texas all his life. He was my baby boy and I loved him. Briefly had an M35X but some texting driver smashed the rear corner to smithereens totaling it. It was nice a nice upgrade since I want to switch to a sedan due.
Glad to hear your RX treated you well! Mine has definitely needed some attention that I think is typical of older cars, too. Interesting to hear about the stereo! I've always thought it was pretty good, and one of my friends recently commented on it, so I'm glad to hear it confirmed by someone else haha! I'm sorry to hear your M35x got totaled!
I just purchased an 07 RX350. With 236k miles. It had a P0456 but I think it’s fixed with the new gas cap I put in.
Got it for $4800.
Power steering pump was replaced with aftermarket, and there’s an oil leak. The left axle shaft boot is either leaking or torn. The rear left door actuator is grinding at me when I unlock the door.
There’s also an airbag light, and there’s an Open in Side Squib (LH) Circuit.
Should I be worried about this? Car drives great and I think I got a good deal with these kind of problems.
I'm not sure about the circuit, but I'd definitely get the airbags checked! I don't think they're deploy at all if you got in an accident. Otherwise keep an eye on the fluid levels and I think you should be able to get by.
Michael Woyahn Great, thanks. I’ll be doing an overview of the car soon, if you want to check it out.
What’s funny is that I also have the 1st gen RX too lol
@@traav1s Yeah, sounds good! Huh, you've got no shortage of RXes then lol!
Great video. Thank you. I am in the market for a used Lexus R330. Here in CA the ones in my budget are all around 130k miles on them. I am looking for a FWD. Should I take the plunge? Is there anything I should be looking for as this is going to be our first car and only drive for sometime. 30 miles a day.
Thanks for watching! I'd say go for it! They're very well built cars. Mine still has no rattles at 272,000 miles! It's hard to find such a good balance of luxury and reliability.
I'd definitely make sure to get one that has had its timing belt changed. Otherwise, keep an eye out for a leaky power steering rack since that's a pretty common issue or get one that's had the rack replaced. In CA, you should keep an eye on the dashboard. The soft-touch material likes to crack, which is only an aesthetic issue, but look for it if it'll bother you! I also wrote a buyer's guide here if you're interested in more details between the model years: oppositelock.kinja.com/2004-2009-lexus-rx330-rx350-buyers-guide-1828762309
@@michaelwoyahn2238 Thanks Michael. I really appreciate your elaborate response. Lets suppose say I purchase this one RX330 I am looking at. 160k on the odo and 3 previous owner. The price is 5200 and I am comfortable with it. I'll be paying all cash as I am new to the country and don't like debt. My only concern is I should be stranded and foot heavy repair bills. The one that I am looking at has 160k on the odo asking 5200. Has 3 previous owners. Is that a thing I can play with the dealer? I'll be paying all in cash as I am new to the country and have no credit. Also I don't like debt. Worst case worst scenarios like u said how much will it cost to replace the rack or the timing belt. Like I said this will be out only car for sometime to come. We will not be doing more than 6-7k miles an year. The car will be parked in a designated carpot in the apartment. My only concern is I should not get stranded or foot expensive repair bills. The reason for me to ask you this is, similar year or a couple year newer Crv or RAV 4 are at almost similar prices. I thought people stay away from luxury marque brands as they are expensive to buy and maintain even used.
Edit - I read your blog and got am idea on the expenses. Will looking out for a 06 model as it has the power tailgate and passenger seat adjustments too.
Thank you again.
@@physiovinayak Sorry for the delay in my response! The RX shares a lot of parts with other Toyotas, so repairs tend to be cheaper than other luxury marques. You can definitely try to get the price lower from the dealer- they tend to expect people to negotiate prices.
My car has actually sat out in a designated parking spot at an apartment like yours would be doing for the last 3.5 years and it's held up pretty well! I've put on over 20k miles this year and had a couple of issues (thermostat and the neutral safety switch, both about $400 fixes), but this was all past 250k miles.
The most expensive repair we had was replacing a catalytic converter, which was about $1300. Otherwise, the power steering rack and timing belts are both about $800. I think it'd be unlikely you'd have a repair higher than these, and most of these repairs you limp the car along for a bit, or you will know in advance, so you should have some time to save up some money if you do run into issues. An RX with 160k miles will need another timing belt in around 22k miles, but that's still a few years out based on your mileage.
My car is still really solid even with the "abuse" of putting on over 22k miles in a year and sitting outside, so I think an RX should treat you well with the lower miles you'd put on it! I think it'd be a safe bet if it was taken care of. 2006 avoids some of the earlier model year issues too. Good luck with the car search, and let me know if you have any other questions!
@@michaelwoyahn2238 Thanks again mate. I was looking to get a 2007 rx350. I read your blog and the 2007 onwards model years have a timing chain instead of a belt. One less problem to tackle. This one was manufactured in japan as well. Also this year they also had lumbar supports for front passenger..Will be a good thing to have for my wife who is a spinal fracture survivor and has hardware in her spine.
Are the Lexus RX 330 and the 350 interference engines?
physiovinayak You’re welcome! You are correct, 2007 and newer all have a timing chain. The lumbar adjustment definitely sounds like a welcome addition in your case! I believe that both the 3.3 and 3.5 V6 engines are interference engines.
Great to see that it's still going strong at 257k! Is the alternator still original at this mileage??
thecarexpert21 it is!
Wow that is good I had to change my alternator starter and battery around 220000 bit I swear when they replaced my dash they did something electrical because I keep going through batteries on their dime
You think it'll goto 500k?
CarbonKLR I think it would! It’s at 273k miles now. It’ll need another timing belt and some seals refreshed before then, so it most likely won’t get there with me owning it.
@@michaelwoyahn2238 at what point did you do the timing belt? Did you do it as preventative maintenance or are there signs of it wearing?
CarbonKLR we did the first timing belt at around 100k and the second one around 190k. I think both were just preventative. I don’t remember seeing signs of wear!
@@michaelwoyahn2238 great so every 100k is a safe rule of thumb I guess. What would some signs of wear be?
@@AlanTrades I think the recommended interval is every 90k, but we've pushed it and been okay. I think if the belt is fraying or starting to appear cracked, it's time to replace it.
Check your rear diff breather plug, mine was completely corroded and stuck shut, once I changed that the seal on the diff weeps oil significantly less. Diff plug is like $8 from Lexus and would give you more time to replace seals.
futam I’ll definitely have to look into that! Thank you for the tip!
Do you still have your Lexus? What are the miles at now? I'm thinking of buying a 04 rx330 here in Cali with 204k miles for 6500.
I ended up getting rid of it this March with over 286,000 miles on it. It had some smaller issues like leaky seals, but it was still kicking! Was just time to move on
How long ago did you get that sparkle paint job ?
thedudeandstuff it’s actually a factory color! Flint Mica!
Hi! Is there an auxiliary input in this car or anywhere to play music through my phone?
Matt Anzalone Hi there! Unfortunately there’s no auxiliary port. If you have a cassette deck, you can do what I do and use a cassette to aux adapter with a Bluetooth adapter to connect my phone. I can link what I use if you’d like, I’m very happy with the sound quality. Otherwise, there are FM transmitters or kits you can install to add an aux input, but you have to remove the radio to install them. Definitely an annoying omission in this car.
Michael Woyahn I’d very much appreciate it if you could send the link, thank you. I’m thinking of buying one with 125,000 miles for around $5500. Any advice?
@@manzalone Sure thing! It looks like the exact cassette adapter I purchased was discontinued, but this one looks to be the same. Sometimes they are finicky, so definitely keep the box in case you have to return it! www.amazon.com/Monster-MBL-800-CAS-ADPT-Performance/dp/B06ZZTP3RH/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=cassette+adapter+monster&qid=1599084811&s=electronics&sr=1-4
This is the Bluetooth adapter. I really like this since my phone automatically connects every time I start the car: www.amazon.com/Monster-MBL-800-CAS-ADPT-Performance/dp/B06ZZTP3RH/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=cassette+adapter+monster&qid=1599084811&s=electronics&sr=1-4
That seems like a really good deal for the miles! If it is an RX330, make sure the timing belt was done otherwise that's a pricier service around $800 to replace the water pump with it. Another problem area is the power steering- they tend to leak, though I was able to get away with just a line being replaced on my car vs the whole rack. If it's an older model year, the seals might be getting older and starting to seep, so I'd keep an eye out for damp spots under the car, if you get the chance to look under it!
I do have a written buyers guide too, which details a few other things to look out for and differences between model years: oppositelock.kinja.com/2004-2009-lexus-rx330-rx350-buyers-guide-1828762309
Michael Woyahn I think you may have sent the same link for both the Bluetooth adapter and the cassette adapter, but I really do appreciate it! I’m bringing it to a mechanic for a pre-purchase check up. I’ll make sure that he takes a look at those as well as the tires and everything else. Hopefully this car will last me a long time!
@@manzalone You are correct. This should be the link to the bluetooth adapter: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07K2WC7X1/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Always a good call to get a pre-purchase inspection done. Best of luck with the shopping, even if this one doesn't work out! My RX330 is at 282,000 miles and still pretty solid! It's showing its age a bit in some seals that had to get replaced, but I actually just put over 900 miles on it in two days and had no issues! They're about as reliable as you can get for the price and luxury!
I will say that my dad did just have the A/C go out on his 2008 RX350 with 185,000 miles on it. I think that was more of a fluke than anything because (knock on wood) my RX's A/C still works flawlessly. I guess with that, it is possible to still have bigger maintenance costs come up, but these cars are much less of a gamble than an equivalent German luxury car!
Question,what kind of gasoline should put on 2005 rx330?
bosco huang We’ve only used regular over the 200,000 miles we’ve had it and had no issues! I think you get a little more power with premium, but I prefer saving the money with regular.
Michael Woyahn ok,as long as not hurting the car,i am gonna put regular for sure to save some bucks. I read online,2006 rx330 suggest to use premium,but while 2005 and early use regular,thats why i dont get it and question it?do you know any reason?
@@boscohuang2886 I'm not entirely sure why, but Toyota tended to switch around their fuel recommendations in the RX. I believe from 2004-2006 premium was "recommended" and from 2007 to 2012, premium was "required". From 2013 on, regular is recommended. My dad has only used regular in his 2008 for around 90,000 miles and had no issues. I think they do this so they can rate the RX as having a couple of HP more than the Highlander. At the end of the day, I am pretty positive the Highlander and RX share the same engine with the same compression ratio, so I think regular should be fine in these cars!
Michael Woyahn ok,thank you for taking your time to reply.
bosco huang no problem!
I have a 99...the RX series are tuff!! Mine has 238,000....it still runs great
That's awesome! They really are great cars.
Do you use premium fuel or regular?? Premium works better for me
Greg Kendrick I use regular! I’ve wanted to try premium, but regular seems to work well enough for me so I’d rather save the money for now!
Last question?? Are you to keep it or are you going to give it back to your parents?? I think it’s a great car as long you can afford to take care of it!! The style never changes...the dings and rust are really nothing!! Even if you would need a new/used engine it would be worth it
Greg Kendrick I’m going to keep it at least through college, if not beyond, as long as there are no massive repair costs or accidents! It is only worth about $3,000 so it’d be hard to justify putting more than probably $800 into it. But I’ve put on 8,000 miles since this update with it only needing oil changes so at this point there’s no reason to get rid of it! It’s really been the perfect car for me and I’d love for it to stick around.
Hello great video review, any issues with the catalyst converter or air conditioner?
Dolapo Odutola Thank you! We did replace one catalytic converter at around 242,000 miles. I am getting an intermittent P0420 code, but it comes up every 2,000 miles or so. No problems with the air conditioner yet!
I'm looking at a 2004rx 330. One owner. Excellent condition. With 220000 miles on it for 5500. Alternator. Power steering pump. Wheel bearings. Brakes. All replaced. Now there is a leak at the valve cover gasket and in the muffler they are going to have repaired before selling. It is a beautiful vehicle. Should I look for one with less miles or take my chances with this?? What's your opinion please? Thanks.
Seems like a lot of the problem areas are addressed! I'd double check when the timing belt was done as well since that can be an expensive service. The radiator is the only common problem area I can think of. Honestly, I am parting ways with my car soon as it's had a few little issues come up over the last year or so after 275,000 miles. It has a persistent check engine light for the catalytic converter and it's had a few leaks and sensors go bad. Most repairs have been around $500 or less so it's not likely to bankrupt you, the repairs just have added up for me and my driving situation changed. However, it is at almost 286,000 miles now and it still starts right up and drives like it did 100,000 miles ago. Apart from the CEL, it's still so solid and everything still works.
I think they are super solid cars, it's just at the end of the day, they are 18 years old so they likely won't be perfect.that era), but you'll likely have to pay for some maintenance and repairs as they are older. I've loved my car and took it on three cross country road trips when it had 220,000 miles, 240,000 miles, and 260,000 miles and it performed great each time. Overall, I think I would recommend it. Just want to make sure you know what to potentially expect!
My 04 rx330 just hit 140k miles. How often do you change your fluids?
Should do it at 5k
Whatch out for the bad front transfer case issue...
My RX330 doors squeak like that too. I put a little Lucas transmission fluid on it. All I had at the time. Fixed it right up though.
Thanks for the advice! I actually just put white lithium grease on them and they're no longer squeaking, but I'll keep that in mind if the grease doesn't last!
I just got one from a old couple that kept it in a garage only 100k miles for ONLY 2,500
These videos are extremely helpful. Thanks Michael! I am looking to sell my Tundra and get out of a big payment. I was thinking about a Camry, but the Highanlder/RX 330 style just looks so much more useful. And for the same year/mileage/price why not go for a Lexus!
I'm glad you found the videos to be helpful! I will say that the SUV body style is very useful. I've fit five people and a weekend's worth of their luggage in it, and I've used this car to move three times now and I can fit so much stuff in it! On top of that, it is very comfy and the luxury features are really nice, too.
I will say that some repairs can be a bit more if they are Lexus specific parts, but that's pretty uncommon. I'm hoping to do an update video soon, but my RX is at 270,000 miles now and the only thing that has gone wrong recently is the parking brake broke I think due to rust. Otherwise, it's still happily rolling along!
I've written up a buyer's guide for the 2nd gen RX, which goes a bit more in depth into what to look out for, if you want to check it out: oppositelock.kinja.com/2004-2009-lexus-rx330-rx350-buyers-guide-1828762309
@@michaelwoyahn2238 That buyer's guide is awesome! I'll have to go through it later in more depth. Nice to see some reviews from someone in the snow belt too. Michigan here!
@@bobgunner3086 Thank you! Ah yeah, you know the pain of the rust belt too. Let me know if you have any questions, I'll hopefully be able to answer them!
I see a lot of comments here on getting repairs. That's the thing with used car. You never know what you're getting with and it could cost thousands for repairs. If you could afford a brand new car it's probably better to go that route.
So I'm back. :D my 05 has 170k miles now. I purchased the car from the auction with 130k I think... I don't remember. I did put like 7k into it 🙄🙄🙄🙄, but I did buy it from an auction. However, it's driving like the beast she is. I mean I drive 90 miles to work everyday, and I still hit like 90 miles an hour on highway each way. I'm hoping to trade her in soon for like a 2010 RX 350...But Lexus IS definitely a great brand hands down. My Acura was good too.. But honestly, compared to my Volvo , Audi , and Acura I would rate the Lexus the best.
Glad to see you back! That initial 7k is a tough pill to swallow, but I'm glad it seems like it was worth the investment! It's amazing how well these cars rack up the miles, even when they're getting up there in age. I definitely could see another Lexus in my future when my RX330 calls it quits, so I can't blame ya for considering a 2010 RX!
Lexus is engineered to last
Should sell it and get a newer before the car is worth less than 1000 bucks it’s already draining your pocket