1999 Lexus RX300 Suspension Problems

“I own a 99 RX300 awd. Purchased the car from a dealership corporation that also owned Lexus of serramonte in sf bay area at 68k miles. The vehicle apparently had all services done on time as my dealer noted and was serviced at their facility since the vehicle left their dealer lot. So the car was locally owned and repaired. At 74k my transmission started to act up where I found the car to be bellow 20% of its temperature the car will either not shift into 4th or over drive. …”

“While driving 40 MPH or less on rough surfaces the front suspension produced a loud noise. Consumer believed the noise came from an improper shaping of rubber bushing of the suspension support.”

“I purchased used 1999 Lexus RX300 in 2008 and so far I've had to replace the transmission due to unexpected catastrophic failure, both air ratio sensors, both knock sensors, oxygen sensor, front strut mounts, and now possibly have to change the transmission again (not shifting correctly). I was not aware that the 1999 to 2001 rx300s were so problematic. Since this is my only vehicle and I am still making payments on it, I am stuck footing the bill for all these repairs. Which from what I have researched are attributed to bad engineering. …”

“I have experienced several problems with my 1999 Lexus RX300. I have notice via the internet that these are wide spread problems but no recalls have been occurring. These are the incidences that I have problems with: * debris can get into the idle air control valve that allows air into the engine causing the engine to have a low idle speed, or stall when it is cold. (this occurred in the past, perhaps 2004. Lexus eventually replaced my engine in 2005.) * sludge can build up in the engine. I routinely have to have the sludge cleaned out to avoid engine problems. …”

“Failure began as a thumping in right front. Progressively got worse although dealer could not find problem. Continued until such time that manufacturer rep got involved at which time parts were finally replaced. Manufacturer stated that they were aware of this problem in other similar vehicles but apparently did not notify owners.”