2005 Lexus RX330 Problems
- Complaints
- 165filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 80,000miles, 122 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 3campaigns on record
- Trend
- FallingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- —overall rating starts with 2011 models
- EPA fuel economy
- 20 mpgcombined, 3.3L 6-cyl FWD · 17 city / 23 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 2005 Lexus RX330 (complaints, recalls, investigations), EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of the 2005 RX330 complain most about a dashboard that cracks, crumbles and turns sticky, about moisture inside the front headlight assemblies, and about power steering fluid leaks traced to the rack and pinion. Complaints arrive across a wide mileage range, from well under 20,000 miles to beyond 150,000, and many describe problems found during routine service rather than after a sudden event.
- Body and structure
Dashboard cracking and sticky/melting material
- 26 complaints (16%)
- median 77,000 mi at 7.2 yrs old (19 state mileage)
- filed 2011–2021
Owners describe hairline cracks that appear around the glovebox, radio area and passenger airbag cover, then spread into long cracks; pieces that fall off crumble when touched, and some dashes become sticky or melt. Several say the dealer or manufacturer attributed it to heat or humidity (one diagnosis described hydrolysis). Owners report being quoted roughly $1,500-$2,000 for a replacement dash plus labor, with some receiving partial or labor-only coverage. Reported from as little as 8,000 miles up into the 140,000s, often in hot or humid climates and in garaged, well-kept vehicles.
What to check: Inspect the dash above the glovebox, around the radio and along the passenger airbag seams for cracks or stickiness, and ask whether any warranty enhancement or goodwill replacement was ever performed.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“A crack above the glove box started to appear. If the crack continues, it could cause problems to the electrical system and cause a wreck or life. I bought the Lexus new and paid around $38,000. I love the car, as it looks brand new, except for the dash board. The back seat has hardly been sat in.”
NHTSA complaint #10639176, filed 2014-09, 115,000 miles“My vehicle has always been parked in a garage, and I have always used a shield in the front window when it is parked outside regardless of weather. I am fanatical about cleaning and used only cleaners, conditioners, etc that Lexus had recommended (basically I only buy what Lexus sells to care for my SUV). In early 2011, my daughter noticed a very large crack in the dash right above the glove compartment. (we were getting into the vehicle not moving, etc). …”
NHTSA complaint #10626564, filed 2014-08, 55,000 miles - Steering
Power steering rack and pump leaks
- 24 complaints (15%)
- median 108,797 mi at 9.7 yrs old (20 state mileage)
- owner-quoted repair $1,000 (median of 9 quotes)
- filed 2010–2018
Complaints describe power steering fluid leaks traced to the rack and pinion, and in some cases the pump or high-pressure hose, usually found during routine service. Owners mention low or dirty fluid, noise from the steering, and steering that felt stiff or loose, with repair estimates commonly quoted around $1,000-$1,900. Several say the dealer diagnosed the leak but no repair was made, and a few report the problem returning after repair. Mostly reported between roughly 60,000 and 160,000 miles, often discovered at scheduled maintenance rather than by a sudden failure.
What to check: Check the power steering fluid level and colour, look for oily residue on the rack boots and under the pump, and ask whether the rack or pump has been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“During routine state inspection, dealer informed me the power steering rack was leaking and must be replaced. The cost to replace the rack is estimated at $1600. From reading similar stories for Lexus vehicles, I understand the leak could lead to catastrophic failure of the steering system and possible fires from fluids on the alternator.”
NHTSA complaint #10298173, filed 2010-01, 40,000 miles“Vehicle starting making noise, took it into an auto repair shop, and was told the power steering fluid was very low. They also stated I needed to replace the rack and pinion. I looked online, and it seems to be an issue with 2005 RX330's. Obviously, reading the complaints, there should be a recall for this known problem.”
NHTSA complaint #10643465, filed 2014-10, 108,000 miles - Exterior lighting
Moisture inside headlight assemblies
- 27 complaints (16%)
- median 65,000 mi at 5.1 yrs old (23 state mileage)
- owner-quoted repair $1,550 (median of 10 quotes)
- filed 2009–2016
Owners report moisture building up inside the front headlight housings, sometimes within weeks of purchase and sometimes after a bulb or assembly replacement. Some say water reached the light's control unit and the lamp then failed to work; others describe dim or misaligned output. Dealers quoted full assembly replacement in the $1,600-$1,800 range, with some repairs done under warranty or goodwill and others declined. Reported from about 16,000 miles up past 100,000, with no clear seasonal pattern in the sample.
What to check: Look for fogging, droplets or dried water marks inside both headlight lenses and confirm both lamps illuminate evenly and the leveling/aim function works.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“2005 Lexus RX330. The contact stated that the right side front headlight failed twice in past 18 months due to water condensation in headlight assembly and ecu. 1st time was replaced under warranty. Second failure was after warranty period and Lexus corporate stated it was a different issue and refused to replace. Estimate to replace by dealer is $1,600.00.”
NHTSA complaint #10362421, filed 2010-10, 88,000 miles“Moisture problem in both front headlights of my 2005 Lexus RX330. One was replaced 2 years ago under warranty the other march 2010 which was covered under the goodwill warranty. Bring your car to Lexus for service all the time and you get the little perks.”
NHTSA complaint #10325416, filed 2010-04, 40,000 miles - Transmission and drivetrain
Transmission hesitation and delayed engagement
- 13 complaints (8%)
- median 80,000 mi at 8.5 yrs old (11 state mileage)
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2005–2018
Owners describe a delay or hesitation when accelerating, sometimes described as a loss of power or a slip, and in some cases harsh or improper shifting. Complaints mention that a dealer recalibrated or updated the transmission control software, with one owner noting a charge for the update; others report the symptom returning or no fault code being found. Reported across a wide range, from very low mileage up to about 115,000, often during acceleration from a stop or when merging.
What to check: Test drive from a stop and at highway speed to feel for delayed or harsh shifts, and ask whether any transmission control software update has been applied.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“I own a 2005 Lexus RX330. I purchased it used in september 2007. Shortly after I purchased it, I had several instances where when I pushed on the gas pedal there was a feeling of a loss of power - a hesitation. I took the vehicle in for work under work in february 2008, and the dealer said it was an improper shift in the transmission and it was recalibrated by a technician. Since that time I have again had several instances where there was a hesitation in supply power. …”
NHTSA complaint #10303052, filed 2010-01, 43,000 miles“My vehicle is a 2005 Lexus rx 330. I purchased it certified pre-owned in 2007. I was coming off the highway and stopped at a light. As I proceeded to take a left hand turn the car started making a loud noise. It was jumping and shifting from side to side. Luckily I was able to control it and pull into a nearby gas station. I couldn't drive it and had it towed to the nearest Lexus service center. I was then told that the transfer case on the front differential went. They opened up the case box and metal shavings fell out! …”
NHTSA complaint #10503589, filed 2013-03, 115,000 miles
Buying note. These complaints centre on cosmetic but costly items — the dashboard and headlight assemblies — plus power steering leaks that are usually found at service rather than suddenly. A pre-purchase inspection should cover the dash, both headlights, the steering rack and the carpets, and service records will show whether any dashboard or steering work has already been done.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 165 consumer complaints for the 2005 Lexus RX330. 122 of the complaints include a mileage, and 25% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 80,000 miles. Of all complaints, 16 involved a crash, 1 a fire, 9 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 3 recall campaigns and 117 technical service bulletins for this model year.
Not compared (before 2008). Model years 2008–2023 of the same vehicle that have at least 25 complaints are compared, and a model needs at least 3 of them.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Exterior lighting32 19%
- Body and structure32 19%
- Steering29 18%
- Other or unknown15 9.1%
- Air bags14 8.5%
- Vehicle speed control14 8.5%
- Brakes11 6.7%
- Engine11 6.7%
- Electrical system7 4.2%
Also reported: Electronic stability control (4), Fuel system (4), Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) (4), Engine cooling (3), Equipment (3), Wheels (3), Seat belts (2), Tires (2), Suspension (1).
Example complaints
Exterior lighting: “I have a 2005 Lexus RX330 in which when raining, headlight condensation occurs. I'm sure as the condensation worsens, the clear lens will start to yellow impairing visibility and ultimately hid lamp failure. Whenever it rains or I get a car wash it is most obvious and annoying. Lexus of bay ridge replaced only 1 light and now the other one is having the same problem.”
NHTSA complaint #10261274, filed 2009-03, 25,000 milesBody and structure: “We are experiencing severe cracking and softening of the dashboard material. This has happened even though we have garaged the vehicle since purchasing. We also have a 2005 toyota camry which has no dashboard issues and it has been left outside consistently since purchased new in 2005. We feel that the cracking and softening of the dashboard presents a chemical health risk.”
NHTSA complaint #10482483, filed 2012-10, 92,000 milesSteering: “There is a problem with the power steering of the vehicle. Took it to the Lexus dealer who stated that there was a leak in the power steering system. I am not a tecnical person but was explicitly told that if I do not get it fixed the steerin wheel could get stuck leading to an accident.”
NHTSA complaint #10441185, filed 2011-12, 34,800 milesTransmission and drivetrain: “One can shift the vehicle into different gears, I.e. Reverse, neutral, drive, without starting the vehicle itself. One can turn off the vehicle while the vehicle is in gear, I.e. Reverse, neutral, drive. Has happened several times before the listed date.”
NHTSA complaint #11091235, filed 2018-05, 80,000 milesMileage when problems were reported
25% of the 122 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 50,000 and 109,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: falling. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 2005 Lexus RX330 version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RX 330 2WD | 3.3L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 17 | 23 | 20 | $3,350 |
| RX 330 2WD | 3.3L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 17 | 23 | 19 | $3,550 |
| RX 330 4WD | 3.3L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 16 | 22 | 19 | $3,550 |
| RX 330 4WD | 3.3L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 16 | 22 | 18 | $3,700 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
- 11V539000Nov 9, 2011Engine and engine coolingCovers: Lexus RX330 2004–2005, Toyota Sienna 2004–2005, Lexus ES330 2004–2005 +6 more
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2004 avalon vehicles; 2004 and 2005 camry, camry solara, highlander, and sienna vehicles, 2006 highlander hybrid; 2004 and 2005 lexus es330 and rx330; and 2006 lexus rx400h vehicles manufactured from june 1, 2004…
- 11V112000Feb 24, 2011Vehicle speed control › Accelerator pedalCovers: Lexus RX330 2004–2007, RX Hybrid 2004–2007, RX350 2004–2007 +2 more
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 highlander, highlander hybrid, and model year 2004-2007 lexus rx330, rx350, and rx400h vehicles. If the forward retention clip used to secure the floor carpet cover, which is located in front of the center…
- 06V253000Jul 13, 2006Vehicle speed control › Accelerator pedalCovers: Lexus RX330 2004–2005, Toyota Highlander 2004–2005, Lexus RX Hybrid 2006 +1 more
On certain sport utility and hybrid vehicles, the two retaining clips for the driver's side forward center console can become loose. If both clips separate from the floor carpet cover, the cover may lean toward the accelerator pedal, causing interference…
Recall details for the 2005 Lexus RX330 → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 117 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 10214355Apr 13, 2022Equipment. Lexus Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements 4.13.2022
- 10210374Mar 9, 2022Equipment. TSB: This Service Bulletin includes procedures to replace damaged or loose front carpet floor retainer(s) without replacing the carpet assembly. Follow the Repair Procedure in this bulletin to…
- 10209023Feb 24, 2022Air bags. TSB: Some 2005 ? 2022 model year Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty smell is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the…
- 10207945Jan 12, 2022Tires, Wheels, Equipment. POL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Lexus. This information must be kept near the point of…
- 10179697Aug 5, 2020Transmission and drivetrain. TSB: Vehicles may display evidence of a fluid leak or fluid seep from powertrain components. This bulletin explains how to determine the differences between a fluid leak versus a fluid seep. Cases…
- 10179601Aug 5, 2020Transmission and drivetrain, Engine. TSB: Vehicles may display evidence of a fluid leak or fluid seep from powertrain components. This bulletin explains how to determine the differences between a fluid leak versus a fluid seep. Cases…
- 10177783Jun 23, 2020Steering. TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE June 23, 2020: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see L-SB-0023-20.
- 10177780Jun 23, 2020Wheels. TSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. ST004-01, SU001-08, and L-SB-0174-08. The aforementioned bulletins are obsolete, and any printed…
- 10176283May 1, 2020Equipment. Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
- 10174889Apr 6, 2020Equipment. TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE April 06, 2020: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see L-SB-0008-20. Replacement Certification Labels and VIN Plates
Other model years of the Lexus RX330
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | 5 | 84,714 | 1 | — | — | — | Not enough data |
| 2006 | 67 | 65,348 | 1 | — | 20 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 2005 | 165 | 80,000 | 3 | — | 20 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 287 | 40,500 | 5 | — | 20 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
All Lexus RX330 model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 2005 Lexus RX330?
Owners of the 2005 RX330 complain most about a dashboard that cracks, crumbles and turns sticky, about moisture inside the front headlight assemblies, and about power steering fluid leaks traced to the rack and pinion. The issues reported most often: Dashboard cracking and sticky/melting material; Power steering rack and pump leaks; Moisture inside headlight assemblies.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2005 Lexus RX330 have?
NHTSA recorded 165 consumer complaints for the 2005 Lexus RX330 as of Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 2005 Lexus RX330 is reported most often?
Exterior lighting is named most often, in 32 complaints (19% of the total), followed by body and structure with 32.
Has the 2005 Lexus RX330 been recalled?
NHTSA lists 3 recall campaigns for this model year. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What gas mileage does the 2005 Lexus RX330 get?
The EPA rates the 2005 Lexus RX330 (RX 330 2WD, 3.3L 6-cyl) at 20 mpg combined, 17 city and 23 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $3,350 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 2005 Lexus RX330 reported?
Among the 122 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 80,000 miles and the middle half falls between 50,000 and 109,000 miles; 25% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.