2009 Lexus RX: common problems and reliability

One of the better RX years.

132 owner complaints, most about steering. No recalls.

Should I buy a 2009 RX?

The 2009 Lexus RX has 132 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are steering and engine.

Safety record for the 2009 model year

132
Owner complaints
0
Recalls
8
Crash reports
1
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2009 Lexus RX vehicles (US, public record).

The Year Score compares this year with other RX years only. How we score it

Is 2009 a good year for the RX?

Across the 29 RX model years we track, complaint volume runs from 6 (1998) to 347 (2007). With 132 complaints, the 2009 RX sits about the same as the model's median of 125.

These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.

Where owners report problems

steering
33
engine
21
structure
19
air bags
11
electrical system
10

What owners say across generations

Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on exceptional long-term reliability, comfort, and low ownership costs. The RX is consistently described as a "bombproof," comfortable, and quiet vehicle built to last well over 150,000 miles with minimal issues.

Owner insights cover all generations of the RX. See the full RX owner picture and every model year.

Typical used price

Used RX listings typically run $48,889–$55,751.

Other RX model years

Compare every RX year side by side to see how 2009 ranks against the rest.

Compare the RX against its rivals

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