2021 Lexus RX: common problems and reliability
One of the worst RX years.
One of the Lexus RX years to avoid. All RX years
281 owner complaints, most about air bags. 1 recall.
Should I buy a 2021 RX?The 2021 Lexus RX has 281 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and structure.
Safety record for the 2021 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Lexus RX vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other RX years only. How we score it
Is 2021 a good year for the RX?
Across the 29 RX model years we track, complaint volume runs from 6 (1998) to 347 (2007). With 281 complaints, the 2021 RX sits above 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
Recalls affecting the 2021 RX
air bags:sensor:occupant classification
Campaign 23V865000Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
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 2021 ranks against the rest.
Compare the RX against its rivals
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