The 2008 Lexus RX can last over 300,000 miles with only some minor dashboard and ignition issues. At $9,244 to $9,557, it’s a great value for a well-made luxury SUV.
Is the 2008 Lexus RX a Good Used SUV?
- Yes, 2008 is a good year for the RX. Owner reviews praise the responsive handling, smooth suspension, and ample cargo space.
- Interior quality is excellent with high-end leather and wood used throughout the cabin. The technology is also easy to use and offers more features than rivals.
- Reliability ratings are fantastic. There are more minor interior problems on the 2007 model, but generally all RX models are free from widespread mechanical issues.
- Performance is very good from the standard V6 engine, but the towing capacity is very low at only 2,000 pounds.
- The 2008 RX is an exceptionally safe SUV, earning a 5-star rating in all government crash tests except the rollover risk rating where it gets 4 stars.
- Fuel economy is good given the size of the RX, at up to 20 MPG combined, making it one of the most efficient luxury SUVs on the market.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Lexus RX?
- Consumer Reports says the new engine in the RX makes it more fun to drive, with very high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Lexus RX a 4.4/5 praising the high-tech features, but Edmunds doesn’t like the overly soft suspension.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the RX 4.7/5 and enjoy the safety features, however owners don’t like the low towing capacity.
What Common Problems Does the 2008 Lexus RX Have?
Common issues found on the 2008 Lexus RX include cracked dashboards, ignition coil failures, and leaks from the power steering system. These are all very minor issues compared to other luxury SUVs on the market, and don’t affect mechanical reliability very much.
Cracked dashboards are the most widespread complaint from owners at around 110,000 miles. Excessive heat causes the dash to expand and contract, leading to cracks. Some owners replace the dash for over $1,000, while others install a dash cover for under $100.
Ignition coil failures show up in some RX models at around 125,000 miles. The coils and plugs need to be replaced as the vehicle gets older, and it’s about a $900 project to swap them out.
Power steering leaks are another issue reported by owners at around 100,000 miles. The steering rack develops some leaks as it ages. Some people choose to reseal the rack for around $200, while others replace it for over $1,000.
There are no recalls on the 2008 Lexus RX, which is much better than other SUVs from the same year. The lack of recalls means that there have not been any widespread issues which affect the safety of the vehicle.
How Long Will the 2008 Lexus RX Last?
A well-maintained 2008 Lexus RX should be able to last over 300,000 miles, which is twice as long as other luxury SUVs like the BMW X5. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than rivals, according to Repair Pal, at $454 per year.
Since most 2008 RX models will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace items including the heater hose for $425, A/C pressure sensor costing $500, and the ignition lock cylinder which costs $600.
Usual repairs for wearable parts. Did have to replace cam gear at seven years. Issues with headlamps getting moisture in them.
The 2008 Lexus rx AWD 4dr is extremely reliable. I have experienced no mechanical systems problems with it and have maintained it according to the owner's manual and manufacturer's recommendations.
No it does not. We have done minimal repairs to it. We had another Lexus and put 230,000 on it with very few repairs also. They are great cars.
Overall, the car has been reliable. As previously stated, there are definite design flaws that may have been fixed with the newer models.
It is reliable. May be a flood damaged car as it has mold issues. The rack and pinion has small leak and the shock is somewhat faulty.
Very reliable - no problems. It is older so I have had lights come on but easy fix and only have had to take it in once in 3 years
I have experienced some issues with the radio. It goes in and out sometimes. And The sunroof has had a problem closing all the way only rarely
It's very reliable. I seldom ever experience any problems. As long as I perform routine maintenance.
How Much Is the 2008 Lexus RX Worth?
Blue book values range from $9,244 to $9,557, making it several thousand more than other luxury SUVs like the Infiniti FX35 or Volvo XC90. When new, the price range was $37,400 to $38,800. Depreciation is better than average, losing only about 8% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Lexus RX?
The 2008 Lexus RX is offered with either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. Technology was just updated in 2007, with a complete redesign coming for the 2010 model year.
Standard Features Include:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Power Rear Liftgate
- 10-Way Adjustable Driver’s Seats
- Wood Dash Trim
- 8-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With In-Dash Changer
Optional Upgrades Include:
- 18-Inch Wheels
- Bi-Xenon Headlights
- Navigation System
- Adaptive Air Suspension
- Rear-Seat DVD Entertainment System
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Heated Front Seats
- 11-Speaker Mark Levinson Stereo System
What Engines Come In the Lexus RX?
The engine found in the 2008 Lexus RX is a fairly powerful 3.5L V6 engine which makes 270 horsepower, and gets up to 20 MPG combined. The towing capacity is relatively low, at only 3,500 pounds.
What Colors Does the Lexus RX Come In?
How Big Is the Lexus RX?
The 2008 Lexus RX is a midsize luxury SUV, similar in size to the Mercedes M-Class and Porsche Cayenne. Passenger room is excellent in the front and back seats, but there’s no third row option available.
Cargo space is great for a midsize SUV, offering 38.3 cubic feet of room behind the back seats and up to 85 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. That’s enough space to fit five people and all of their luggage.
How Does the Lexus RX Compare to the Competition?
The Acura MDX is a rival available in the same price range. Passenger room is a bit better in the Acura MDX since it has an optional third row, but interior materials are nicer in the Lexus RX. We recommend the Lexus RX, since they last a bit longer, but both are fantastic luxury SUVs.
The Lexus GX is another competitor from Lexus costing $5,000 more. Off-road performance and passenger space are both better in the Lexus GX, but the Lexus RX is more efficient. We recommend the Lexus RX for most shoppers, but if you live in a place with a lot of snow, the Lexus GX is a better choice.
Do Owners Recommend the Lexus RX?
Yes. Drives well, good on gas, smooth ride, like being able to get a loaner when taken to dealership for maintenance and repairs.
The best vehicle I have ever owned. The fit and finish when I purchased it were perfect - no flaws. Ten years later it remains tight. The styling is modern but not trendy. The mechanical systems - engine, transmission, etc. Work perfectly.
It is an outstanding vehicle. It is very low maintenance, gets great gas mileage and is very well designed and thought out. It is also extremely comfortable.
I think the overall design is good but there are definite flaws that come out over time. The dashboard had to be replaced because of a recall and it took over a year to get the part in and fix it. Also, the clear layer over the outside paint flakes off creating an unsightly appearance. The most recent design flaw that has appeared is the clogging of the sunroof drain holes. I never knew those existed until it started raining in my car and I looked the problem up online.
Good but maybe a flood damaged car like leather, and trim handles well. Black in and out. Not bad on gas mileage.
Yes- I have absolutely loved this car. It has barely had any problems, goes long distances, I feel safe.
Yes it is. It handles well and is consistent. It has worked well for me. With regular maintenance as with any car it has been a good car
Yes it's fantastic. I would recommend it to all my friends and family. It drives so easy. The ride is smooth. And requires low maintenance