There are no safety recalls for the 2002 Lexus RX, but owners have filed 12 complaints with NHTSA.
2002 Lexus RX problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Power Train | 5 | |
| Air Bags | 2 | |
| Unknown or Other | 2 | |
| Engine | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 3
- Air Bags › Side/Window — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 115,860 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 Lexus RX complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Unknown or Other · reported Jan 30, 2026
I want to raise concern about the safety issue and health issues relating to the new LED headlights on cars now. In the morning and evenings, I regularly encounter these extremely bright headlights. It's a big distraction and my driving visual field is impacted by these lights. I would like to see this addressed and resolved! Please advise. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air Bags · at 190,000 miles · reported Sep 6, 2024
The contact owns a 2002 Lexus RX300. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the air bag warning light flashed on the instrument panel. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 190,000.
Fuel/Propulsion System · reported Nov 7, 2021
The system component that malfunctioned was the Fuel Tank Overfill Check Valve, also referred to the Rollover Valve located in the top of the gas tank. The valve is suppose to prevent any fuel purging or fuel leaking during a rollover accident. Unfortunately, the valve can malfunction during normal refueling without the owner being aware. For a few years, I have been smelling fuel fumes during and after refueling. I would sometimes discover a pool of raw fuel under the gas tank and charcoal canister during/after refueling and up to 12 miles later. The vehicle started hesitating, missing and…
Tires · reported Sep 1, 2021
4 new tyres were installed by Firestone but driver side wore out despite balancing rotation, alignment performed during install. TyrePlus sister concern replaced with new tyre and prorated as the tyre was at fault. Same tyre blew out on the road. The tread, side all etc damaged the wire harness and car went out of control causing damage to suspension and fuel tank. Fuel began to leak. Car is toatled due to several other damages. TyrePlus does not want to take ownership. However they have all records of up to date maintenance. They referred me to Bridgestone wherein I need to submit 2…
Power Train · reported Jul 23, 2021
Transmission wouldnt shift all of the sudden on the high way no prior mechanical issues was t boned and broke my leg abs and trac off lights mechanic says total transmission failure 121000 miles and this is the second owner of this vehicle
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 Lexus RX have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2002 Lexus RX as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Lexus RX?
Owners report power train problems most often (5 reports), followed by air bags (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 115,860 miles.
Are Lexus recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Lexus dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.