There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Lexus RX, but owners have filed 4 complaints with NHTSA.
2003 Lexus RX problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Seat Belts | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 | |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 125,000 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 2003 Lexus RX complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Unknown or Other · reported Jan 27, 2024
I bought this vehicle from a private person and it look like it has odometer fraud. The odometer mark 85.555 miles but it really has around 185.555 miles or more not sure yet.
Vehicle Speed Control · at 144,000 miles · reported Sep 4, 2020
As I was driving the car started to speed up uncontrollably and would not slow down even with the brakes applied. I had to put it into neutral to apply the brakes but we went from 45 - 85mph in a matter of seconds while driving in 45mph zone in the inner city. When I turned the car back on while in park the accelerator was still stuck up to 100mph + so it was not drivable. We found out later from the mechanic that the throttle was sticky and stuck in the open position.
Seat Belts · at 103,000 miles · reported Dec 18, 2019
My son was involved in a head-on crash resulting in both vehicles being totaled. The driver of the other vehicle received minor injuries from his air bag. My son however punched his head through the windshield resulting in significant injury to his head and face. Both airbags deployed, and he was wearing his seat belt. It is my belief that the seat belt did not lock correctly upon impact
Air Bags · at 125,000 miles · reported Oct 20, 2014
Six months ago, the drivers side seat belt warning light came on. Two weeks ago, the drivers side air bag warning light came on. This appears to be a wide spread issue with these lexus rx 300's evidenced by the numerous complaints logged on the web. My car was garage kept for the majority of it's life. This issue should not be happening and should be repaired by lexus at no cost to the consumer.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Lexus RX have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 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 2003 Lexus RX?
Owners report air bags problems most often (1 reports), followed by seat belts (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 125,000 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.