2005 Lexus RX recalls and problems

The 2005 Lexus RX has 1 safety recall and 27 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Lexus dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
27
Crashes / fires
1 / 1
Injuries / deaths
1 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2005 Lexus RX vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2005 Lexus RX recalls

Recall 10V-499: Service Brakes, Hydraulic

Reported Oct 21, 2010 · 728,544 vehicles affected · TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Problem: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2005-2006 avalon, model year 2004-2006 highlander, model year 2004-2006 lexus rx, and model year 2006 lexus gs and is vehicles. Brake fluid containing polymers is used that acts as lubricants for certain brake system components. If replacement brake fluid is used that does not contain such polymers, or that contains only small amounts, a part of the rubber seal located at the rear of the brake master cylinder may become dry, and the seal may curl during movement of the piston. If this occurs, a small amount of brake fluid could slowly leak from the seal into the brake booster.

Risk: A leak of brake fluid could lead to a change in brake pedal feel and overtime a degradation in braking performance increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will replace the seal with a newly designed one. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on november 15, 2010. Owners may contact toyota at 1-800-331-4331 and lexus at 1-800-255-3987.

2005 Lexus RX problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Air Bags5
Unknown or Other5
Structure4
Power Train3
Vehicle Speed Control2
Electrical System2
Exterior Lighting2
Steering2
Service Brakes2
Fuel/Propulsion System2
Service Brakes, Hydraulic2
Latches/Locks/Linkages1

Most reported parts

  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 2
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder — 2
  • Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hatchback/Liftgate › Lock — 1
  • Structure › Interior Panels › Dashboard — 1
  • Tires › Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire — 1
  • Equipment › Mechanical › Spare Tire Mount/Rack — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 80,000 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 2005 Lexus RX complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Tires · reported Oct 4, 2025
Unexpectedly found steel cable has snapped off & the spare tire was gone Like to report this could be a safety issue leading to an accident for fellow driver.
Air Bags · at 80,000 miles · reported Sep 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2005 Lexus RX 330. The contact stated that there were horizontal and vertical cracks on the dashboard near the passenger’s side air bag housing. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was concerned about the safety of the driver’s and passenger’s side air bags. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
Air Bags · reported Jan 31, 2024
Over past month Dashboard where airbag is under has become discolored and is CRACKING as if AIRBAG wants out. Other 2005 Toyota vehicles have been recalled bc of Dangerous AIRBAG issues. Should the AIRBAGS in 2005 Lexus’ be too? Afraid to drive now.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · at 210,000 miles · reported Nov 30, 2023
The contact owns a 2005 Lexus RX330. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle was slow to respond. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the Duralast brake master cylinder was inoperable. The contact was informed that the piston in the brake master cylinder had become dislodged, causing the braking system to become less efficient. The mechanic replaced the part. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance…
Unknown or Other · reported Jan 20, 2022
Front dashboard cracking and peeling off - have not received any recall notices but have seen this issue appear on others complaints. We have heard there have been recalls but have received no notices to date to be able to have repaired

Other Lexus RX years

Compare all Lexus RX years · All Lexus models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2005 Lexus RX have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2005 Lexus RX: 10V-499 (service brakes, hydraulic). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2005 Lexus RX?

Owners report air bags problems most often (5 reports), followed by unknown or other (5). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 80,000 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.