Three problems related to noises during shifting have been reported for the 2001 Lexus RX300. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
It started with a high pitch whinning noise followed by a clunking noise whenever it shifts. It is getting progressively worse each day. Shavings were found in the transmission fluid when it was changed.
Over the course of a few months the following occurred several times: I would shift the car in reverse to back out. At first the car didn't respond, then it would make a clunking noise and a jolt and then shift. Shortly after, it made a high pitched whinnying sound from the engine, but only when it was cold. The dealer could not duplicate the problem when the car was warm. The dealer informed me that it needed a re-manufactured transmission and the cost was almost $5,000. Car has just over 100,000 miles. All service was done, including the 90,000 mile service.
The contact owns a 2001 Lexus Rx300. While driving 55 mph, the contact heard a high pitched noise coming from the front of the vehicle. In addition, the gears would not shift properly. The dealer stated that there was a complete transmission failure. As of February 28, 2008, the dealer had not repaired the vehicle. The current and failure mileages were 84,000.