Three problems related to transmission gear slipping have been reported for the 2002 Lexus RX300. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The contact owns a 2002 Lexus Rx300. The contact stated his transmission fails whenever he drives, the transmission makes noise. The gear is slipping and the vehicle will not move. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the transmission was replaced for $4800. There is a power train warranty but they will not honor it and want the contact to pay for the repairs. The Toyota/Lexus manufacturer was called and they stated they will not honor the warranty. The failure mileage was 57,465. Updated 04/15/10. Updated 05/13/10. Updated 05/25/10.
Fwd vehicle. Gear slippage began without warning and in minutes the transmission failed completely. No warning lights came on. The mechanic says the clutch is burned out, requiring a new transmission. The car has 94k miles on it and this is not covered under warranty. The cost for replacement with a re-manned oem transmission is $3,900. It is being replaced by the local Toyota dealer.
On February 20, 2009, I was driving my 2002 Lexus Rx300 with approximately 79k miles when it would not shift into overdrive. I brought vehicle to repair shop where I was informed that the knock sensors needed to be replaced. I had them replaced and vehicle seemed to be working fine. On may 5, 2009, my transmission began slipping when shifting from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd. When vehicle brought to repair facility and I was informed that transmission is no good and needs to be replaced. At this time I looked on internet and found that many Lexus Rx300 are having the same problem. The cost of repairs is approximately $4,500. I paid $1,500 for knock sensors to be replaced already. There should be a recall.