Automatic Transmission problems of the 2003 Lexus RX300

The transmissions in Lexus Rx300 models are unsafe. The transmission in my Rx300 had to be replaced at 70,000 miles and again at 120,000 miles. Lexus is not standing behind their product. There have been numerous complaints about the transmission in the Rx300 model. Lexus will not acknowledge this defect. Also, I was misled at the dealership the first time they replaced the transmission. I was assured that the transmission was not "refurbished", when, indeed, it is not a new transmission. The definition of the word "refurbished" was in question. The transmission going out repeatedly and so early in the Rx300 model is a safety hazard. Lexus' failure to acknowledge the problem and their decision to wait until someone has a problem with the transmission is a safety issue in itself.

My wife drove the vehicle to work. She parked, turned the engine off, and removed the key while the shifter was in the neutral position. Thinking that it was in "park", she exited the vehicle and began to walk away. The vehicle rolled backward and pinned her right let in between its rear bumper and the bumper of another vehicle.

The contact owns a 2003 Lexus Rx300. While driving 65 mph, the engine shut off without warning and the vehicle was towed to the dealer. The transmission was determined to be the cause of the failure and was replaced at the cost of $3,922. 40. A report was filed with the manufacturer and they stated that the vehicle was out of warranty. The contact did not establish a relationship with the dealer; therefore, they would not assist. The VIN was unknown. The failure mileage was 78,926 and current mileage is 79,000. Updated 3/9/09 the vehicle would not shift into reverse. Updated 03/10/09.