2004 Lexus RX330 from North America - Comments

I also have noticed a problem with my RX330.

We own a 2004 Lexus RX330. We Purchased the RX new and we now have 45,000 miles on the RX. We have not as of this writing been having any problems with the transmission not shifting properly. What has occurred since 40,000 miles is a "whining/whirling noise that gradually becomes apparent at about 20 to 40 mph. I have put 4 new Michelin tires on the car, balanced and aliened all 4 wheels but the noise is still there. One local mechanic told me that it was the transmission. Does any one have any constructive comments that I could use when presenting my case to the dealer based on this information?

My RX 330 at 28,000 miles has just begun the transmission issue at about 20-25 miles per hour. The dealer did the computer adjustment to it. It is still having the problem. Also, at 28,000 miles, four new (and I might add big) tires are needed. Seems really low mileage for new tires, eh?

Have you been rotating your tires regularly?

In 2003, I bought a previously owned 2000 RX300 (with 38,000 miles) from a dealership. While I liked the car overall, it had a very annoying vibration/transmission noise when idling, so decided to trade up to the newer, slightly larger 2004 RX330.

I now have 51,000 miles on the RX330. It was purchased in August '04, and has been a pleasure to own and drive so far. There were a few squeaks and rattles (like in the dashboard) when new, but either they've gone away, or I don't notice them anymore.

I might, from time to time, experience the hesitation that you speak of, but the way it's been explained to me is that it's a computerized system, and at a certain speeds, it doesn't know which gear to be in so I should either ease up or give it a little more gasoline. Until now, I haven't considered it a problem - just an idiosyncrasy of the vehicle and have learned to compensate.

We have a 2005 RX 330. After we bought the car I immediately noticed something strange about the transmission. I was told by the dealer that it wasn't a problem. With all of the postings, I believe that Lexus does have a problem.

I love the car, but it sure seems like Lexus is trying to sweep this issue under the carpet.

My RX330 is 2004, I think 1st year for this model... purchased used at about 50,000 miles... the transmission is odd and not real smooth... I hope it lasts 250k +... only reason I bought a Toyota was for engine & gearbox longevity.

Otherwise love the vehicle, seats are very comfortable... I drive 100 miles a day and always get home pain free. 21 mpg isn't too bad either.

Just beware, rear visibility is terrible.

Wow, I felt like I was the only one with a 2005 RX330 with transmission issues, it's brutal. I spent 45K for this SUV from a Lexus dealer (2 years old), and feel they sold me a faulty vehicle and completely ripped me off. They say the clunky transmission shifting is normal, but everyday I drive it, I get angry as I spent big money on a premium product, and it drives worse than a Hyundai. Total scam from Lexus, do not buy any RX330, they should recall them all. They lost a huge Lexus fan for life... beware of the North American auto demise Lexus, this is how they fell years ago...

Geez folk... just got OUT of a Landrover Freelander that ate it's viscous coupling... and had a similar shifting pattern for a few years (no LandRover fix)...I just got a 2005 RX330 w/51k kilometers... under warranty so I intend to confront the Melbourne dealer...

The plastic moulding on my rear quarter panel window broke off on my RX330 and since it happened to me I have noticed about 4 others with the same piece of rear moulding missing. I am wondering how widespread is this and is Lexus doing anything about it?

I bought my 2004 Lexus RX 330 used with 25k miles. It has been a pleasure to drive, UNTIL!! It has just over 50k miles and there is a ridiculous humming noise from the transmission at 40-45 mph, nearly vibrates the whole car. Anyone ever has the same problem or know if there are any TSB's?? Please help, email Nakouro28@yahoo.com.

2004 Lexus RX 330, Japan-built - intermittent whirring, rattling noise at low speeds/idle at about 45000 miles. Audible from interior cabin. Dealership replaced carburetor under warranty. There are supposedly two, but they only replaced one. Noise minimized, but still experience intermittent sputtering sounds under similar conditions. Noise hard to duplicate, which is the reason it is tough for mechanics to diagnose the problem. I had to ride with my mechanic and make him slow to a stop along the side of building to have him hear the noise when it kicks in. Noise bounces off the wall and is amplified. Service garages are too noisy for proper diagnosis. Will try again to get this fixed. Anyone with success or knowledge of the culprit?