Lexus RX 350 common problems in Nigeria and what they cost

A favourite on Lagos roads. Here's what tends to go wrong with the RX 350, and what it should cost.

Prices checked on Jiji.ng · 30 Oct 2026

Quick answer

The issues RX 350 owners see most are oil leaks on the V6 engine, water pump leaks, worn suspension, AC faults and, on cars that skipped gearbox oil changes, gearbox trouble.

Most parts cost ₦25,000 to ₦250,000. Shocks on newer models with adaptive suspension and gearboxes are the expensive ones.

RX 350 part prices at a glance

PartPrice range
Brake pads, one axle₦25,000 – ₦40,000
Brake pads, original Lexusaround ₦65,000
Power steering pump₦30,000 – ₦45,000
Water pump (2GR V6)₦20,500 – ₦55,000
Radiator, 2010 to 2015₦70,000 – ₦95,000
Shock absorber, front, 2010 to 2015around ₦60,500
Shock absorber, rear, 2010 to 2015around ₦140,000
Shock absorber with sensor, 2016 and newer₦270,000 – ₦650,000
Engine mount, hydraulicaround ₦120,000
Alternator, up to 2015₦50,000 – ₦60,000
Alternator, 2016 and newer₦150,000 – ₦190,000
AC compressor₦100,000 – ₦250,000
Gearbox, used, 2010 to 2013₦1,400,000 – ₦1,500,000
Gearbox, used, 2018 and neweraround ₦4,000,000
Asking prices on Jiji.ng, Lagos sellers, checked 30 Oct 2026. Parts only.

1. Oil leaks on the V6

The 3.5 litre V6 (2GR) is strong, but watch for oil leaks. On some earlier models, a rubber oil line for the variable valve timing (VVT-i) could leak, and Toyota and Lexus replaced it with a metal one. The timing cover can also seep oil with age. Oil spots under the car or a burning smell after driving need checking quickly.

2. Water pump leaks

A leaking water pump is a common job on this engine. Look for pink or green coolant crust near the front of the engine and a coolant level that keeps dropping. Fix it before it causes overheating. See car overheating.

3. Suspension and knocking

The RX is heavy, and Lagos roads wear out shocks, mounts and links. Newer RX models with adaptive suspension use shocks with sensors that cost much more, so get the exact fault confirmed before buying. See shock absorber prices.

4. AC not cooling

Low gas from a leak, a dirty condenser or a weak fan come before the compressor. See car AC repair costs.

5. Gearbox trouble

Harsh shifts, slipping or a delay into Drive. Many tokunbo RX 350s arrive with gearbox oil that was never changed. Fresh fluid on time costs far less than a used gearbox at ₦1,400,000 or more.

6. Power steering whine

A whine when turning at low speed often means low fluid or a leak. A replacement pump is about ₦30,000 to ₦45,000.

Questions drivers ask

Is the Lexus RX 350 expensive to maintain in Nigeria?

Less than many luxury SUVs, because it shares engines and many parts with Toyotas like the Highlander and Camry. Newer models with adaptive suspension and hybrid parts cost more to fix.

How much is an RX 350 gearbox in Nigeria?

Used gearboxes on Jiji cost about ₦1,400,000 to ₦1,500,000 for 2010 to 2013 models and around ₦4,000,000 for 2018 and newer, before fitting.

Why is my RX 350 leaking oil?

Common sources on the V6 are the valve timing (VVT-i) oil line on some earlier models, the timing cover and valve cover gaskets. Get the leak traced before it gets worse.

How much are RX 350 brake pads?

About ₦25,000 to ₦40,000 per axle from Lagos sellers, or around ₦65,000 for original Lexus pads.

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