Lexus RX (2015+) Repair and Operation Manual
This document provides comprehensive guidance for the repair and operation of Lexus RX models manufactured from 2015 onwards, including the RX 200t, RX 300, RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h (AL20 chassis).
Introduction
The Lexus RX, first introduced in 1997, has evolved into a symbol of comfort and premium quality. The fourth generation, designated AL20, debuted in April 2015. This generation features an aggressive exterior design with a prominent grille and LED lighting. Compared to its predecessor, the new model is larger in all dimensions, with an increased wheelbase. While initially offered as a five-seater, a seven-seat, long-wheelbase version (RX L) was introduced in late 2017. The interior maintains high standards of comfort, material quality, and ergonomics. Powertrain options include naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 or a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four engine. The hybrid version combines a 3.5L gasoline engine with electric motors for a total output of 313 hp. Lexus models are typically equipped with 6- or 8-speed automatic transmissions or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for hybrid variants. Significant engineering efforts were focused on refining the chassis and body structure for improved rigidity and handling.
The manual covers various models: RX 200t/RX 300 (8AR-FTS engine), RX 350/RX 350L (2GR-FKS engine), and RX 450h (2GR-FXS engine), all produced from 2015 onwards.
Images show the exterior design of the Lexus RX, highlighting the aggressive front grille and LED lighting. Interior images display the updated dashboard, shifter position, and spacious seating arrangements, including the option for a seven-seat configuration. Diagrams illustrate the exterior dimensions of the Lexus RX, with callouts for various body panels and features. Interior diagrams label components such as the pedal assembly and suspension parts.
| Model (Engine) | Body Type | Engine Displacement | Doors | Transmission | Drive Type | Fuel Type | Fuel Tank Capacity | Fuel Consumption (City/Highway) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RX 200t/RX 300 (8AR-FTS) | Wagon | 1998 cc | 5 | 6-speed automatic | Front-wheel or AWD | Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON) | 72 L | 9.8/6.6 L/100 km |
| RX 350/RX 350L (2GR-FKS) | Wagon | 3456 cc | 5 | 8-speed automatic | AWD | Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON) | 72 L | 12.7/6.9 L/100 km |
| RX 450h (2GR-FXS) | Wagon | 3456 cc | 5 | CVT | AWD | Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON) | 65 L | 4.3/6.4 L/100 km |
Chapter 1: Emergency Situations
This section details actions to take in various emergency scenarios, including:
- Hazard warning lights
- Emergency vehicle stops
- Vehicle towing procedures
- What to do if something is concerning
- Fuel pump shut-off system
- Warning lights or sounds
- Warning messages
- Flat tire procedures
- Engine/hybrid system not starting
- Electronic key malfunction
- Discharged battery
- Engine overheating
- Vehicle stuck
- Fuse replacement
- Lamp replacement
Chapter 2A: Daily Checks and Troubleshooting
This chapter covers routine inspections and methods for identifying common vehicle malfunctions.
Chapter 2B: Operating the Vehicle in Winter
Provides guidance on operating the Lexus RX during winter conditions.
Chapter 2C: Visiting the Service Center
Offers advice on preparing for and interacting with a service center.
Chapter 3A: Operation and Maintenance Instructions
Details technical information about the vehicle, controls, dashboard layout, interior equipment, body and interior care, and general maintenance.
Chapter 3B: Consumables for Maintenance
Lists the necessary fluids and materials for performing routine maintenance.
Chapter 4: Precautions and Safety Rules for Work on the Vehicle
Outlines essential safety measures and precautions to be followed when performing maintenance or repairs on the Lexus RX.
Chapter 5: Basic Tools, Measuring Instruments, and Methods
Introduces fundamental tools, measuring devices, and techniques used in vehicle maintenance and repair.
Chapter 6: Engine Mechanical Part
Covers the mechanical aspects of the engine, including:
- Checks without removing the engine
- Drive (poly-V) belt
- Camshaft
- Cylinder head gasket
- Crankshaft seals
- Engine assembly
- Engine block
- Cylinder head
Image of a spark plug, used for diagnosing engine performance issues based on its condition.
Chapter 7: Cooling System
Details the cooling system, coolant, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, and radiator. Includes procedures for checking system integrity, coolant level, and coolant quality.
Diagrams illustrate the process for checking coolant levels in the expansion tank and the radiator cap, emphasizing safety precautions.
Chapter 8: Lubrication System
Focuses on the engine's lubrication system, covering oil and oil filter checks, oil pressure, oil pump, and oil radiator.
Images show engine components for different Lexus RX models, specifically the 8AR-FTS and 2GR-FKS/FXS engines, illustrating their layout.
Chapter 9: Fuel System
Provides information on fuel system precautions, the fuel tank, and components located both in the tank and in the engine compartment. Includes procedures for releasing fuel system pressure.
Diagrams illustrate fuel system components and the procedure for safely releasing fuel pressure before maintenance.
Chapter 10: Engine Management and Hybrid System
Covers the engine control systems, including the accelerator pedal, Engine Control Module (ECM), throttle body, various sensors, and details specific to the hybrid system.
Diagram shows the accelerator pedal assembly, including the pedal itself, its cover, and the position sensor.
Chapter 11: Intake and Exhaust Systems
Details components of the intake and exhaust systems, including the intake manifold, exhaust pipes, muffler, turbocharger system (for 8AR-FTS), and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system (for 2GR-FXS).
Diagram illustrates the intake manifold and associated components for the 8AR-FTS engine, detailing various hoses, sensors, and brackets.
Chapter 12: Engine Electrical Equipment
Covers the electrical systems related to the engine, including ignition, starting, and charging systems, as well as battery maintenance.
Diagrams illustrate the process for checking the ignition system, including spark plug and ignition coil removal, and disconnecting fuel injectors.
Chapter 13A: Automatic Transmission
Provides information on automatic transmission fluid, shifter, transmission assembly, and related components.
Diagrams illustrate the procedure for checking and replacing automatic transmission fluid, including locating drain and fill plugs and measuring fluid volume.
Chapter 13B: Hybrid Transmission
Details the hybrid transmission system, including fluid, shifter, and assembly.
Chapter 13C: Transfer Case
Covers the transfer case, including fluid and seals.
Chapter 14: Drive Shafts and Final Drive
Describes front and rear drive shafts, and the rear differential for various models.
Chapter 15: Suspension
Details the front and rear suspension systems, wheels, tires, hubs, and steering knuckles.
Chapter 16: Brake System
Covers brake fluid, brake pedal, brake system components, front and rear brakes, parking brake, and the vehicle stability control system.
Chapter 17: Steering System
Provides information on the steering wheel, steering column, tie rods, steering gear, and power steering system.
Chapter 18: Body
Covers general information about the vehicle body, exterior equipment, interior equipment, and body dimensions.
Chapter 19: Passive Safety System
Details the passive safety systems, including SRS (Supplemental Restraint System), airbags, clock spring, sensors, and seatbelts.
Chapter 20: Air Conditioning System
Provides information on air conditioning system precautions, sensors, control units, and components.
Chapter 21: Engine Electrical Equipment and Electrical Systems
This extensive chapter covers various electrical systems, including lighting, controls, and detailed wiring diagrams. It explains how to read wiring diagrams and provides color codes for wires.
Wiring diagram for the rear lights of the Lexus RX, showing connections and wire color codes.
Chapter 21: Electrical Schematics
This section contains detailed electrical schematics for various vehicle systems. It includes a legend for wire color codes (Black, Blue, Red, Pink, Orange, White, Violet, Green, Yellow, Beige, Brown, Light Blue, Light Green).
