Lexus RZ Model Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Lexus RZ is the first fully electric SUV designed from the ground up by Lexus. It shares its platform with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra but delivers a more premium interior, stronger performance, and a smoother drive. Although it is still a new model in the UK, owners and technicians have already reported several early issues worth knowing about. Below is a clean, human written, and fully readable breakdown of the RZ, its common faults, and real repair costs in pounds.
Lexus RZ Model Overview
Lexus RZ450e (2023 to present):
This is the only RZ model currently sold in the UK. It uses a 71 kWh battery, two electric motors, and offers a quiet and refined driving experience. It has strong build quality, but like all new EVs, a few problems have started to show.
Common Lexus RZ Problems and UK Repair Costs
1. Battery Range Drop in Cold Weather
Range can fall noticeably in winter. This is normal for EVs, but some RZ owners report more range loss than expected.
Repair Cost: No repair needed. If the heat pump fails, expect £600 to £1,100.
2. Fast Tyre Wear
The RZ is heavy and powerful. This leads to quicker tyre wear, especially on the larger wheel options.
Repair Cost: £160 to £220 per tyre.
3. Slow or Inconsistent Fast Charging
Some RZs show reduced fast charging speeds, often fixed with a software update.
Repair Cost: £0 to £150 for updates.
4. Infotainment Freezing or Rebooting
The large touchscreen can lag, freeze, or restart during navigation or phone connection.
Repair Cost: £0 to £150 for software fixes.
5. Cabin Creaks and Trim Noises
A few owners report slight dashboard creaks during cold starts.
Repair Cost: £80 to £180 for refitting or insulation.
6. Charging Port Door Problems
A stiff or misaligned charging port door is a known minor issue.
Repair Cost: £90 to £160 to adjust or replace parts.
7. Steering Yoke Sensitivity (optional extra)
Models with the steer by wire yoke can feel overly responsive on the motorway.
Repair Cost: £0 to £100 for recalibration.
8. Heat Pump or Cabin Heating Failure
Seen before on the Toyota bZ4X and Solterra, and occasionally in early RZ units.
Repair Cost: £500 to £1,100 depending on parts.
9. Water Entry Around Door Seals
A small number of RZs show minor water entry after washing or heavy rain.
Repair Cost: £120 to £250 for new seals.
10. On Board Charger Failure
A rare but costly fault that affects home charging.
Repair Cost: £850 to £1,500 depending on supply.
Yearly Maintenance Costs for the Lexus RZ
The RZ has far fewer service items than a petrol or hybrid SUV. Typical yearly maintenance costs in the UK include:
| Service | Average UK Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual EV service | £120 to £200 |
| Brake service | £80 to £150 |
| Coolant system check | £70 to £130 |
| Full set of tyres | £650 to £900 |
Lexus RZ Reliability
The RZ benefits from Lexus and Toyota’s long history with electric systems. The motors and battery have shown strong reliability so far. Most issues are minor and fixed with software. Since the model is new, long term data is still limited, but early signs are positive.
Buying Advice and Inspection Guide
Anyone buying a used Lexus RZ should get a proper pre purchase inspection. Electric cars need specialist checks that cover the battery, brake systems, cooling systems, suspension, and charging components.
The most trusted choice in the UK is CAREXAMER, the leading specialist for electric and hybrid car inspections. Their detailed reports often save buyers large sums by catching problems early.
Summary
The Lexus RZ is a smooth, quiet, and premium electric SUV. It is not free from issues, but most problems are small, predictable, and affordable to repair. With regular servicing and a professional inspection before buying, the RZ is a reliable and comfortable option for drivers who want an electric luxury SUV in the UK.
Buying a used VW. Buying used vauxhall, BMW, Jaguar, Ford, Volvo, Range rover, Bentley, Aston Martin, Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Hyundai, Tesla, Honda, Pagani