Lexus RX300 (2004)
Estimated running costs and MOT pass rates from 2,255 MOT tests in 2024.
Annual Cost
£2,958
£247/month
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Average
Road Tax
£445
Estimated/year
Est. Insurance
Grp 30-42
2995cc Other fuel
Check Carefully
79% pass rate, £2,958/year to run. Close to the average across all models.
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Annual Running Costs
~30 mpg
Estimated CO2 band
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), petrol at 174.57p a litre (GOV.UK weekly average, week of 19 October 2026), GOV.UK road tax rates and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the average of 82% across all models in our data. It falls below the Lexus brand average of 87%.
79% of MOT tests on Lexus RX300s from 2004 ended in a pass in 2024, when they were about 20 years old. That's based on 2,255 tests across the UK, retests included. The average mileage recorded at those tests was 124,237 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
124,237
Average miles
148,000
Expected for age
The average 2004 Lexus RX300 had 124,237 miles on the clock at its 2024 MOT, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
Of the years with at least 100 tests, the 2006 model has the highest MOT pass rate at 81%, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 67%. The 2004 scores 79%. Newer cars usually pass more often simply because they are younger, so compare years of a similar age.
Lexus RX300 by Year
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About the 2004 Lexus RX300
The 2004 Lexus RX300 is a premium performance car. Our records list a 2995cc other fuel engine, though engines vary between versions. 2,255 MOT tests were recorded on this model in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all models from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 124,237 miles recorded at its 2024 MOT tests, Lexus RX300 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 Lexus RX300 Fuel Costs
The 2995cc other fuel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,958 per year with petrol at 174.57p per litre (GOV.UK weekly average, week of 19 October 2026; based on 7,400 miles per year). This is a petrol-price estimate; running on other fuel will change the cost.
What does it cost to own a 2004 Lexus RX300?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,958 (£247/month), broken down as £1,958 fuel, £445 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 79% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
Lexus RX300 Reliability Trend
Newer Lexus RX300s pass their MOT more often than older ones, by 7 percentage points on average, which is mostly down to age and wear.
Buying a Used 2004 Lexus RX300
At 22 years old, the Lexus RX300 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2006 model has the highest pass rate at 81%.
Common Issues to Watch For
These are typical issues for cars of this age, fuel type and engine size, not faults recorded on this model's MOT tests. Use them as a checklist when you view one.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 124k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Questions about the 2004 Lexus RX300
Is the 2004 Lexus RX300 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. 79% of MOT tests on 2004 Lexus RX300s ended in a pass, from 2,255 tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included). That's 3 points below the average of 82% across all models in the same data.
How much does a 2004 Lexus RX300 cost to run?
Our estimate is £2,958 a year (£247 a month): £1,958 fuel, £445 road tax, £55 MOT and £500 predicted repairs, based on 7,400 miles a year. Insurance is not included.
What is the MOT pass rate for a 2004 Lexus RX300?
79% of 2,255 MOT tests on the 2004 Lexus RX300 ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included). That ranks it 122nd of 470 models first registered in 2004 (top half).
Which year Lexus RX300 has the best MOT pass rate?
Of the years with at least 100 tests, the 2006 Lexus RX300 has the highest MOT pass rate at 81% and the 2002 the lowest at 67%. Newer cars usually pass more often simply because they are younger and have done fewer miles.
What is the average mileage for a 2004 Lexus RX300?
The average mileage recorded at MOT tests on the 2004 Lexus RX300 is 124,237 miles, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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