LEXUS RX300 (2005)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,934 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Total Tests (2024)
1,934
Avg Mileage
117,423 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2005 LEXUS RX300 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the LEXUS brand average of 87%.
At 19 years old, 80% of LEXUS RX300s from 2005 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,934 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 117,423 miles.
How does the 2005 LEXUS RX300 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2005 LEXUS RX300 has 117,423 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 140,600 miles for a 19-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a LEXUS RX300?
The most reliable year is the 2006 model with a 81% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 67%. The 2005 sits between the two at 80%.
How much does a 2005 LEXUS RX300 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
LEXUS RX300 by Year
Checking a specific LEXUS RX300?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2005 LEXUS RX300
The 2005 LEXUS RX300 is a premium performance with a 2994cc petrol engine. 1,934 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2005, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 117,423 miles at 19 years old, LEXUS RX300 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2005 LEXUS RX300 Fuel Costs
The 2994cc petrol 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 £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2005 LEXUS RX300?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 80% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
LEXUS RX300 Reliability Trend
Newer LEXUS RX300s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2005 LEXUS RX300
At 19 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%.
Alternatives to the 2005 LEXUS RX300
The LEXUS RX300 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2007) 75% pass rate (-5%) from 28,740 tests
- SAAB 9-3 (2007) 76% pass rate (-4%) from 13,261 tests
- MERCEDES E (2004) 78% pass rate (-2%) from 8,333 tests
- MERCEDES CLK (2007) 76% pass rate (-4%) from 8,003 tests