The Lexus RX 350 is a famous luxury SUV, but some owners have reported persistent problems with the power liftgate, which can affect its overall convenience.
Designed to simplify access to the rear cargo area, the power liftgate can sometimes malfunction, leaving users irritated.
This article takes an in-depth look into the most common power liftgate issues experienced by RX 350 owners, highlighting causes and potential fixes.
Whether your liftgate doesn’t open fully, makes strange noises, or stops working, this guide will help you identify the root causes and suggest solutions.
1. Liftgate Not Closing or Opening Fully
A frequent complaint among Lexus RX 350 owners, especially those with models from 2016-2019, is that the power liftgate doesn’t fully open or close.
The issue often stems from improperly programmed height settings, where the liftgate is set to stop at a lower height than expected.
Dirt or debris in the liftgate tracks can also obstruct movement. In some cases, the liftgate’s hydraulic struts or motor may be worn out, and the force needed to complete the motion may not be provided.
To fix this, you can reset the liftgate height by manually adjusting it to your desired height and pressing the set button.
If the tracks are dirty, cleaning them can restore smooth operation. For persistent problems, replacing the worn hydraulic struts or motor might be necessary to get the liftgate functioning correctly again.
2. Unresponsive Power Liftgate Button
Many RX 350 owners, particularly those with models from 2018 to 2020, have faced problems with the power liftgate button becoming unresponsive.
This issue can occur with the button on the key fob, inside the vehicle, or directly on the liftgate. The most common cause is faulty electrical connections, loose wiring, or a defective button. A weak car battery might sometimes be why the button isn’t working as it should.
To resolve this, inspect and secure any loose or corroded electrical connections. If the buttons are faulty, replacing them may restore functionality. Also, ensure the car battery is fully charged, as a low battery can cause liftgate operation issues.
3. Liftgate Beeping but Not Moving
Another common issue for some 2017 and 2018 RX 350 owners is that the liftgate beeps but refuses to open or close.
This often happens when the vehicle’s safety sensors mistakenly detect an obstruction, even when nothing physically blocks the liftgate. Dirt, misaligned sensors, or parking on an incline can all contribute to this false positive detection.
Cleaning the sensors and realigning them often resolves the issue. If the liftgate doesn’t move because the vehicle is parked on an incline, you can manually assist the liftgate while holding the button to reset the system.
4. Liftgate Motor Noise Without Movement
Owners of 2015-2017 RX 350 models have reported hearing the motor run but seeing no movement from the liftgate.
This is typically due to stripped or worn gears within the motor, which prevent it from lifting the gate even though it’s receiving power. Colder weather can exacerbate the issue by increasing resistance in the motor.
The motor or its internal gears may need to be replaced to fix this. Regular lubrication of the liftgate’s moving parts can help reduce strain on the motor and prevent similar issues from occurring in the future, particularly in colder climates.
5. Power Liftgate Closing Randomly
Some owners of 2019 and 2020 RX 350s have experienced their power liftgates closing unexpectedly, sometimes right after they’ve been opened.
If you’re loading or unloading items when the liftgate suddenly closes, this can pose a safety hazard. The issue is usually caused by malfunctioning sensors or a software glitch in the liftgate control module.
Recalibrating the sensors can often fix the problem. If the issue is due to a software glitch, a dealership can update the liftgate’s control module to restore proper operation.
6. Manual Override Difficulty
For models between 2016 and 2018, some Lexus RX 350 owners have reported difficulty using the manual override feature when the power liftgate system fails.
The liftgate can become stiff and difficult to operate manually, which is particularly bothersome during emergencies. This stiffness is often due to the hydraulic system resisting manual movement because it’s designed to work alongside the motor.
Replacing the hydraulic struts or following the vehicle manual’s steps for manual operation can help reduce resistance and make the liftgate easier to use without power.
7. Liftgate Not Latching Properly
Owners of 2017-2021 RX 350s have reported problems with the power liftgate not latching securely, which can leave the rear hatch unfastened.
This often triggers a dashboard warning; the liftgate can sometimes open while driving. Cold weather conditions can worsen the problem, as moisture can cause the latch to freeze or become stiff.
Regularly lubricating and realigning the latch should ensure proper operation, especially during cold weather. A dealership may need to adjust or replace the latch assembly if the issue persists.
Conclusion
Problems with the Lexus RX 350’s power liftgate can range from minor inconveniences to severe malfunctions that affect the vehicle’s usability and safety.
Common issues like the liftgate not fully opening or closing, unresponsive buttons or strange motor noises often have straightforward fixes, such as cleaning sensors, replacing worn components, or updating software.
Regular maintenance and attention to the liftgate’s mechanical and electrical systems can help prevent many of these issues.
For more complex problems, consulting a professional or visiting a dealership is the best way to ensure a reliable and lasting fix.
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