Lexus's first dedicated electric crossover, built on the e-TNGA platform shared with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra. The DIRECT4 system pairs a 150 kW front motor with an 80 kW rear motor for a combined 313 hp, distributing torque dynamically between axles. Conservative battery management protecting a 71.4 kWh pack delivers up to 440 km WLTP range in a refined premium package.· more· less
12V battery loses charge within 5-10 days of parking, leaving the car completely unresponsive · more· less
Multiple owners on rzforums.com and ClubLexus report the 12V auxiliary battery dying after 5-10 days of the car being parked. When this happens, the car becomes entirely non-functional: doors do not open, the main display stays dark, and the vehicle cannot be started. The DC-DC converter should trickle charge the 12V battery from the high-voltage pack, but this system has intermittent failures on some units. Some owners suspect the Lexus Link+ connected services app contributes to parasitic drain. A quality trickle charger (CTEK MXS 5.0 recommended) connected when the car is parked for extended periods is the most effective prevention. Replacement 12V batteries cost €150-350 depending on the AGM type used.
HVAC electrical compressor failure
€800 - 2,5002 of 5
Electrical AC compressor can fail, disabling heating, cooling, and windshield defogging · more· less
A recall (EU campaign 25SD-075) covers 2023-2025 models for an HVAC compressor failure that can disable the defroster and defogger system. During certain fault conditions, both the heat pump and resistive backup heater can become inoperative simultaneously. Dealers update the HVAC control ECU software and inspect the compressor, replacing it free of charge if necessary. For post-warranty vehicles or recurring failures outside recall scope, compressor replacement costs €1,500-2,500 including parts and labor. Some owners also report slow cabin heating in cold weather, with 10-15 minutes needed before adequate warmth is produced.
Infotainment system freezing and rebooting
€0 - 3003 of 5
Touchscreen occasionally freezes, goes blank, or reboots spontaneously during driving · more· less
Owners report the infotainment display freezing mid-use or rebooting spontaneously, temporarily losing navigation, audio, and climate controls display. A soft reset (hold the power/volume knob for 10 seconds) typically resolves the immediate freeze. Lexus addresses these through software updates, which can be applied over the air via the RZ's data communication module or during dealer service visits. Hardware failure requiring screen replacement is rare and typically covered under warranty. Most issues are resolved through cumulative software updates, making the real-world cost zero to minimal (€0-300 for a dealer software flash on out-of-warranty cars).
Interior trim rattles and mirror vibration
€0 - 5004 of 5
Side mirrors vibrate over bumps and dashboard trim can develop rattles, particularly in cold weather · more· less
Some owners report that the driver-side mirror vibrates noticeably when driving over small bumps, and headlight assemblies can vibrate at highway speeds. Dashboard and A-pillar trim can also develop rattles, especially in cold weather when plastic contracts. Most of these are resolved under warranty through clip replacement, additional padding, or revised parts. Post-warranty repair typically costs €100-500 depending on the component. These are cosmetic and comfort issues rather than functional or safety concerns.
Rear drivetrain humming noise
€0 - 1,5005 of 5
Noticeable humming from the rear at 55-75 km/h, may indicate rear motor or bearing wear · more· less
Some owners report a distinct humming from the rear end, typically at 55-75 km/h, which disappears above or below this speed range. Dealers have had difficulty diagnosing the root cause, with several attributing it to normal EV motor characteristics under certain load conditions. If the noise originates from a worn bearing in the rear e-axle assembly, replacement is expensive but would be covered under the powertrain warranty (3 years / 100,000 km, extendable via Lexus Relax). Post-warranty rear e-axle bearing or motor work could cost €1,000-1,500. The issue appears infrequent based on forum reporting and may be related to specific production batches.
Reliable for a first-generation EV, with typical teething issues
The Lexus RZ 450e benefits from Toyota's conservative engineering approach and well-proven battery chemistry. Most reported issues are software-related and addressed through updates or recalls. The 12V battery drain is the most practical concern for owners who leave the car parked for extended periods. No widespread reports of motor, inverter, or high-voltage battery failures exist after three years on the market. The Lexus Relax warranty program, extendable to 15 years / 250,000 km with annual dealer service, provides above-average coverage for used buyers.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Lexus dealer records essential. Annual dealer service is required to maintain the Lexus Relax extended warranty, which can cover the car up to 15 years / 250,000 km.
Tires
Check tread depth, age, and uneven wear. The RZ weighs 2,130 kg and wears tires faster than ICE crossovers. Staggered 20-inch fitment cannot be rotated front-to-rear.
Test drive
Drive for at least 30 minutes including highway speeds to bring all systems to operating temperature and allow any intermittent issues to manifest.
Body condition
Check all panels, bumpers, and wheel arches for parking damage. The 2,130 kg kerb weight means even minor impacts can cause more structural damage than expected.
Specific for this vehicle
Check 12V battery voltage
Use a multimeter on the 12V battery. Should read 12.4V or higher. Low voltage suggests the DC-DC converter trickle charge system is not functioning correctly.
Verify HVAC recall completed
EU campaign 25SD-075 covers 2023-2025 models for HVAC compressor failure. Contact Lexus with VIN to confirm the software update and compressor inspection are completed.
Verify rearview camera recall completed
EU campaign 25SD-108 (KBA 15777R) addresses a software error causing the rearview camera to freeze or blank in reverse. Confirm update is applied.
+ 4 more checksShow less
Test infotainment system thoroughly
Navigate through all menus, test Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and climate controls. Watch for freezing, lag, or spontaneous reboots during the test drive.
Listen for rear drivetrain hum at 55-75 km/h
Drive on a smooth road at varying speeds between 50 and 80 km/h. A pronounced hum from the rear may indicate a rear e-axle bearing issue.
Test DC fast charging if possible
Verify the car charges at expected rates (peak near 150 kW below 20% SOC). Significantly lower rates may indicate a battery or charging system fault.
Check battery state of health
Request the high-voltage battery health report from a Lexus dealer. Capacity should be above 90% for cars under 50,000 km.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
HVAC defroster/defogger system failure due to electrical compressor malfunction (2023-2025)Verify completed
Panoramic View Monitor rearview camera freeze or blank screen in reverse (2023-2025)Verify completed
Contact Lexus with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The HVAC compressor recall is particularly important, as driving in cold weather without a functioning defroster poses a safety risk.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km)May still apply on 2023+ models
Lexus Relax extended warrantyUp to 15 years / 250,000 km with annual dealer service
High-voltage battery8 years / 160,000 km (70% capacity guarantee)
Rust perforation warranty12 years
The Lexus Relax program is a significant advantage for used buyers. It extends warranty coverage up to 15 years or 250,000 km, provided the car has been serviced annually at a Lexus dealer. Verify the service history and Lexus Relax status with the VIN before purchase.
Sources: Research draws on model-specific owner forums and owner communities, recall information from official authorities, German automotive press, and multiple workshop cost references cross-checked against each other.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.
