2021 LEXUS RX

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

1RecallsNHTSA Verified0ComplaintsLimited Data0InvestigationsLimited Data
Expert Verdict
ℹ️Average Safety Profile

The 2021 Lexus RX showcases a commendable reliability profile, albeit with a notable recall affecting the airbag system. The potential short circuit in the Occupant Classification System is a vital consideration for passenger safety, especially for those with children in the back seat.

Key Factor:Airbag system concerns

📋Why This Matters

In vehicles such as the Lexus RX, the safety and functionality of airbags are paramount. The recall regarding the airbag system highlights how a short circuit in the Occupant Classification System could potentially prevent proper deployment during a collision. For families, particularly those with young children in the back seat, ensuring that these safety features work correctly is crucial to safeguarding their well-being on the road.

Focus Area:Safety Profile
📊

Expert Analysis

  • 📈
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • ⚠️
    Primary Risk Area:Various
  • ⚖️
    Vs Brand: Worse than avg (0.8)
    📝
    Summary: The overall safety trend for the 2021 Lexus RX indicates an average risk profile due to its single recall related to airbag functionality. While this aligns with expectations for vehicles of its segment, any concerns regarding critical systems like airbags deserve careful attention from current owners and prospective buyers alike.
Critical Component: Various

Safety & Reliability Score

90/100
Excellent

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-8
Complaint Impact-1.75
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 LEXUS RX

Model Year2021
MakeLEXUS
ModelRX
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
May21
ISSUEFirst Report
✅

No Consumer Complaints Reported

Great news! There are currently no consumer complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2021 LEXUS RX. This is a positive indicator of owner satisfaction.

🛠️ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

AIR BAGS

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Airbags

Issue: Potential short circuit may prevent front passenger airbag deployment.

✅

Contact your dealer immediately to verify if your vehicle is affected and arrange for necessary repairs.

🔍

Inquire about any recalls or repairs completed on the airbag system before finalizing any purchase.

Campaign:21V648000
💡Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your LEXUS dealer to verify recall completion status.

Official Safety Recalls (1)

Campaign: 23V865000

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION

Summary

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.

Consequence

An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations
✓

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

0 complaints
✓

No consumer complaints recorded for this vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common issues reported for the 2021 Lexus RX?

While there are no widespread complaints reported against the 2021 Lexus RX apart from its single recall related to airbags, it's advisable for owners or buyers to stay informed about any technical service bulletins that may address minor operational issues or feature enhancements.

How does the airbag issue affect child passenger safety in the Lexus RX?

'The issue surrounding potential non-deployment of front passenger airbags due to a fault in the Occupant Classification System puts children at risk if they are seated next to an adult who may not be properly classified by this sensor. Ensuring that this system functions correctly is vital for optimal protection during an accident.'

📊Year-over-Year Context

➡️Stable Pattern

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.

🧭What This Means for You

Families with young passengers, pregnant drivers, or those with frequent highway commutes should prioritize this information.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

🔑

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Immediate Action: If any recalls are listed as 'incomplete', contact a certified LEXUS service center—repairs are performed at no cost to you.
  • Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
  • Proactive tip: Enroll in LEXUS's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
🛒

If You're Buying Used

  • Request the VIN from the seller and verify the 'Clean' recall status via NHTSA.
  • This specific RX year is noted for its strong reliability foundations.
⚖️

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Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: February 23, 2026.