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2023 Lexus NX Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jul 5, 2026·Ethan Miller·8 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary ownership concern is the driver's airbag system, linked to a critical recall for a potentially faulty spiral cable assembly.
  • Verify that recall campaign 25V040000, concerning the driver's airbag deactivation, has been completed by a qualified technician.
  • Numerous recalls related to the rearview camera system exist; confirm these software updates or component replacements have been performed.
  • Despite a high recall count, consumer complaints are notably absent, suggesting issues are addressed via recalls.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Lexus NX

The 2023 Lexus NX offers a premium compact SUV experience, but used car shoppers must navigate a significant recall landscape. While consumer complaints are absent, a high volume of recalls, particularly one affecting the driver's airbag, warrants careful consideration. Its 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive delivers a refined, if not overtly sporty, driving experience. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. However, the substantial number of recalls, including critical safety items, suggests potential repair costs and necessitates diligent pre-purchase inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall addresses a potentially insufficiently welded electrical connection in the spiral cable assembly, which can lead to the driver's airbag deactivating. This is a safety-critical component.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls84
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.3/ 10

Practicality

0.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing a comfortable and quiet cabin over outright performance.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a flawless reliability record and minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Lexus NX Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Lexus NX.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
25

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Most Common Issues

1. Driver Airbag Deactivation

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Rearview Camera Display Malfunction

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake Lines and Hoses - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
84 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Lexus NX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Lexus NX is 6.3/10. Reliability score is 6.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 84. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 Lexus NX for daily use?▾

EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Lexus NX?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Lexus NX is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Lexus NX?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake Lines and Hoses - Inspect Wiper Blades at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Driver Airbag Spiral Cable Assembly (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2023 Lexus NX?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2023 Lexus NX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Lexus NX, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2023 NX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Lexus NX?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Lexus NX?▾

15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2023 Lexus NX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Lexus NX, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Lexus NX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Lexus NX, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Lexus NX?▾

This model year has 84 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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