According to Au7o's analysis of 4,800+ owner reports, the 2015-2025 Lexus NX has 2 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is Infotainment System Lag and Touchpad Issues with 3,000 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $ to $. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2015-2021 Lexus NX, the first-generation NX infotainment system with the Remote Touch Interface touchpad suffers from significant lag and poor usability. The touchpad is difficult to control precisely while driving, and the system responds slowly to inputs. Menu navigation and destination entry are frustratingly cumbersome compared to touchscreen competitors.
Update the navigation and multimedia software to the latest version at the dealer. The 2018+ models received improved software. If available, use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (added in 2020 update) to bypass the native interface. Voice commands work more reliably than the touchpad for most functions.
What you need to fix it
The exact parts — OEM, plus what owners actually use. Skip the internet hunt.
From owners — upgrades & tips (3,000+ fixed this)
TipThe 2020 software update that adds Apple CarPlay support is a game-changer for first-gen NX owners. The CarPlay interface is dramatically faster and more intuitive than the native system.
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High Confidence3,000 reportsLast reported by owners Jan 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
Community Reported
1,800 owners
On the 2022-2025 Lexus NX, the second-generation NX with the eCVT hybrid and Direct Shift CVT exhibits a droning noise and rubber band sensation during moderate acceleration. The CVT holds the engine at high RPM while vehicle speed increases gradually, creating a disconnected feeling between throttle input and vehicle response that many owners find unpleasant.
Engine drones at constant high RPM during acceleration
Disconnected feeling between throttle and speed
Rubber band sensation when pressing accelerator
Noticeable engine noise at highway merging speeds
How to Fix
This is largely a design characteristic of the CVT, though software updates have improved the shift simulation logic. Visit the dealer for the latest ECU calibration. Using Sport mode provides more responsive behavior with simulated shift points that reduce the rubber band feeling.
What you need to fix it
The exact parts — OEM, plus what owners actually use. Skip the internet hunt.
From owners — upgrades & tips (1,800+ fixed this)
TipUse Sport mode in situations where you want responsive acceleration — it adds simulated gear shifts that make the CVT feel much more like a traditional automatic and largely eliminates the rubber band effect.
Part links may earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Medium Confidence1,800 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
⚠️NHTSA Recalls6 recalls
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024 Lexus RX 350, RX 350h, 2024-2025 NX 250, NX 350, and NX 350h vehicles. The head restraints on the driver and front passenger seats may be inadvertently removed without pressing the lock release button. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) Number 202, "Head Restraints."
Campaign #24V48200027/06/2024
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:WEBBING
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid, Lexus NX250, NX350, NX350 Hybrid, 2024-2025 Lexus RX350, RX350 Hybrid, and RX500 Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center seat belt webbing may be damaged. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."
Campaign #25V05900006/02/2025
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024 RAV4 and 2025 Lexus NX vehicles. Some of the bolts that secure the front brake caliper and the wheel hub bearing may be loose, which can result in a damaged caliper brake hose or possible wheel detachment.
Campaign #24V91100005/12/2024
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Campaign #25V74400030/10/2025
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2025 Lexus NX350, NX250, 2023-2026 RX350, and 2024-2026 TX350 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
According to Au7o's analysis of 4,800+ owner reports, the 2015-2025 Lexus NX has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Infotainment System Lag and Touchpad Issues, CVT Drone and Rubber Band Effect. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
Is the Lexus NX reliable?
The 2015-2025 Lexus NX has 2 known issues documented across 4,800+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
What year Lexus NX is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Lexus NX. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2015-2025 Lexus NX with 2 documented issues documented across 4,800+ owner reports.
What is the 2015-2021 Lexus NX Infotainment System Lag and Touchpad Issues?
The first-generation NX infotainment system with the Remote Touch Interface touchpad suffers from significant lag and poor usability. The touchpad is difficult to control precisely while driving, and the system responds slowly to inputs. Menu navigation and destination entry are… Severity: low.
What is the 2022-2025 Lexus NX CVT Drone and Rubber Band Effect?
The second-generation NX with the eCVT hybrid and Direct Shift CVT exhibits a droning noise and rubber band sensation during moderate acceleration. The CVT holds the engine at high RPM while vehicle speed increases gradually, creating a disconnected feeling between throttle input… Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
