When you think of bulletproof reliability in the luxury SUV world, the Lexus LX instantly comes to mind. Built on the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser platform, this flagship SUV is known for durability, power, and unmatched comfort.
However, even premium machines can face technical hiccups. In a recent development, Lexus India has issued a recall for the Lexus LX due to a potential transmission-related issue.
Let’s know what this means for buyers and the brand’s reputation.
Recall
Lexus India, the luxury arm of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, has announced a recall affecting 117 units of the Lexus LX. These vehicles were manufactured between 06 March 2025 and 29 September 2025.
The Lexus LX is priced at Rs 2.80 crore (ex-showroom), placing it among the most premium SUVs in India. Naturally, any recall involving such a high-end model attracts attention.
This recall is also aligned with a global recall issued by Lexus for the same issue, showing that the company is taking uniform corrective action worldwide.
Issue
So, what exactly is the problem?
The Lexus LX is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission that uses linear solenoids to control gear shifts. These solenoids play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and precise gear changes.
Under certain driving conditions, if a solenoid fails, the transmission control unit (TCU) and the engine ECU may fail to properly communicate the malfunction due to a software issue. In simple terms, the system may not immediately detect the problem.
If left unaddressed, this could result in transmission over-revving in certain gears. That’s like forcing the engine to work harder than it should — something no luxury SUV owner wants.
Risk
According to Lexus, the issue could lead to:
- Transmission damage
- Loss of motive power at higher speeds
- Possible transmission fluid leakage if the housing gets damaged
Loss of motive power, especially at highway speeds, can be a serious safety concern. While no widespread incidents have been reported publicly, the recall aims to prevent any potential risk before it escalates.
This proactive approach reflects Toyota’s broader philosophy — fix the problem before it becomes a crisis.
Fix
The good news? The solution is straightforward.
Lexus will update the control unit firmware to address the software glitch. This update ensures that the transmission control unit and engine ECU can properly detect and respond to solenoid failures.
Owners of affected vehicles will be contacted by Lexus India for the corrective update. As with most recalls, the fix will be carried out free of cost.
Think of it as a software patch for your smartphone — small update, big protection.
Engine
Currently, the Indian market offers the Lexus LX 500d variant. It comes powered by a 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 diesel engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Here are the key specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L Twin-Turbo V6 Diesel |
| Power | 304 hp |
| Torque | 700 Nm |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Suspension | Adaptive Variable Suspension |
| Height Control | Four-Wheel Active Height Control |
With 700 Nm of torque, the LX delivers effortless acceleration despite its large size. It combines luxury with serious off-road capability, staying true to its Land Cruiser DNA.
Platform
The Lexus LX shares its underpinnings with the Toyota Land Cruiser. This platform is globally respected for its durability and off-road strength.
That’s what makes this recall particularly noteworthy. The LX has always been marketed as a symbol of dependability and engineering excellence. This is the fourth recall for the current generation since its debut, which slightly dents that image.
However, it’s important to see the bigger picture. Recalls are not uncommon in the automotive industry, even among luxury brands. In fact, issuing a recall often shows responsibility rather than weakness.
Impact
Does this damage Lexus’ reputation?
In the short term, it may raise eyebrows. But in the long run, transparent communication and quick corrective action usually strengthen consumer trust.
Luxury buyers expect perfection. When a vehicle costs Rs 2.80 crore, even minor issues feel magnified. However, the fact that Lexus is proactively addressing the issue and aligning with global recall standards indicates its commitment to quality and safety.
For existing owners, the key takeaway is simple — get the update done and continue enjoying the luxury and performance the LX offers.
Despite this recall, the Lexus LX remains one of the most capable and luxurious SUVs in the Indian market. With powerful performance, advanced suspension, and premium comfort, it continues to be a flagship offering.
While the recall highlights a technical concern, the swift software fix ensures that the issue is manageable. In the world of automobiles, even giants need updates — and how a brand handles them often matters more than the issue itself.
FAQs
Why is Lexus LX recalled?
Due to a possible transmission software issue.
How many units are affected?
117 units in India.
What is the LX 500d engine output?
304 hp and 700 Nm torque.
Is the recall fix free?
Yes, firmware update is free of cost.
What is LX price in India?
Starts at Rs 2.80 crore ex-showroom.
