Lexus Is problems
The Lexus IS (Japanese: レクサス・IS, Hepburn: Rekusasu IS) is a compact executive car (D-segment in Europe) sold by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota, since 1998. The IS was originally sold under the Toyota Altezza (Japanese: トヨタ・アルテッツァ, Hepburn: Toyota Arutettsua) nameplate in Japan from 1998 (the word Altezza is Italian for 'height' or 'highness'). The IS was introduced as an entry-level sport model positioned below the ES in the Lexus lineup.
The first-generation Altezza (codename XE10) was launched in Japan in October 1998, while the Lexus IS 200 (GXE10) made its debut in Europe in 1999 and in North America as the IS 300 (JCE10) in 2000. The first-generation models were powered by a straight-six engine and available in sedan and wagon variants. The second-generation IS (codename XE20) was launched globally in 2005 with V6-powered IS 250 (GSE20) and IS 350 (GSE21) sedan models, followed by a high-performance V8 sedan version, the IS F, in 2007, and coupé convertible versions, the IS 250 C and IS 350 C, in 2008. The third-generation Lexus IS premiered in January 2013 and includes the V6-powered IS 350 and IS 250, turbocharged IS 200t/300, hybrid IS 300h and performance-tuned F Sport variants. The IS designation stands for "Intelligent Sport".
First generation (XE10; 1998)
Produced as a direct competitor to the luxury sports sedans of the leading European luxury marques, the XE10 series Toyota Altezza and Lexus IS was designed with a greater performance emphasis than typically seen on prior Japanese luxury vehicles. The engineering work was led by Nobuaki Katayama from 1994 to 1998 under the 038T program code, who was responsible for the AE86 project. Design work which had been done in 1995 by Tomoyasu Nishi was frozen in 1996 and filed under patent number 1030135 on 5 December 1996, at the Japan Patent Office. At its introduction to Japan, it was exclusive to Japanese dealerships called Toyota Netz Store, until Lexus was introduced to Japan in 2006. The Japan-sold AS200 Altezza sedan and AS300 Altezza Gita correspond to the Lexus IS 200 and IS 300 models respectively, as sold in markets outside of Japan. The Lexus IS' primary markets were North America, Australia, and Europe. The Altezza Gita was a hatchback-station wagon version sold in Japan and was known in the US and Europe as the Lexus IS SportCross. The AS300 Altezza Gita was the only Altezza with the 2JZ-GE engine; in export markets this engine was available in the sedan models as well as the Lexus IS300 Sedan.
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Lexus Is model years
Common Lexus Is problems
Lexus vehicles, while known for their luxury, comfort, and sleek design, are not immune to problems. Some issues are more common than others, and this article will delve into those problems, drawing from complaints from Lexus owners.
- Water Leaks: Water leaking into the car's cabin is another common issue, particularly in models with sun or moonroof areas. This issue typically occurs around 20,000 – 30,000 miles but can cause rusting within and around the vehicle if left unchecked or unrepaired. Regular inspections and cleaning of the car's parts can help avoid water leaks.
- Power Steering Rack: Lexus vehicles can be prone to developing leaks within the power steering system due to the wear and tear of components over time. Regular servicing and checking for loose fittings at connection points can prevent irreversible issues.
- Sensor Problems: Modern cars, including Lexus, are becoming more technologically advanced, increasing the opportunities for things to go wrong. Older Lexus models, in particular, face issues with the O2 sensor and the Check Engine light, which may turn on or off without any given reason. Other models also experience problems with parking assistance sensors. These issues are usually simple to fix, often requiring a system reset.
- Cracking Dashboard: Lexus is known for its luxurious, stylish vehicles, but a crack along the dashboard can detract from the sleek finish. This issue is due to the PVC reacting to UV and heat exposure, causing premature cracking. Lexus did put out an offer to cover the cost for any replacements needed in affected models.
In conclusion, while Lexus vehicles are known for their luxury, comfort, and sleek design, they are not immune to problems. Regular servicing, monitoring, and addressing issues promptly can help ensure the longevity and optimal performance of these vehicles.
What is the most common problem with Lexus?
One of the most prevalent issues that plague Lexus cars is oil leakage. While this problem is not unique to Lexus vehicles, they seem to be particularly prone to premature leaks. Many Lexus owners report experiencing oil leaks as early as 8,000 miles into the car's life.
What year is Lexus to stay away from?
Which Lexus IS Vehicles Are the Least Reliable? There are certainly some used Lexus IS models you should avoid, including: 2007 Lexus IS 250, which is known for power steering failures, flickering headlights, and faulty airbag sensors. 2008 Lexus IS 250, which has 308 record complaints according to the NHTSA.
What are the most common problems with a Lexus IS250?
Common Problems With The Lexus IS 250
- Dashboard Melting. ...
- Door Panels Melting. ...
- Infotainment Not Working. ...
- Inside Rear-View Mirror Discoloring. ...
- Intermittent Power Steering. ...
- Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You.
What is the life expectancy of a Lexus IS250?
300,000 miles
Mileage Expectancy: The Lexus IS 250 is known to last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Some owners have even reported pushing their cars to 300,000 miles or more. That's a testament to Lexus' build quality and durability.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Is years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Is cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Is model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Is model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Is years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Is car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Is , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Unknown or other problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
- Wheels problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Is vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Is model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Is . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Is vehicles.
List of Lexus Is complaints
Lexus Is 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-04
- VIN: JTHBA1D27H5
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: It was regular morning on memorial day and I had not used the car all weekend since I really dont drive unless it to and back from work. I started the engine like would any other day and the car began to shake out of nowhere. The check engine went off, the yield sign went off and the traction control went off. I thought maybe it was time to change my brakes because the dealership had recommended it. I changed my brakes and got new tires but the car still shook. I continued to drive like that to work because I had no choice it shaked mostly on idle and I drove like that for a few days on Friday as I was coming back from work on the freeway the car shook in the freeway as I exit out the freeway the car felt almost if I couldn't pick up an speed and I got extremely scared with the cars flying by. I decided not to drive and take it to a nearby mechanic I thought maybe the spark plugs or coils might be the issue but after 3 days in the shop and replacing spark plugs he confirmed it was the direct fuel pump and possibly the fuel injector....my car is only used to drive to and back from work and only has 58k miles. I believe this is a default manufacturer part and I need help recalling this particular part on my vehicle.
Lexus Is 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-18
- VIN: JTHBA1D2XH5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Lexus IS 200t. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the rain, water leaked into the dashboard causing the headlights to fail. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic, and it was determined to be a manufacturing defect. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 96,000.
Lexus Is 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-12
- VIN: JTHBA1D20H5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Odometer rolled back by Lexus of Orange in Jacksonville, FL. All parties involved have provided title paperwork, except Lexus of Orange in Jacksonville, FL.
Lexus Is 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-02
- VIN: JTHCZ1D21J5
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: All four (4) door actuators stopped working or work intermittently. This is a known issue with both front and rear driver and passenger doors. Automobile doors will not open.
Lexus Is 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-15
- VIN: JTHBZ1D22J5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Sunroof suddenly exploded while driving on highway, no debris or accident happened. Spontaneous sunroof glass shatter
Lexus Is 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-04
- VIN: JTHGZ1B26M5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The sunroof exploded while driving on a freeway. No rocks were involved, very loud explosion. Sun shade was closed, which prevented glass from getting inside car.
Lexus Is 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-25
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-10
- VIN: JTHBE1D25H5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: When driving on the highway for about 45 mins the steering will feel sticky or “lock up” and make changing lanes very hard. The steering wheel will be hard to move, and you have to “break free” which causes a very sharp lane change that you have to recorrect. This is not safe, others have reported the same issues on forums.
Lexus Is 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-03
- VIN: JTHFE2C22F2
- Components: WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: On Friday, September 15, 2023 3:00PM, I had a “horrible” experience with my Lexus this weekend and sudden unintended acceleration. I was sitting at a red light, with my foot on the brake. Without warning the engine began to rev, the tires squealed and the car lurched forward. I through the car into park & turned of the car as quickly as I could react and “thank god” no one was injured and there was no accident. I was in the car with my wife and she reminded me she had a similar experience a month ago. I didn’t know what to think when she told me. Until I experienced it myself I didn’t really understand how dangerous this problem is. She experience this sudden unintended acceleration when the car was in park after she got in the car and started it. I’ve read of this sudden unintended acceleration but never experienced it until this weekend. It was exactly this.. an unintended, unexpected, uncontrolled acceleration of a vehicle, accompanied by an apparent loss of braking effectiveness. This was not driver error. It is some kind of mechanical, software problem, electrical problem, or some combination of these factors. There was no driver error. This is not an issue with the floor mats. I drove the car home into the garage. I took it to the dealership the first available appointment on Monday. I had another incident on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. I was at the gym. My wife went to move my car as my parking time limit in La Jolla had expired. She experience sudden unintended acceleration when the car was in park after she got in the car and started it. The car had high engine revs and the car lurched forward while in park. The Lexus Dealership kept the car for a week. Mileage 67,249 Vehicle Report - [XXX]. Reviewed and analyzed by Lexus Factory. No recommended repairs are needed or required at this time. I opened TAS Case# [XXX] . I contacted Lexus Product Liability Team Case # [XXX] but, no one from corporate will look at the car. What should do? [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Lexus Is 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-25
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-19
- VIN: JTHBF1D25F5
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When driving at high speeds on the highway (75-85mph) after about 20 mins or so, the steering wheel feels like it locks up or gets stuck. The only way to get it back to normal is to jerk the wheel a bit resulting in swerving. This happens almost everytime I travel across the state. The car has passed all inspections at the Lexus Dealer. This past visit to the dealership, the tie rod was found to be corroded, however the technician does not believe that is the issue. We believe it is the steering rack. This car has not been in any major accidents and was having this safety issue prior to a slight fender bender. The issue is a huge safety concern because the steering wheel "stops respondings" and needs to be jerked or swerved to go back to normal.
Lexus Is 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-05
- VIN: JTHCF1D25F5
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The paint is cracking and peeling off. Car is in great shape otherwise and has been kept clean and well maintained. Unsure why the paint is coming off.
Lexus Is 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-17
- VIN: JTHCF1D22F5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Lexus IS250. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the radio and infotainment center failed to function properly. Additionally, there was a burning odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the stereo amplifier located in the trunk was submerged in water. The location of the water intrusion was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 88,000.
Lexus Is 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2018-06-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SUNROOF SHATTERED WHILE I WAS DRIVING.
Latest 5 recalls Lexus Is
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 22 recalls for different components of the Lexus Is.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lexus Is 2009
- Report Received Date: 2011-01-26
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 LEXUS IS AND MODEL YEAR 2006-2007 LEXUS GS VEHICLES. DUE TO INSUFFICIENT TIGHTENING OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR CONNECTED TO AN ENGINE FUEL DELIVERY PIPE WITH NICKEL PHOSPHORUS PLATING, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT, OVER TIME, THE PRESSURE SENSOR COULD LOOSEN. IF LOOSENING OCCURS, FUEL COULD LEAK PAST A GASKET USED IN THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE PIPE AND THROUGH THE THREADED PORTION OF THE SENSOR.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE THREADED PORTION OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR AND IF A FUEL LEAK IS NOT CONFIRMED, DEALERS WILL FURTHER TIGHTEN THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR WITH THE PROPER TORQUE. IF A FUEL LEAK IS CONFIRMED, THE GASKET BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE FUEL DELIVER PIPE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE, AND THE SENSOR WILL BE TIGHTENED WITH THE PROPER TORQUE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 7, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Model: Lexus Is 2006
- Report Received Date: 2011-01-26
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 LEXUS IS AND MODEL YEAR 2006-2007 LEXUS GS VEHICLES. DUE TO INSUFFICIENT TIGHTENING OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR CONNECTED TO AN ENGINE FUEL DELIVERY PIPE WITH NICKEL PHOSPHORUS PLATING, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT, OVER TIME, THE PRESSURE SENSOR COULD LOOSEN. IF LOOSENING OCCURS, FUEL COULD LEAK PAST A GASKET USED IN THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE PIPE AND THROUGH THE THREADED PORTION OF THE SENSOR.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE THREADED PORTION OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR AND IF A FUEL LEAK IS NOT CONFIRMED, DEALERS WILL FURTHER TIGHTEN THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR WITH THE PROPER TORQUE. IF A FUEL LEAK IS CONFIRMED, THE GASKET BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE FUEL DELIVER PIPE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE, AND THE SENSOR WILL BE TIGHTENED WITH THE PROPER TORQUE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 7, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Model: Lexus Is 2007
- Report Received Date: 2011-01-26
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 LEXUS IS AND MODEL YEAR 2006-2007 LEXUS GS VEHICLES. DUE TO INSUFFICIENT TIGHTENING OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR CONNECTED TO AN ENGINE FUEL DELIVERY PIPE WITH NICKEL PHOSPHORUS PLATING, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT, OVER TIME, THE PRESSURE SENSOR COULD LOOSEN. IF LOOSENING OCCURS, FUEL COULD LEAK PAST A GASKET USED IN THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE PIPE AND THROUGH THE THREADED PORTION OF THE SENSOR.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE THREADED PORTION OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR AND IF A FUEL LEAK IS NOT CONFIRMED, DEALERS WILL FURTHER TIGHTEN THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR WITH THE PROPER TORQUE. IF A FUEL LEAK IS CONFIRMED, THE GASKET BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE FUEL DELIVER PIPE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE, AND THE SENSOR WILL BE TIGHTENED WITH THE PROPER TORQUE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 7, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Model: Lexus Is 2008
- Report Received Date: 2011-01-26
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 LEXUS IS AND MODEL YEAR 2006-2007 LEXUS GS VEHICLES. DUE TO INSUFFICIENT TIGHTENING OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR CONNECTED TO AN ENGINE FUEL DELIVERY PIPE WITH NICKEL PHOSPHORUS PLATING, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT, OVER TIME, THE PRESSURE SENSOR COULD LOOSEN. IF LOOSENING OCCURS, FUEL COULD LEAK PAST A GASKET USED IN THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE PIPE AND THROUGH THE THREADED PORTION OF THE SENSOR.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE THREADED PORTION OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR AND IF A FUEL LEAK IS NOT CONFIRMED, DEALERS WILL FURTHER TIGHTEN THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR WITH THE PROPER TORQUE. IF A FUEL LEAK IS CONFIRMED, THE GASKET BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE FUEL DELIVER PIPE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE, AND THE SENSOR WILL BE TIGHTENED WITH THE PROPER TORQUE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 7, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Model: Lexus Is 2006
- Report Received Date: 2010-10-21
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 AVALON, MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 LEXUS RX, AND MODEL YEAR 2006 LEXUS GS AND IS VEHICLES. BRAKE FLUID CONTAINING POLYMERS IS USED THAT ACTS AS LUBRICANTS FOR CERTAIN BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS. IF REPLACEMENT BRAKE FLUID IS USED THAT DOES NOT CONTAIN SUCH POLYMERS, OR THAT CONTAINS ONLY SMALL AMOUNTS, A PART OF THE RUBBER SEAL LOCATED AT THE REAR OF THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER MAY BECOME DRY, AND THE SEAL MAY CURL DURING MOVEMENT OF THE PISTON. IF THIS OCCURS, A SMALL AMOUNT OF BRAKE FLUID COULD SLOWLY LEAK FROM THE SEAL INTO THE BRAKE BOOSTER.
- Consequence: A LEAK OF BRAKE FLUID COULD LEAD TO A CHANGE IN BRAKE PEDAL FEEL AND OVERTIME A DEGRADATION IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAL WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED ONE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 AND LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.
Latest positive Lexus Is car reviews
Are you having problems with your Lexus Is?
Herman Doyle 2024-03-29
Vehicle year: 2024
It seems like the car could benefit from a bit more power, and the back seat and trunk areas are on the smaller side. However, overall it's a great car!
Modesto Hagenes 2024-03-13
Vehicle year: 2024
Perfect combination of style and elegance with sporty drive. For the driver, everything is intuitive and makes sense. This car is well done!