Lexus Is 300 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 300 model years
Common Lexus Is 300 problems
The Lexus IS300, a popular choice among luxury car enthusiasts, is known for its dependability and performance. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common issues. Here are some of the most frequently reported problems with the Lexus IS300, based on owner complaints and discussions found in search results:
- Sticky Dash: One of the most notorious issues with the IS300, particularly in the 2002-2005 models, is the sticky dash. The dashboard and center console, made of a rubbery material, tend to disintegrate and become sticky due to heat and wear. This can result in scratches and permanent fingerprints. To fix this issue, owners can send their dash to a shop for refurbishment or repainting, or replace it with a dash from a 2001 sedan.
- GPS Failure: Some IS300 models, especially those with GPS, may experience issues with the navigation system. This can include malfunctions, unresponsiveness, or complete failure. While not a major safety concern, it can be an inconvenience for drivers who rely on GPS for navigation.
- Tailgate Surface Rust: The IS300, particularly the IS300 Sport Cross, may suffer from surface rust on the tailgate. This is usually caused by exposure to the elements and can be more prevalent in regions with high humidity or salt on the roads. Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent or address this issue.
- Power Steering Leaks: The power steering system in the IS300 can develop leaks over time, which can lead to a loss of power steering assist and potential failure of the system. Regular maintenance and inspection can help identify and address leaks before they become a significant problem.
- Radiator Leaks: The IS300's radiator, particularly those with plastic tubing, can crack and leak coolant. This can lead to overheating and potential engine damage. Installing a performance radiator with metal tubing, such as the Mishimoto radiator, can help prevent this issue.
- Valve Cover Leaks: The valve cover gasket in the IS300 can leak oil, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. Regular maintenance and inspection can help identify and address valve cover leaks before they become a significant problem.
- O2 Sensor Failure: The IS300's O2 sensors, which monitor the vehicle's exhaust gases, can fail over time. This can lead to poor fuel efficiency, reduced performance, and potential engine damage. Replacing the faulty O2 sensor can help restore the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.
These common issues with the Lexus IS300 can be addressed with regular maintenance and inspection. While some issues, like the sticky dash, may require more significant repairs or replacements, most can be addressed with routine maintenance and care.
Is an IS300 reliable?
2001 IS 300 is a very reliable automobile!
I am the original owner of a 2001 IS300 Lexus. I currently have 270000 miles and I see the car running to at least 400 k easily, it's that strong. My alternator went out at 250,000 miles and my fuel pump went out at 260,000.
How long does IS300 engine last?
A Lexus IS300 should have no problem lasting over 200,000 miles as long as you take care of it. At the core of every Lexus vehicle is a Toyota engine that should be able to last a very long time. There are plenty of Lexus IS sedans out on the road that have over 200,000 miles on them.
Why is the Lexus IS300 so popular?
Solid Powertrain
Given the fact that the early IS300 is essentially just a Toyota Supra underneath its skin, the Lexus coupe could be had with the 2JZ-GE inline-six-cylinder powerplant, which is a beloved engine to this day - not to mention one that can be easily modified to generate massive amounts of power.
Is 300h issues?
One owner had rear shock absorbers that were weeping, a front parking sensor failure and a noisy whirring sound from the dash. We did come across a few reports of drivetrain vibrations. On the IS 300h models affected, this apparently sets in between 1,200 and 1,400rpm, so look out for that on your test drive.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Is 300 years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Is 300 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Is 300 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Is 300 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Is 300 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Is 300 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Is 300 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Engine problems
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Is 300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Is 300 model years
A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Is 300 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 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Is 300 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Is 300 vehicles.
List of Lexus Is 300 complaints
Lexus Is 300 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: JTHGZ1B29N5
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Lexus IS350. The contact stated that while taking the vehicle for the 6-month inspection, the contact was informed that the tires were completely worn and needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the tires needed to be replaced. The contact contacted the tire manufacturer Bridgestone Tires and was informed that the suspension bushings were too soft and needed to be replaced. The tires were not replaced. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and a case was opened for the failure. The failure mileage was 8,616.
Lexus Is 300 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-03
- VIN: JTHAP1D20N5
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Sudden engine stalling in the middle of a highway with extremely heavy traffic and stopped in the center lane. Needs to wait inside the car with a passenger in a very scary, tense situation and exposed to serious accident, until a towing arrive for about 1.5 hrs later. The car was towed to the dealer. Since I was in the middle of a highway, I wasn’t able to exit the car to verify the car. But, the engine stalling was compatible with fuel delivery starvation. The fuel tank was full. The starter spin and electric system was functional, so electric voltage was not an issue. No check engine light on, no alerts messages, nothing. Just suddenly engine power loose, stalling and the engine stop. Check engine light on after a lot of cranking. Never fire back.
Lexus Is 300 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-20
- VIN: JTHUP1D26N5
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The vehicle stalled while driving. I pulled over because as I press on the gas the car wouldn’t accelerate in speed . I turned the vehicle off and tried to start the car but it wouldn’t start . I was stranded on side the road for 4 hours to get a tow truck tow the vehicle to the Lexus dealer. No warning signs or indicators. Believe to the the fuel pump being bad and causing the issue.
Lexus Is 300 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-30
- VIN: JTHAP1D29N5
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: There has been a reported issue on the driver side with the bumper separating issue and ive had it replaced same issue and so has my buddy and im hearing that a recall should be coming in regards to fixing this issue. If you guys can figure out this problem im sure all of IS500 car owners would really appreciate it. The car cost too much to have this bumper separation issue. Thank you.
Lexus Is 300 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-20
- VIN: JTHA81F26L5
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
- Summary: The tires keep coming out of alignment which causes vehicle vibration, a pull to the left and premature wearing of the tires that then have to be replaced every 10-20K miles. Lexus is aware the IS series cars wear tires this way but state its bc this is a high performance vehicle. The vehicle vibration and driveline issues can get bad enough that it could pull a vehicle into a different lane potentially causing an accident. Had it into the Lexus dealership 6+ times for this and after replacement of tires (on 2nd visit) to the recommended tires for my vehicle, it still keeps happening. Then I take it in again and again, technician still can't find an issue and then they just rebalance and align the tires again. Then it's out of alignment again within a week to week and a half. Found out not long ago that the original owner also reported this EXACT same issue at 5K miles. Manufacturer has not inspected it to my knowledge but TONS of people in the clublexus.com forum mention this same issue continuously.
Lexus Is 300 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-12-05
- VIN: JTHD81F29N5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Unknown. Clicking sound coming from the passenger side of engine compartment by the vacuum pump. It occurs on cold starts and with the vehicle under load. I have video evidence of the sound. Not sure if it’s related but my breaks sometimes feel like they are not gripping as much
Lexus Is 300 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-16
- VIN: JTHAA1D20M5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: The Oil Housing Cap cracked during an oil change on my 2021 Lexus IS300. This occurred at my mechanics shop. I would have taken the car to the dealer but the cost for an oil change is double. The mechanic charged me for the part $55.25. When he went to purchase the part from JM Lexus, Sample Road, the parts person said this is a problem that should have been resolved. I called the Parts Manager at JM Lexus to verify this information. He stated that the part is weak and cracks and that this part needs to be replaced a few times a month. I wrote to the Executives at JM Lexus and they refuse to reimburse me because the car was not serviced there, however, the bigger problem is that this part needs to be retooled and owners recalled for replacement. For those in cold weather, could this part crack and leak oil? Will I be charged every time I get an oil change because of this defect?
Lexus Is 300 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-06
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHGA1D27L5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbags failed to deploy after the car went thru a brick wall at 35 miles per hour. Front impact crash. Car fax report reflects no prior accident. Vehicle was still under warranty & had the “auto nation 162 point check” June 2020 by Tampa Florida by Lexis of Tampa. NOT a single air bag deployed.
Lexus Is 300 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2018-05-17
- VIN: JTHBH96S465
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL EVERY TIME I DRIVE ON 60 AND ABOVE I SMELL GAS
Recalls Lexus Is 300
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Lexus Is 300.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lexus Is 300 2019
- Report Received Date: 2020-11-04
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
- Model: Lexus Is 300 2018
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-13
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.
- Model: Lexus Is 300 2019
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-13
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.
- Model: Lexus Is 300 2001
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Latest negative Lexus Is 300 car reviews
Latest positive Lexus Is 300 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2001
I've owned my is300 for about one year, and I have to say I continue to be impressed with both the car's performance ability and its quality. It's a terrific handling car with very good grip and steerability through the tightest of corners. The powerful and smooth inline 6 (same engine as the newer Supra) is a joy both for its great performance and everyday driving characteristics.
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Vehicle year: 2022
This car had a really smooth ride and all the bells and whistles. :)
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Vehicle year: 2020
I love everything about the car.
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Vehicle year: 2002
IS 300 has great looks and great performance. With the five-speed transmission, it is every reason I needed to never purchase the low-quality, poorly-conceived product offered by the 'Big 3' automakers. Every detail has been addressed by Lexus engineers to make a high-quality product that is fun to drive and easy to maintain. This car is worth every dollar you pay for it.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I am thoroughly impressed! Although it may sound silly, I find myself taking longer routes just to enjoy driving the IS300. This car is incredibly agile, at least as much as my 3-series if not more so, and definitely better than the Saab. I must also mention that I chose the IS300 after extensively test driving the A4 (3.0) and Infinity G35. After analyzing the performance, reliability, and cost, the IS300 came out on top. This is the first time in my long history of buying cars that I have no buyer's remorse.
Are you having problems with your Lexus Is 300?
Emory Connelly 2024-11-09
Vehicle year: 2004
Hi there! While this car is good, I think it has the potential to be even better. In order to compete with the big boys, it might need to step up its game a bit. I personally feel that it looks a little too similar to boy racer cars like the Civic. However, I do think that with a few tweaks, it could really stand out in the looks department!
Reginald Wunsch 2024-11-08
Vehicle year: 2022
I really like the exterior appearance of your car, and while the interior is not unattractive, I have noticed that the ride, transmission, and engine are not particularly smooth or fast. I'm not sure where Toyota's reputation comes from, as my experience with this car has not been particularly impressive.
Curtis Durgan 2024-11-07
Vehicle year: 2016
The Lexus F Sport IS300 AWD may not be the best option for those looking for a car with good resale value. However, it is a well-built car that offers great comfort. While it may not be the best option for those looking for high performance, it is still a great choice for those who prioritize comfort. If you are looking for a car with similar comfort, you can find it in a Toyota for a lower price. Alternatively, if you are looking for a car with small car performance, you can consider a Subaru that is priced 10k less. Overall, the Lexus F Sport IS300 AWD is a great car that offers comfort and reliability.
Hollis Turcotte 2024-10-21
Vehicle year: 2020
I really like the exterior appearance of your car, and while the interior is not unattractive, I have noticed that the ride, transmission, and engine are not particularly smooth or fast. I'm not sure where Toyota's reputation comes from, as my experience with this car has not been particularly impressive.
Isaias Kiehn 2024-09-09
Vehicle year: 2017
We leased an AWD with the multispoke fancy aluminum wheels. Despite my wife's best efforts, the car has been subjected to numerous potholes. However, we have replaced the soft wheels that were prone to bending and the low profile tires. As a result, we have been able to continue enjoying the car and will consider our options when the lease is up.