2005 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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Common 2005 Lexus Is 300 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Lexus IS 300 2005 model, several common problems have been reported:
- Throttle Hesitation with Automatic Transmissions:
Owners have experienced hesitation between throttle application and transmission engagement, particularly in automatic transmissions. When stepping on the throttle, the engine revs, but the car does not immediately respond. This issue occurs at low speeds in both drive and reverse. Attempts to address this problem have involved adjusting the throttle cable. - Denso Radiator Neck Cracking:
The stock IS300s come with Denso radiators that utilize plastic tubing. Over time, the neck connecting the hose to the intake can crack, leading to potential coolant leaks. If the radiator cracks while driving, hot coolant can spray into the engine bay, causing overheating. A solution to this problem is replacing the stock radiator with a performance radiator that features metal tubing. - Gurgling Sound from the Car:
Many IS300 owners have reported a "gurgling" sound coming from the car, often attributed to air trapped in the heater core. To address this issue, bleeding the coolant is necessary. Since the IS300 lacks a bleeder screw, the radiator cap must be removed, and the coolant bled by running the heater at maximum flow. - AC Servo Failure:
AC servo failure manifests as a clicking sound inside the dash, followed by an unresponsive climate control system. This issue is often caused by malfunctioning servo motors. Owners can attempt to clean the servo motors with isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs as a cost-effective solution compared to replacement. - Cooling System Challenges:
The cooling system poses significant challenges, with reported issues like the cracked radiator neck and air trapped in the cooling system. While these problems can be concerning, they are not as severe as some other cooling system issues in different car models. Regular maintenance, such as flushing the radiator, may be necessary to prevent overheating and ensure proper functioning of the cooling system.
These common problems reported by owners of the Lexus IS 300 2005 model highlight various issues that can impact the driving experience and maintenance requirements of this vehicle.
What are common problems with Lexus IS300?
Lexus IS300h Common Problems and Solutions
- Poor engine idling/misfiring. Problem: If you are having any problems with the engine misfiring and poor engine idling, this will be caused by a problem with either the throttle body, or MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor. ...
- Rear brake calliper problem. Problem: ...
- Heavy clutch wear. Problem:
How many miles can a 2005 Lexus IS300 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.
Is the first gen IS300 reliable?
2001 IS 300 is a very reliable automobile!
These engines and transmissions are amazing but everything around it may need attention as mentioned above. You may end up spending up to $3,000 to replace the things around the motor but I think it's worth it considering the cost of a new vehicle these days.
Is 300 2005 Lexus fuel consumption?
Find and Compare Cars
| 2005 Lexus IS 300 | |
|---|---|
| Personalize Find a car | 6 cyl, 3.0 L, Automatic (S5) Compare |
| Fuel Economy | |
| EPA MPG | Premium Gasoline 18 combined city/highway MPG 16 city 23 highway 5.6 gals/100 miles |
2005 Lexus Is 300 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Lexus Is 300.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Negative 2005 Lexus Is 300 car reviews
Positive 2005 Lexus Is 300 car reviews
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I got my car for my birthday and it's awesome! It's really fun to drive and looks so sleek. How can you not love it?!
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Great job on your driving! The car feels like a well-balanced sports car, and the braking system is on par with BMW. The interior fabrics are beautiful, and the high build quality is in keeping with the Lexus name.
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Pros: You'll love the competitive pricing, mechanical quality, and reliability of this vehicle. Plus, the driving mechanics and handling are excellent - it drives like a sports car, yet has the comfort of a luxury vehicle. Cons: While the style may be a bit outdated (with poor interior design), and the MPG could be better, it's important to note that this may not be the best vehicle for winter roads.
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This car is so much fun to drive! It feels light and nimble on twisty back roads, making it a blast to drive. Even when the front tires are pushing into a turn, it never feels like it's going to get away from you. Little 'step outs' from the rear end are easily corrected on dry roads. In my opinion, the only thing this car needs to be the ultimate entry-level 'luxury sport' is another 50 hp. Despite having 19s, it's very quiet inside. The tiptronic auto works well, although 2nd gear could be a bit taller. Although traction control is a bit intrusive, it does its job, even if it stays on too long when it kicks in. The motor is silky smooth, and that's an understatement.
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If you're in the market for a sports sedan that has it all, the IS300 is definitely worth considering. The smooth 2JZ-GE I6 engine is paired with a transmission that shifts almost imperceptibly. The handling is excellent and the brakes stop on a dime. The interior materials are of high quality and the fit and finish are world-class, worthy of the Lexus name.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Lexus Is 300 problems:
Considering an IS300 - common problems? - ClubLexus - Lexus ...
Jul 7, 2005 ... The IS300 has no major mechanical problems. Consumer Reports calls it one of most reliable vehicles in their database. It DOES have some of ...
Common issues with 2005 IS300s? : r/IS300
Aug 18, 2021 ... Actually, read up on the sticky dashboard common to 02 and above. Mechanically, they are rock solid if you service it regularly.
Any other common is300 problems?? | Lexus IS Forum
Jun 13, 2014 ... Stock antennas are probably starting to break due to car-wash stress. Coolant overflow tank develops a crack if the engine overheats (or gets ...
Are is300s reliable? : r/IS300
Jan 24, 2022 ... if the car is well maintained then you have no worries, they are reliable. The most common is i've heard and experienced was just the throttle ...
Any Truth To These GS300 MK3 Common Problems - Lexus GS 300 ...
Jul 4, 2017 ... Have 12 yr old mk3 2005 GS300, engine fine no oil consumption. Have had sticking rear calipers though. Quote ...
Other years of Lexus Is 300
Are you having problems with your 2005 Lexus Is 300?
Keeley Kassulke 2024-08-18
The vehicle produces significant road noise and despite having been taken to the dealer, they have refused to address the issue, which appears to be a faulty wheel bearing or problematic tires. Additionally, one of the tires had to be replaced at a cost of $225.00 after the tube popped out, similar to a bike tire. The vehicle seems to have been in an accident or sustained damage, and the dealer has not taken responsibility for it. Based on my experience, I would not recommend purchasing another one.
Ubaldo Heaney 2024-07-19
Although this car may not meet everyone's needs, it is important to note that it has some limitations in terms of interior space and comfort. However, it is still a high-quality vehicle that offers a smooth ride and reliable performance. While it may not meet the expectations of some, it is still a solid choice for those looking for a dependable car.
Salvador Raynor 2024-06-09
The IS 300 has some areas that could be improved. While it takes inspiration from the 3-series BMW, Lexus has made some adjustments to the road feel and instrument cluster that may not be to everyone's liking. Additionally, the traction control can be a bit sensitive on city streets and it may consume more premium gas than expected. However, it does come with some helpful features such as a warning beep if you exit the car incorrectly. Overall, it's a unique car that may not be for everyone, but it's worth considering if you're looking for something different from a Toyota Corolla.