Lexus Is 350 problems

General information about Lexus Is 350
Lexus Is 350 years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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 Lexus Is 350 problems

The 2014 Lexus IS 350 is a reliable luxury performance vehicle with affordable maintenance costs and minor issues. However, there are some common problems that owners have reported, which include:

Faulty fuel pump: The 2014 Lexus IS 350 has a recall on the fuel pump, which can fail and cause the engine to fail or run lean due to fuel starvation. This issue can cause damage to the engine if it occurs continuously. It is advisable to ensure that the fuel pump is functional or has been changed if necessary.

Faulty power steering: Some owners have reported partial power steering failure, mostly noticed when returning the steering wheel to the center. This issue can affect the performance and safety of the vehicle.

Grinding brakes: The brakes can grind due to warped rotors from heavy braking. This issue can cause vibration when braking, which can transfer to the steering wheel, affecting the safety of the vehicle. It is advisable to have the brakes inspected and repaired if noticed.

Slow/faulty windshield wiper: Some owners have reported issues with the windshield wiper, either being slow or not working correctly. This issue can be annoying and dangerous, especially in the rain when it's needed the most.

The 2014 Lexus IS 350 has an annual maintenance cost of $625, which is slightly less than the average vehicle maintenance price of $652. The average repair cost for the IS 350 is between $562 and $687. Most parts are relatively affordable and available, but some parts can be expensive since this is a performance car with luxury features.

In summary, while the 2014 Lexus IS 350 is a reliable luxury performance vehicle, it is essential to be aware of these common problems and address them promptly to ensure the safety and performance of the vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

Is the IS350 engine reliable?

The Lexus IS350 Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $543 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. While repairs are more common, these issues are less likely to be severe than with other cars.

Which year is the best Lexus IS 350?

According to various sources, the most reliable Lexus IS years include:

2014 Lexus IS 300.
2018 Lexus IS 350.
2019 Lexus IS 350.
2012 Lexus IS 250.
2011 Lexus IS 250.

Is it expensive to maintain a Lexus IS350?

The annual maintenance cost of a Lexus IS350 is $543.

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. ...
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Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Is 350 years

We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Is 350 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Is 350 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Is 350 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Is 350 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Lexus Is 350 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Is 350 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Is 350 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Is 350 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Is 350 vehicles.

List of Lexus Is 350 complaints

Lexus Is 350 2020

Date Of Incident: 2020-03-22
Date Complaint: 2020-03-24
VIN: JTHGZ1E24L5
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: THE DASHBOARD OF MY 2020 IS350 THAT I HAVE HAD FOR LESS THAN A MONTH IS ALREADY SCUFFED. I WAS SIMPLY TRYING TO SWIPE A PIECE OF HAIR OFF OF THE DASH AND IT LEFT A SCUFF ON THE DASHBOARD THAT WILL NOT COME OUT. I AM DEVASTATED AS I SPENT $50,000 ON THIS CAR AND HAVE ALWAYS TAKEN IMMACULATE CARE OF MY VEHICLES; HOWEVER, SIMPLY WIPING THE DASH HAS CAUSED IRREVERSIBLE SCUFFS. AFTER RESEARCHING THIS ISSUE, I DO SEE HUNDREDS OF OTHER LEXUS OWNERS HAVING THIS SAME ISSUE. IS THERE AN EXISTING RECALL FOR THIS THAT CAN BE EXTENDED INTO THE 2020S? I HAVE NEVER HAD THIS ISSUE WITH ANY OTHER LUXURY VEHICLES THAT I'VE EVER OWNED FOR 5+ YEARS.

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Latest 5 recalls Lexus Is 350

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 56 recalls for different components of the Lexus Is 350.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Lexus Is 350 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 350 2014
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 350 2015
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 350 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 350 2011
Report Received Date: 2019-10-17
Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front driver inflator, front passenger airbag inflator, the airbag assembly, or the front passenger airbag sub-assembly and inflator. The recall began November 20, 2019. 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 J0A, J0B, and J0C. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK.

Latest negative Lexus Is 350 car reviews

Matt Farrell 2024-11-07

Vehicle year: 2016

This car has a lot going for it on paper: 300HP, AWD, creature comforts, and nice technology. While the styling may be polarizing, I personally love the way the IS 350 F Sport looks. However, I was disappointed to find that the driving experience was quite boring. The acceleration was fine, but not great, and the gas mileage was no better than much more fun-to-drive cars by BMW or Audi. The 6-speed automatic that comes with the AWD version is sluggish and seems continuously confused as to what you want it to do. The infotainment system's mouse controller is a bit quirky, but it has all the expected capabilities even if user-friendliness isn't optimal. The Levinson sound system is really outstanding, but unfortunately, the basic audio system is really hollow and it seems like 90% of the cars out there don't have the Levinson option installed. On a hot day, the ventilated seats were a nice touch, and overall the seats were comfortable and the cabin had a polished, clean look to it. However, in terms of materials, the IS 350 really needs to up its game compared to competitors. The exception is the gauge cluster, which is really advanced compared to everything but the 2017 Audi all-digital gauges. No car is perfect, and while I think I could forgive all the shortcomings of the IS 350, there is one design flaw that I find particularly annoying. They put a huge hump that sticks out on the driver's side right where you put your feet when you are driving. Apparently, it's part of the AWD system, but it's seriously intrusive. Your leg rests and rubs against it while you're driving, and it is really annoying. In such a competitive segment, I'm really surprised such an annoying design flaw hasn't been corrected after all these years.I really wanted to love the IS 350, and was excited about the possibility of driving one home. However, there are just too many issues for me to justify purchasing a car at this price point with so many things that I find annoying.
Kristian Murray 2024-10-28

Vehicle year: 2015

Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share a quick story about our experience with our Lexus IS 350 f sport. As a retired couple, we were looking for a second car that we could use occasionally. However, we were surprised to find out that after just 8 days of not using the car, it wouldn't start. We reached out to Lexus and they explained that this is a common issue with many of their models. Apparently, the car draws a lot of electricity when not in use, which can cause the battery to drain. Lexus offered a couple of solutions, including a plug-in solar panel or a battery plug-in. We were a bit surprised by the options, but appreciated their willingness to help. Thanks for listening!
Scotty Fisher 2024-10-20

Vehicle year: 2020

Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share a quick story about our experience with our Lexus IS 350 f sport. As a retired couple, we were looking for a second car that we could use occasionally. However, we were surprised to find out that after just 8 days of not using the car, it wouldn't start. We reached out to Lexus and they explained that this is a common issue with many of their models. Apparently, the car draws a lot of electricity when not in use, which can cause the battery to drain quickly. Lexus offered us a couple of solutions, including a plug-in solar panel or a battery plug-in. We were impressed with their willingness to help and their commitment to finding a solution. Thanks for listening!
Rollin Ruecker 2024-10-15

Vehicle year: 2006

If you're looking for a car, you might want to consider a different model than the 2006 one. While the is300 is a great car, the handling on this model is a bit loose and the interior dash quality is flimsy, which can lead to rattles. Additionally, the pick up on this car is not as strong as you might expect from a 300 horsepower car. It's possible that Lexus is still working on improving their performance, so it might be worth checking out some of their newer models.
Francis Gusikowski 2024-10-15

Vehicle year: 2008

The navigation system on this car could use some improvement. It doesn't provide input while driving and lacks turn-by-turn guidance in unverified areas, especially smaller towns. If you enter a smaller town while driving on a route, the guidance stops and you are on your own until you come to major highways. Personally, I prefer my Garmin nuvi 760 for my navigation needs as it works better and guides for all occasions. Although, I must admit, I do miss my Acura TL. It was a much better car.

Latest positive Lexus Is 350 car reviews

Hermann Wolff 2024-11-29

Vehicle year: 2010

I really like this car! It's a lot of fun and I love the power it has! Before this, I had a 2002 Celica GT with only 140 HP, so having 309 HP now is amazing! Although I prefer manual cars, the paddle shifters on the automatic IS 350 are okay. The interior of the car is what really sold me - I love everything about it! While the exterior could be more aggressive, I'm planning on getting a body kit. Overall, this car is just so awesome and so much fun!
Judah Brown 2024-11-28

Vehicle year: 2006

I'm so thrilled with this car! I drove the IS 300 for 3 years and absolutely loved it, but the IS 350 completely surpasses it. The upgraded looks and quality are amazing, and the power and performance are simply incredible. Even my friend who drives a 2006 330i was bragging about it until he drove the IS 350 and now he regrets his purchase. While Lexus won't confirm or promote it, it is possible to disable the VDIM. It requires some specific steps with the brake and emergency brake, but it can be done.
Clay Olson 2024-11-26

Vehicle year: 2008

Your IS 350 sounds like an amazing car! I can tell you did your research and looked at many different options before making your decision. It's great to hear that you ended up choosing the Lexus IS and that you're enjoying it so much. The luxury package sounds like it was definitely worth it for the added comfort and convenience features. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Nils Koepp 2024-11-25

Vehicle year: 2010

I switched from an 03 BMW 530i. Yes, I gave up a lot of interior room, but that's where the sacrifices end. I gained so much more when I purchased this vehicle. It's faster, more reliable, better looking, and the fit and finish is worlds apart from BMW. And did I mention how much more reliable it is? So long to numerous trips to the repair shop. I am really enjoying this ride!
Coy Prosacco 2024-11-25

Vehicle year: 2019

Great car that is well balanced all around.