2008 Lexus Is 350 problems

General information about Lexus-Is 350
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

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 2008 Lexus Is 350 problems

The 2008 Lexus IS 350 is known for several common problems based on owner complaints. Here are the details of the most frequently reported issues:

Melting Dashboard: The 2008 Lexus IS 350 has a problem with the interior plastics, particularly the dashboard. The plastic material can melt under direct sunlight, causing a cosmetic issue and potentially interfering with the functionality of dashboard airbags and cabin electronics. This problem is more prevalent in the 2007 model year, but it can also affect the 2008 IS 350.

GPS Failures: Some owners have reported GPS failures in the 2008 Lexus IS 350. However, this issue seems to be less common in more recent models. The GPS system had some problems in the early releases, but later models have fewer issues with the system.

Oil Leaks: The 2008 Lexus IS 350 has reports of excessive or sudden oil leaks, especially in earlier models. While more recent models seem to have fewer problems, oil leaks and oil consumption are still concerns for some owners.

Miscellaneous Engine Problems: The 2008 Lexus IS 350 has various engine issues, including gasket and seal problems, ticking and knocking sounds, and other signs of internal engine issues. These problems range in severity and causes, with some requiring immediate and costly repairs.

Discolored Inside Rear View Mirror: Some owners have reported that the inside rearview mirror can become discolored in the 2008 Lexus IS 350. This issue may be more common in certain model years or production batches.

Other Issues: Some owners have reported other issues, such as transmission problems, electrical issues, and suspension problems. These issues may be less common but can still affect the overall driving experience and reliability of the 2008 Lexus IS 350.

While the 2008 Lexus IS 350 has some common problems, it is generally considered a reliable vehicle with a comfortable and luxurious interior. However, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.

What years of Lexus IS 350 to avoid?

A: If you're in the market for a used Lexus RX 350, avoid the 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 model years. These particular years are the most problematic and ensure a more reliable and satisfying ownership experience.

Is the Lexus 350 engine reliable?

The Lexus RX350 received above-average scores on all major reliability ratings. RepairPal gives the model a 4.0 out of 5.0 rating, ranking it third out of 17 luxury SUVs.

What are the best years to buy a Lexus 350?

According to industry reviews, consumer feedback, reported problems, and NHTSA statistics, the most reliable years for Lexus RX350 are 2014, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. In these particular years, the car received the highest ratings in terms of safety, reliability, and performance.

Which year is the best Lexus IS350?

Most Reliable Years for the Lexus IS

According to various sources, the most reliable Lexus IS years include: 2014 Lexus IS 300. 2018 Lexus IS 350. 2019 Lexus IS 350.

2008 Lexus Is 350 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Lexus Is 350.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2008 Lexus Is 350 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 2008 Lexus Is 350.

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.

2018-06-26

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2007-2011 Lexus GS350 and GS450h, 2006-2013 Lexus IS350 and 2010-2014 Lexus IS350C vehicles, equipped with 3.5L V6 2GR-FSE gasoline engines. The diaphragms in the fuel pulsation dampers may harden over time and develop cracks, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery pipe with a new pipe that has improved pulsation dampers, free of charge. The recall began August 23, 2018. Owners may contact Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's number for this recall is JLF.

2017-01-09

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2012 Toyota 4Runner, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sienna, Yaris, Scion xB, Lexus ES350, GX460, IS-F, IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, and Lexus LFA vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Toyota is recalling certain 2009 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, Yaris HB, Scion xB, Pontiac Vibe, Lexus, ES350, IS250, IS350, and IS-F vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Toyota is recalling certain 2006-2008 Lexus IS250 and IS350, 2007-2008 Lexus ES350, Toyota Yaris, Yaris HB, and 2008 Lexus IS-F and Scion xB vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Toyota will notify the Toyota, Scion and Lexus owners. General Motors will contact the Pontiac owners. Depending on the model, dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator or the air bag assembly, free of charge. The recall began on February 1, 2017. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331, or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. Toyota's numbers for final remedy for this campaign are G0P (Toyota Zone A), G0R (Toyota Zone B), H0A (Toyota Zone C), GLG (Lexus Zone A), GLH (Lexus Zone B) and HLA (Lexus Zone C).

2016-05-23

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2009-2011 Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix, 2006-2011 Toyota Yaris, Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350, 2010-2011 Toyota 4Runner, Lexus IS250C, Lexus IS350C and Lexus GX460, 2011 Sienna, 2007-2011 Lexus ES350, and 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2007-2008 Toyota Yaris, 2006-2008 Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350 and 2007-2008 Lexus ES350 vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Vehicles of these model years and models that were not originally sold or ever registered in either Zones A or B are not subject to this safety recall. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Toyota will notify the Toyota and Lexus owners. General Motors will contact the Pontiac owners. Depending on the model, dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator or the air bag assembly, free of charge. The recall began on December 6, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for interim notification for this campaign are G1P (Toyota Zone A), G1R (Toyota Zone B), G2G (Lexus Zone A), and G2H (Lexus Zone B). Toyota's numbers for final remedy for this campaign are G0P (Toyota Zone A), G0R (Toyota Zone B), GLG (Lexus Zone A), and GLH (Lexus Zone B).

2014-10-15

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Lexus LS vehicles manufactured May 9, 2006, to July 20, 2010, 2006-2011 Lexus GS vehicles manufactured January 6, 2005, to September 10, 2010, and 2006-2011 Lexus IS vehicles manufactured August 30, 2005, to September 10, 2010. Due to anti-corrosion plating remnants, fuel may leak from where the fuel pressure sensor is attached to the fuel delivery pipe.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will clean and reseal the fuel pressure sensor mounting area, free of charge. The recall began March 3, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331.

2013-09-04

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: ENGINE
Summary: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Lexus GS350 vehicles manufactured June 19, 2006, through July 12, 2011; and model year 2006-2011 Lexus IS350 vehicles manufactured May 27, 2005, through July 13, 2011; and model year 2010-2011 Lexus IS350c vehicles manufactured November 25, 2009, through July 19, 2011. These vehicles, equipped with the 2GR-FSE engine, use bolts to secure the housing and sprocket of the Variable-Valve Timing (VVT) system gear assembly. These bolts could become loose due to abnormal impacts generated within the gear assembly immediately after a cold start-up.
Consequence: The loose bolts could cause the VVT gear housing and sprocket to separate and result in the engine stopping while the vehicle is being driven, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and Lexus dealers will replace the VVT unit free of charge. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

2013-01-30

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
Summary: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 vehicles manufactured August 23, 2005, through October 5, 2011; 2010-2012 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles manufactured April 10, 2009, through October 6, 2011; and 2008-2011 Lexus IS-F vehicles manufactured December 14, 2007, through July 10, 2011. The nuts that fasten the wiper arms may be insufficiently torqued such that if the wiper arms are restricted by an external load, such as a buildup of heavy snow, one or both of the wipers may become inoperative.
Consequence: Inoperative wipers could reduce driver visibility and increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and Lexus dealers will install new wiper arm nuts, free of charge. An interim letter was mailed to owners on April 4, 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

2010-07-06

Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2008 LEXUS PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 26, 2005 THROUGH AUGUST 4, 2008. MICRO-FOREIGN OBJECTS IN THE MATERIAL OF THE VALVE SPRING MAY DEGRADE THE STRENGTH OF THE VALVE SPRING, POSSIBLY CAUSING THE SPRING TO BREAK.
Consequence: THE ENGINE COULD FAIL AND STOP SUDDENLY WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 2, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.

Negative 2008 Lexus Is 350 car reviews

Francis Gusikowski 2024-10-15

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.
Maximo Champlin 2024-10-02

As a fellow Lexus enthusiast, I can understand your excitement to upgrade from your 02 IS300 to the 08 IS350 with all its new technology. While the interior comfort and performance are top-notch, I can see how you might miss the superior styling of your old IS 300. It's disappointing that after many trips to the garage, you still haven't fallen in love with your new car. I hope that the next visit will be more successful!
Rickie McCullough 2024-09-27

Pros - power, handling, ride comfort, overall appearance, and decent gas mileage considering its 306 HP output. The car is also quiet and smooth. However, there are some cons to consider. The instrument panel on the center console is poor, and the LED panel is fuzzy (although this is not a defect and all ISs are like that). Additionally, gas mileage could be better, and there is a lack of remote start (even by a third party).
Chester Stark 2024-06-28

The rattles in this car are unacceptable, especially considering the low mileage. Despite visiting the dealer seven times, the issue has not been resolved. It is disappointing that the service provided did not meet the advertised standards of Lexus. I would not recommend this car to those who are bothered by squeaks and rattles.
Elijah Christiansen 2024-01-23

I test drove several cars including the 335i, G35, G37, Acura TL, and A4. In my opinion, the BMW was the best driving car in every aspect. It was more refined, fluid, and precise by far. However, I ultimately went with the IS because of its reliability for my wife, and she also liked the interior. Unfortunately, the IS has been in the shop four times for squeaks and rattles. Compared to the BMW, the car handles like a Buick. The suspension is harsh, and the car has needless understeer, always pushing and sliding the front end beyond the intended arc. Additionally, there really is no feel in the controls such as steering, throttle, and brakes. If you are near retirement age and want a mellow driving experience, this car is great. On the other hand, the fit and finish are great, and the car does have a strong engine.

Positive 2008 Lexus Is 350 car reviews

Clay Olson 2024-11-26

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!
Selmer Jacobson 2024-10-07

The IS 350 is a fantastic car! It's beautiful both inside and out, and it's incredibly fast. You'll never be left wanting for power. I traded in a 350Z anniversary for this car, and it's even faster! The sound system is great, and I absolutely love the seats. After looking at all the cars in this class, I can confidently say that this car is better in every way. I highly recommend testing this car last because you'll definitely fall in love with it and want to buy it! The black with tan color combination is especially hot and turns heads everywhere I go.
Newton Frami 2024-09-20

Hi there! If you're in the market for a new car, have you considered the IS 350? In my experience, it's a great alternative to the BMW 3-series. I was originally planning to get a 335i coupe, but after taking a closer look at the IS 350, I found that I actually preferred it to the BMW. While the BMW certainly handled well (and the free maintenance for 4 years is hard to beat), I do a lot of highway driving and needed a car that was both comfortable and high-performing. Plus, I think the IS looks better than the BMW, and it's also less noisy (the dealership told me that's due to the run-flat tires). Let me know if you have any questions or if there's anything else I can help with!
Rodger Thompson 2024-09-04

I came from driving a highly modified Toyota MR2 turbo. I miss the stick, but the smooth powerful acceleration more than makes up for it. The car is quiet, sometimes too quiet and the ride is firm, but smooth. I have around 2000 miles on so far and I must say, I enjoy every mile of driving this car. It makes me feel so grown up!
Terrance Abbott 2024-08-14

My IS 350 has been in the shop six times, totaling 21 days, due to eight squeaks and rattles within the first two months of ownership. While this is certainly not up to Lexus's usual high standards, I am confident that the issue will be resolved to my satisfaction. I have been a loyal Lexus customer for many years and have always been impressed with their commitment to quality. I trust that they will continue to uphold this reputation and address any concerns I may have. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2008 Lexus Is 350 problems:

2008 Lexus IS350 problems? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-2nd-gen-2006-2013/852363-2008-lexus-is350-problems.html

Apr 6, 2017 ... Asides from normal wear, such as brake pads, spark plugs, filters, etc. Not much gone wrong. O2 sensors had to be replaced around 110k miles.

2006-08 Lexus is350 problems! | Lexus IS Forum

https://www.my.is/threads/2006-08-lexus-is350-problems.608453/

Feb 6, 2020 ... In short, I just want to know if 2006 and 2007 lexus is350 models can have severe engine problems and if I should just look for 2008 and above ...

High Mileage IS350s Common Problems? - ClubLexus - Lexus ...

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-2nd-gen-2006-2013/730088-high-mileage-is350s-common-problems.html

Feb 18, 2014 ... The MPH and RPM needle lighting will fail, some start around 80K. Depends on the amount of use and climate you live in. The cluster can also ...

Common problems with the IS350 : r/Lexus

https://www.reddit.com/r/Lexus/comments/a1g6a0/common_problems_with_the_is350/

Nov 29, 2018 ... Common problems with the IS350 · AUX Port lost functionality: I soldered the two points together in the AUX port board and that fixed the issue.