2009 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 2009 Lexus Is 350 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2009 Lexus IS 350, several common problems have been reported:

Massive Oil Leakage from the Engine: The 2009 Lexus IS 350 is known for significant oil leakage issues from the engine. This problem can lead to oil loss, potential engine damage, and the need for frequent refills, impacting the car's performance and reliability.
Faulty Camshaft Timing Oil Control Valves: Owners have reported problems with the camshaft timing oil control valves in the 2009 Lexus IS 350. Issues with these valves can affect engine timing, leading to performance issues, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Air Conditioning (A/C) Issues: Complaints have highlighted air conditioning problems in the 2009 Lexus IS 350. A malfunctioning A/C system can result in discomfort for passengers, especially in hot weather, and may require costly repairs to restore proper cooling functionality.

These common problems with the 2009 Lexus IS 350 can impact the overall driving experience, maintenance costs, and the long-term reliability of the vehicle. Owners facing these issues are advised to seek professional assistance to diagnose and address these specific concerns promptly.

What years of Lexus IS350 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.

What problems do 2009 Lexus ES 350 have?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

Exhaust. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks. ...
Steering And Suspension. ...
Drive System. ...
Climate System. ...
Brakes. ...
Paint And Trim. ...
Noises And Leaks. ...
Body Hardware.

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.

How many miles can a Lexus IS350 last?

While it's tough to give a one-size-fits-all answer (since it depends a lot on how well the car is maintained), it's not uncommon for a Lexus IS350 to surpass 200,000 miles with proper care. Some owners even report pushing their Lexus cars to 300,000 miles and beyond! Here are a few key things to remember: Mainten.

2009 Lexus Is 350 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Lexus Is 350.

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

2009 Lexus Is 350 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 2009 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.

2018-01-09

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013 Scion xB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sienna, 4Runner, Lexus IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, IS-F, and GX460 vehicles sold, ever registered, in the states of AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, the MP (Saipan), and the U.S. VI or "Zone A." Toyota is also recalling certain 2010 Scion xB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, 4Runner, Lexus IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, ES350, IS-F, GX460, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles sold, ever registered, in the states of AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "Zone B." Toyota is also recalling certain 2009 Scion xB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, Lexus IS250, IS350, ES350, IS-F, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles ever registered in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." 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 explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity 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 the Toyota, Scion and Lexus owners. General Motors will contact the Pontiac owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. The recall began on January 29, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331, or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. Toyota's numbers for this recall are "Zone A" Toyota: G0P, Lexus: GLG; "Zone B" Toyota: G0R, Lexus GLH; "Zone C" Toyota: H0A, and Lexus: HLA.

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.

Negative 2009 Lexus Is 350 car reviews

Harley Pagac 2024-09-21

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, the gas mileage could be better, and there is a lack of remote start (even by a third party).
Tremaine Cassin 2024-09-13

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.
Louvenia Borer 2024-05-27

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.
Darien Gorczany 2024-01-07

As a fellow Lexus enthusiast, I was thrilled to upgrade from my 02 IS300 to the 08 IS350 with all its new technology. While the interior comfort and performance are top-notch, I must admit that I still have a soft spot for the superior styling of my old IS 300. I was really hoping that after spending many hours staring at it, I would fall in love with the new one, but unfortunately, it hasn't happened yet :(

Positive 2009 Lexus Is 350 car reviews

Emanuel Schulist 2025-01-05

The IS350 is the perfect car for those who want a balance between sport and luxury. It offers a smooth and quick ride, effortlessly gliding over bumps and imperfections on the road. The car is also incredibly quiet, making for a relaxing driving experience. While the back seats may not be as comfortable as the front, the car more than makes up for it with its excellent performance. The engine produces a defined roar when you hit the pedal, making for an exciting ride. Overall, the IS350 is an excellent choice for those who want a car that can handle both daily driving and occasional track use. Plus, the audio system is top-notch!
Gillian Zboncak 2025-01-05

The IS350 is such a great car! I've owned it for 9 months now and put 6000 miles on it. I absolutely love it!! It's even better than my older 2002 IS300 in every way - looks, performance, comfort, everything. It handles well and has great pick up - I've even surprised a few cars on the road with it. While my S2000 handled better, I have to say that they are very different cars. Overall, the IS350 is a fun and nice daily driver!
Bryon Bogan 2024-11-18

The IS is a fantastic car! It looks amazing and has a great interior. I was considering the ES, but after seeing the IS, there was no way I could go back to something that looks like it's meant for an older crowd. It's just so much fun to drive and I can't wait to drive it every day!
Seamus Dach 2024-11-08

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.
Joey Kuphal 2024-10-16

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!

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2009 Lexus Is 350 problems:

Are There Issues With The 2006-2013 Lexus IS? - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmt0OxHQEtY

Feb 21, 2019 ... In this episode of Marty Motoring, we look at the common issues of the 2nd generation Lexus IS250, IS350 and ISF.

Did 2007-2009 Lexus ES 350s have CVT/oil burning issues as ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/Lexus/comments/14j5vis/did_20072009_lexus_es_350s_have_cvtoil_burning/

Jun 26, 2023 ... The 2GR-FE, V6, in the ES are pretty much reliable. Early year 2GR may have some oil burning issue but those where only a handful out there.

Lexus IS350 & IS250 Most Common Maintenance Issues Explained ...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uaY6rpGt_c

Apr 9, 2020 ... I love my 2006 Lexus IS350, and I wanted to share the most common maintenance issues I have faced that are common across the Lexus IS350 and ...

2009 RX 350 AWD Transmission Issues - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-2nd-gen-2004-2009/927520-2009-rx-350-awd-transmission-issues.html

Sep 18, 2019 ... Sounds like they didn't rebuilt it right then... you're also one of the few here who's actually had tranny issues on the RX350 so it will be ...