2010 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 2010 Lexus Is 350 problems

The 2010 Lexus IS 350 has been praised for its refined ride, swift acceleration, and many safety features. However, there are some common problems reported by owners that are worth considering.

Melting Dashboard and Door Panels: One of the most common issues reported with the 2010 Lexus IS 350 is the dashboard and door panels melting due to the interior plastics deteriorating in the sun.

GPS Failures: Another issue reported by some owners is GPS failures, although this problem seems to be less common than the melting dashboard issue.

Oil Leaks: The 2010 Lexus IS 350 also has some reports of excessive or sudden oil leaks, especially in the earlier models. While more recent models seem to have fewer problems, oil leaks and oil consumption can be an issue with the ES 350's engine.

Miscellaneous Engine Problems: The 2010 Lexus IS 350 has various other engine issues, including gasket and seal problems, ticking and knocking sounds, and other signs that something is wrong with the engine internally. These problems can range in severity and require immediate and costly repairs.

Discolored Inside Rear View Mirror: Some owners have reported that the inside rear view mirror may become discolored, which can be distracting and affect visibility while driving.

It's important to note that these problems are based on car owner complaints and may not affect all 2010 Lexus IS 350 vehicles. However, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision. It's also recommended to have any used vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before buying to identify any potential issues.

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.

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.

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.

2010 Lexus Is 350 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2010 Lexus Is 350.

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

2010 Lexus Is 350 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 2010 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.

2019-01-09

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Toyota 4Runner, 2014-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, and 2014-2017 Lexus GX460 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of 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." Toyota is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS250, IS350, 2011-2016 4Runner, 2011-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2011-2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, 2011-2017 Lexus GX460, and 2011-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of 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." Toyota is also recalling certain 2010-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS350, 2010-2016 4Runner, 2010-2013 Lexus IS250, 2010-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2010-2014 Lexus IS-F, and 2010-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of 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 or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), that 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 passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. The recall began February 15, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. 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.

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.

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 2010 Lexus Is 350 car reviews

Cullen Bogan 2024-08-18

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.
Andrew Halvorson 2024-08-11

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 chose the IS for its reliability and my wife's preference for 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, with a harsh suspension and needless understeer, always pushing and sliding the front end beyond the intended arc. Additionally, there is no feel in the controls such as steering, throttle, and brakes. If you are near retirement age and prefer a mellow driving experience, this car is great. On the positive side, the fit and finish are great and the car does have a strong engine.
Americo Willms 2024-07-06

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 :(
Vaughn Weber 2024-06-14

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).
Marcel Hermann 2024-03-07

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.

Positive 2010 Lexus Is 350 car reviews

Cleveland Beer 2025-01-09

I just received my Lexus IS 350 that I had special ordered with the Luxury PKG. This car is amazing! It's like driving a high performance cloud. It's so smooth and quiet, but yet you don't have to press the gas pedal very hard to make the car take off like a rocket. The build quality is fantastic, and everything is put together nicely. The interior is of the highest quality. I have to say it's the best car I have ever owned.
Ceasar Ratke 2025-01-04

This car is amazing! It's the best I've ever owned. Although I would love a BMW sport suspension, it's just not worth the frustration I've had with my 535i (which cost $20k more than the IS!). I've driven both the 250 and 350, but I stuck with the IS350 because I value the acceleration. However, the IS250 is also great and sporty with good mileage. The rear wheel drive platform has very precise steering with a firm suspension that still soaks up bumps pretty well. If you prefer a cushy, quiet ride, then the ES is the way to go. But in my opinion, BMW, Acura, and Infiniti don't hold a candle to the overall combination of performance, reliability, and dealer experience that Lexus offers. And let's not forget about their amazing service department!
Hermann Wolff 2024-11-29

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!
Nils Koepp 2024-11-25

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!
Emory Schiller 2024-09-11

This is actually my second time purchasing an IS 350. I leased a 2006 IS350 for three years and enjoyed it so much that I recently bought a new one. I looked at BMW, Acura, and the GS350, but I couldn't find a car that matched the style and performance of the IS350. While it may not be the best in class in one particular aspect, it is definitely the best all-round luxury sports car, hands down.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2010 Lexus Is 350 problems:

IS C Top issues ? Common or rare ? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-c/930849-is-c-top-issues-common-or-rare.html

Nov 3, 2019 ... I've had my 2010 IS350C for five years now with frequent top use and have yet to encounter the microswitch problem. While that is the most ...

2010 Lexus ES 350 with problems... repair or start over? : r ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/158wmyf/2010_lexus_es_350_with_problems_repair_or_start/

Jul 25, 2023 ... Front and rear strut replacement · Engine mount replacement · Rack pinion leak · Power steering pump leak · Sway bar link · 2x TPMS sensors.

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 ...

What are the common problems with a 2006 Lexus IS 350? : r ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/askcarguys/comments/hxtgks/what_are_the_common_problems_with_a_2006_lexus_is/

Jul 25, 2020 ... Or do you think i should just spend a couple grand more on the 2010-12 model? Any personal experience or knowledge on these vehicles is ...