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Which Years of Used Lexus IS Vehicles Are Most Reliable?

in Reliability
Silver Lexus IS

Lexus IS by Vauxford - CC-BY-SA-4.0

The Lexus IS is an older line of vehicles, originally introduced over two decades ago. Because of this, the Lexus IS is broadly split up into two different generations: the earlier generation, before 2010, and the more recent generation, after 2011 or so. If you’re in the market for one of these used cars, you might wonder what the most reliable Lexus IS year is. Read on to learn exactly that.

Most Reliable Years for the Lexus IS 

The reliability of the Lexus IS is highly contingent on the model year you purchase. 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

These vehicle model years are known for their overall dependability, solid design, and excellent construction. As you can see, they are all after 2010. At this stage, Lexus finally figured out how to eliminate some of the problems plaguing earlier vehicle iterations.

More importantly, it started offering more advanced features to sweeten the deal and make a used Lexus IS a much more attractive prospect. For example, the 2018 Lexus IS comes with a rearview camera and much-improved horsepower for a smoother, more agile driving experience.

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Are Lexus IS Vehicles Generally Reliable?

It’s one thing to purchase one of the most reliable Lexus IS years, but what about the rest of the vehicle line? According to motorandwheels.com, the Lexus IS is a generally reliable vehicle line, with several models achieving top reliability and quality ratings from current and past owners. That said, it also notes that, over two decades, the Lexus IS hasn’t sold a staggering number of vehicles.

Still, other sources seem to indicate the Lexus IS is pretty reliable, with each successive generation getting higher dependability scores. Truedelta.com says the Lexus IS is among the best of its vehicle type in terms of overall reliability, particularly those cars from 2006 to 2013. All in all, this information just shows that it really depends on the model year you purchase.

Which Lexus IS Vehicles Are the Least Reliable?

There are certainly some used Lexus IS models you should avoid, including:

  • 2007 Lexus IS 250, which is known for power steering failures, flickering headlights, and faulty airbag sensors
  • 2008 Lexus IS 250, which has 308 record complaints according to the NHTSA
  • 2006 Lexus IS 350, which has break issues, interior dashboard weaknesses, and many more problems with the power steering

Fortunately, these are only a handful of models you should do your best to stay away from. Even if you find one for a very agreeable price, keep in mind you may pay much more in the long run if you buy a car that has problems lurking out of sight.

Are Lexus IS Vehicles Expensive to Maintain?

Don’t forget that you’ll need to pay for regular maintenance for your Lexus IS after buying it. According to repairpal.com, the average annual repair cost for a used Lexus IS is about $551.

That’s about average compared to similar vehicles of a related size and type. Of course, different repairs may cost you more or less money. For instance, replacing the windshield wiper motor could run you as much as $600. However, a tie rod replacement could cost less than $200.

For the best results, try to take your used Lexus IS to a repair shop as soon as you notice something wrong with it. That gives mechanics the chance to correct a small error before it becomes something much larger and worse.

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Which Lexus IS is Most Reliable?

When push comes to shove, the absolute most reliable Lexus IS year is the 2015 Lexus IS 250. According to enginepatrol.com, this model year has a lot of big things going for it.

For example, the 2015 Lexus IS is compatible with the Enform Remote mobile app, which allows users to check on the status of their vehicles and even find their vehicles from afar. This vehicle model also comes with specialized paint and interior touches, a powerful 2.5 L V6 engine, and a six-speed automatic transmission system. The fuel economy isn’t half bad, either, reaching up to 30 miles per gallon for highway driving and 21 miles per gallon for city driving.

What Are the Most Common Lexus IS Problems?

Even if you purchase one of the most reliable Lexus IS years, it pays to know what mechanical faults you should watch out for just in case you need to take it in for maintenance. As mentioned in our previous write-up, the most common problems with the Lexus IS include:

  • Dashboard melting: The 2007 and 2008 Lexus IS 250 struggled with dashboard melting due to the vehicle’s interior not being designed to withstand high temperatures in certain climates. This problem creates an unsightly appearance and poses potential health risks from exposure to melting plastic fumes. Additionally, the glossy surface of the degrading dashboard can cause distracting reflections while driving.
  • Door panels melting: Another melting issue, but less prevalent, the door panels in the Lexus IS 250 are also susceptible to melting in hot climates. This problem further highlights the vehicle’s interior plastics’ inability to withstand extreme heat, particularly in regions known for their sweltering summers.
  • Infotainment system malfunctions: Some 2007 and 2008 Lexus IS 250 owners have reported various problems with the infotainment system. These malfunctions range from screen failures and unresponsive touch screens to certain functions not working correctly.
  • Discoloration of the inside rearview mirror: A relatively uncommon problem, the discoloration of the inside rearview mirror in the Lexus IS 250 may be related to the vehicle’s heat-related issues. If left unaddressed, the discoloration can worsen over time, potentially affecting visibility while driving.
  • Intermittent power steering problems: Although rare, some Lexus IS 250 owners have experienced intermittent power steering failures, which can be dangerous if they occurs while driving. These sporadic steering issues can make it harder to maintain control of the vehicle, even if the problem only lasts for a few seconds.

None of these are necessarily deal breakers, but they can add up to significant maintenance costs over the lifespan of your used vehicle.

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Is the Lexus IS Worth It?

A used Lexus IS is very much worth it, particularly if you’re in the market for a fun, maneuverable vehicle that serves well as a commuting car and as a travel vehicle for a small family. Most newer Lexus IS vehicles also come with extensive safety features, tech upgrades, and other essential elements that enable these cars to fit on the road with much more expensive sets of wheels.

That said, the Lexus IS isn’t the most durable car, especially in used condition. Don’t expect a used one to last for several more decades, even if you take care of it well.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Lexus IS vehicles from 2011 to 2019 are very much worth your time. Just be sure to do a thorough inspection of the car before buying it, and consider taking it on a test drive. Since vehicle model and overall mechanical quality matter so much for this line, it’ll pay for you to take a little extra time to ensure that everything runs well before risking your money and your safety on a used Lexus IS.

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