Used Lexus IS (XE30) review

Exterior:

• There have been a few isolated reports of door lock actuator failures; however, these instances are very rare and do not represent a widespread problem. This issue appears even less common on post-2020 updated models, for which no credible complaints have been found.
• Regarding the brakes, some owners have noted a significant amount of brake dust, particularly on F Sport variants. While not a defect, this can be a minor annoyance for those who prioritise keeping their wheels spotless.
• A more notable concern across the range is premature wear of the inner front tyres. This is typically attributed to the lower control arm bushes flexing under load during braking and cornering, causing alterations to the front toe angle and accelerating tyre wear. Drivers with a lighter foot may not notice this, but more enthusiastic drivers could find their front tyres lasting only around 15,000 kilometres. Fortunately, this issue can be remedied by fitting aftermarket bushes or using the more robust bushes from the RCF model, which better withstand the stresses involved.
• Regarding the IS 500, although not officially sold in Australia, a limited number of IS 500s have entered the market through grey imports from Japan. Notably, some U.S. owners have reported the absence of certain conveniences such as power-folding mirrors, which are standard on the Japanese models; thus, vehicles equipped with this feature in Australia are likely JDM imports. That said, the lack of such features may reduce potential electronic faults, though Lexus models are generally known for their reliability and minimal electronic issues. In fact, the third-generation IS range has no significant or consistent complaints relating to exterior electronics, which is a testament to its build quality.
• Early owners of US-market examples noted that the front bumper could sag slightly at the edges, resulting in uneven panel gaps between the front bumper and the adjoining quarter panels and bodywork. Lexus appears to have addressed this on later production models, and most dealerships in the United States reportedly rectified the issue under warranty.

  Interestingly, there have been very very few documented cases of this concern affecting the Japanese market IS500. What’s particularly noteworthy, and somewhat amusing, is that even at its most pronounced, the panel gap variation is minimal. In fact, many other manufacturers might consider such discrepancies well within acceptable tolerance levels.

  This highlights just how exacting Lexus owners are accustomed to regarding build quality. A panel gap that would likely be deemed acceptable, and perhaps even admirable, by brands such as Tesla, Range Rover, or Mercedes-Benz is regarded as a fault by Lexus enthusiasts. It speaks volumes about the brand’s reputation for exceptionally tight manufacturing standards.

Interior:

• Earlier pre-2020 models have occasionally been reported to develop minor creaks and rattles, especially when subjected to rough Australian road conditions. While not severe, this may be noticeable to those expecting near-silent cabin environments.
• Additionally, some of the earlier cars have exhibited air conditioning performance that diminishes over time. Causes may include low refrigerant, clogged cabin filters, or, in rare cases, compressor failure. Prospective buyers should verify that the air conditioning functions effectively and consistently.
• The infotainment system, while serviceable, is not particularly advanced. Across all variants, including the fully equipped more recent F Sport models, the system lacks wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support and relies on a trackpad controller that can prove awkward to use, especially in right-hand-drive configurations. Post-2020 updates introduced a larger touchscreen that significantly improved usability, yet the system still trails competitors like BMW’s iDrive and Audi’s MMI.
• Importantly, Japanese-import IS 500s may have infotainment functions, such as radio and navigation, restricted to the Japanese market, resulting in limited functionality in Australia. (This can be resolved with aftermarket products).
• Nevertheless, unlike many rivals, the IS is free from common issues such as phantom electrical faults, water leaks, or deteriorating trim, making for a durable and trouble-free interior.

Mechanical:

• The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine (8AR-FTS) has proven reliable overall, though its more complex turbocharged design demands regular maintenance to ensure longevity. While no recurring faults have been identified, owners should not neglect routine servicing.
• The 2.5-litre petrol hybrid four-cylinder (2AR-FXE) has demonstrated even greater reliability than the petrol-only variants. Its simpler architecture, lacking a turbocharger and featuring fewer emissions-related components, contributes to fewer potential issues.
• Some minor problems have been reported, such as stuck-open EGR valves or coolers leading to rough running, which can be tricky to diagnose.
• Rare cases of high-pressure fuel pump leaks have also occurred.
• The fourth-generation Toyota hybrid battery system in the IS is notably robust, with the main maintenance requirement being the cleaning of the cooling fan filter. Battery replacement is possible without dealership intervention, with reputable third-party options available.
• The 2.5-litre and 3.5-litre petrol V6 (2GR-FKS) have a well-earned reputation for durability, though occasional failures of the water pump and thermostats have been reported. Thermostats typically stick open, causing cooler-than-normal engine operation and fault codes. Replacing the thermostat alongside the water pump is advisable when servicing.
• Other sporadic issues include high-pressure fuel pump faults and purge valve malfunctions causing lean codes, but these remain infrequent.
• Hybrid models utilise Toyota’s eCVT transmission, which is considered one of the more reliable continuously variable transmissions available, provided regular servicing is maintained.
• The 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 (2UR-GSE), shared with the IS F and RC F, is widely regarded as one of the most reliable modern V8 engines.
• The primary known issue is coolant leakage from the valley plate cover, which requires significant disassembly to repair, including removal of the intake manifold. It is sensible to replace the water pump concurrently, as it is another potential weak point in the cooling system.
• Some isolated reports mention high-pressure fuel pump problems and occasional moderate oil consumption.
• Earlier 2nd Gen variants, particularly those in pre-2016 IS F models, could experience timing chain tensioner wear, though this has not been observed in the IS 500.
• All non-hybrid petrol variants are paired with conventional automatic transmissions that are generally trouble-free when serviced approximately every 80,000 kilometres.