Lexus IS350 & IS250 Most Common Maintenance Issues Explained!

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 Lexus IS250! While these cars are wonderfully reliable, they still have their small little maintenance quirks you should be aware of!
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[@Zergling777]

The vid is senselessly because the Lexus never breaks.

[@MartyMotoring]

Zergling777 it doesn’t break, but it needs to be maintained and a few parts replaced. I’ve had one for 3 years and it has 183,000 miles on it now

[@carswithsonduren]

Exactly these cars need the same care and maintenance that any car would!

[@WarriorsPhoto]

Marty Motoring Exactly all cars have issues. But with proper care they’ll last a long time.

[@csn6234]

Don't change your Lexus' oil and you'll be posting a different comment.

[@chrisw1811]

Hi can anyone advise, is there a video out there on how to replace boot/truck seal on a Lexus 250 is convertible 2009. I am getting water leak inside boot/trunk. Drain holes have been cleaned. Can any anyone help?

[@nandansho]

Everytime he says " My Fiance" take a shot, you'll be lit in 3 minutes.

[@carswithsonduren]

Good thing to do on a Friday night?!

[@mbmstudios07]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@tebjosh13]

straight gettin it

[@MartyMotoring]

If you keep pressing the power button on and off when audio is not working, it’ll eventually activate the amp and make the sound work again. It’s because the amp in the trunk gets moisture due to the design.

[@josemorales347]

Just got my lexus is250 and I had this issue. Its better to take out the amp from its storage and put it on top of its plastic cover.

[@bariborrichard9762]

How many times my own has this problem now

[@luisrosales9349]

My car just says audio off and I can’t seem to fix it. Could it be the amp or is it the bottom piece of the head unit that went out?

[@chouavue10]

wow is this true? so just keep switching on and off and the amp will work again really?

[@chouavue10]

and why does it work? lol

[@cammie0105]

I have a 2008 IS 250 with over 200k miles and I absolutely love it. With as many miles as it has the only maintenance I have to do so far was replace the alternator. Completely normal at this stage in the cars life. I did end up replacing the amp as well because it liked to cut in and out or play out of only some of the speakers as you said in the video. It fixed the issue. My Lexus also likes to drink oil for sure but nothing too major. I did swap to fully synthetic as well. But my main issue with the car that makes me a bit sad is the sticky dash issue. As many know, these cars had a recall (which is no longer in affect) for the dashboards and door panels. They melt from the heat of the sun and becoming soft and sticky. My dash is actually so bad that on a hot day it melts to the point that it looks like it’s wet and creates a glare on the windshield. Needless to say I drive with sunglasses on a sunny day. I really wish Lexus would bring this recall back since it was already out of affect by the time I bought my car. I would love to have it all replaced but I know it won’t happen. Still absolutely love my Lexus though. So many cool features and an all around comfortable, smooth ride. Quick too! Not to mention all the compliments I get. It’s a beautiful car all the way around ❤️

[@desertcat]

I bought a custom sunshade from Covercraft for mine. They are custom made to fit your specific model, come in your choice of colors, and very sturdily built.

[@michelleheimbuch6322]

You might call Lexus, a friend of a friend has an 08 they bought used he contacted Lexus and thy agreed to replace it.

[@cammie0105]

@@michelleheimbuch6322 unfortunately when I contacted them about it they simply told me they were no longer replacing the sticky panels and dash. It’s a bummer but still a great car that looks fantastic inside and out. Luckily I’ve been able to keep the interior in tact. I have seen some with chunks missing from the dash and door panels. As long as you don’t touch any of it, it stays relatively perfect. Everyone that rides in it is told to PLEASE don’t touch 😂

[@JohnnyRawks]

@@cammie0105 I have a 2007 IS350 with the interior panel problems. What a complete bummer. I'm surprised you're not more pissed off about it. I am - lol. I like to keep my cars meticulously clean, and my car inside is complete junk. Cracks all over the dash with some small chunks missing, and mushy door panels. Lexus quality on full display :) Have you ever gotten a quote to have yours replaced and pay for it? I may look into that. You would think Lexus would do it at cost at least i.e. not profit from it, but I don't think they'll even do that. They will actually make money from their mistake. It really makes me mad. My car is super scary fast and reliable - so far. I like that about it. I only have 96k miles on it so far.

[@cammie0105]

@@JohnnyRawks I was definitely pissed about it at first being that I didn’t know anything about this issue until about a week after I bought the car and started having the glare problem. Of course I googled it and looked into the recall just to find out that the recall was canceled only a month before I bought the car. Huge disappointment. I do remember getting a quote from Lexus back then and being blown away by the estimate. Can’t remember the exact price but it was almost as much as what I had in the car itself so that was a definite no for me. But now I’ve had the car going on four years and still use it as my daily driver so I rarely even think about it anymore. The dash and door panels have not gotten any worse so I can’t complain after having it this long. I’ve seen some literally crack, crumble, and fall apart. It’s still a very luxurious and reliable car with all the bells and whistles and it’s very comfortable to drive. All of those small issues I listed in my comment a year ago happened within a few months of owning the car and I haven’t had any new issues since in the whole four years of daily driving it. I can say that I would still recommend this beautiful car to anyone, I would just simply warn them about the dash and door panels because I wasn’t warned. And I have a 98 corvette to play with now so as far as the speed of the 250..there is none 😂

[@kramortsac9930]

I have a rare 2007 IS250 w/ 6 speed manual transmission. I love it! Yes! The audio issue could be annoying sometimes. I had the sticky dashboard replaced for free from my local dealership. With regural basic maintenance I don’t have any mechanical problem. The only thing I change so far besides brakes and tires was shocks/struts for better handling. I would definitely buy this car again.

[@carswithsonduren]

Yeap completely agree and nice find on the manual!

[@KyleMorelli]

I used to own a Subaru Legacy as my winter/daily car, after it got totaled I got an IS250 AWD based on your recommendation as I was looking to get into something more comfortable, luxury, and reliable. Loving it so far! Super comfortable on the road, and you can't beat reliability of Toyota/Lexus!

[@carswithsonduren]

Hey Kyle glad to hear that so far you're loving it these cars are amazing and I'm really happy that I helped you in your car purchase!

[@WarriorsPhoto]

Have you had any abnormal tire wear with your AWD model?

[@neilquinn]

Curious how you compare the two? I had a 2005 Subaru Legacy GT (2.5 turbo model). Was looking at the IS350 since the 250 would be quite a bit slower.

[@begetter8571]

Thank you for this video! I’m looking at a 07 250 with 91k miles. And the other people’s comments with higher mileage and still loving them is very comforting.

[@carswithsonduren]

Good luck on your search but yes you should definitely be confident in this car

[@1alphared]

Such a well done video. Thank you.

[@franciscoribeiro6223]

Looking forward to buying an IS. Just checking on common issues before I do. I've seen a lot of positive e reviews and some hard to find negative. Thank's for your video

[@matthewpereira7269]

I got 07 is250. The car was not maintained well and sat for 5 years I put a little work in new plugs, oil change, brakes, wheels, tires headlights and taillights. the car has a little over 100k miles and still holds up wonderfully. As was said in the video above " I don't think I could kill it if i tried"

[@carswithsonduren]

Fellow Lexus owners with similar issues but still love the car?!

[@NaturallyMike]

Have you dealt with water pump failure and/or oil leak from the timing chain cover which are known issues on these cars?

[@carswithsonduren]

I have not had any water pump failure or oil leak from the timing chain on either the is350 or is250

[@shawn1625]

I agree with most of your assessment except instead of the speakers not working, the touchscreen doesn't like to work in really cold weather. After the car warms up it works again. I'm just short of 200k/mi on my IS350 and I always burn oil and add some in between changes but the engine still runs great. I replaced the water pump @ around 100k/mi and the right rear wheel hub assembly about the same time. I would still really like the car despite the high mileage, but I didn't take care of the plastics/trim and it's definitely aesthetically displeasing.

[@DarkOneK2S]

No issues with mine but I’m with you on loving it. Great car!

[@forald8098]

So I have had the car for (is250) for two years at 114k and all I have to do is replace the water pump. It didn't fail but i wanted to replace it as a maintenance. Also it's the 2006 model

[@Anton.Semenov]

I have never had any issues with my Lexus is250 2010. If you read this and trying to figure out whether you should buy Lexus or not - BUY!!!

[@iceygames3649]

i’ve got an 06 is250 with 153k on the odo and it runs amazing. just got a custom bumper for it !

[@carswithsonduren]

Nice congratulations that sounds great! Any problems you've had with it at all or just regular maintenance?

[@Anton.Semenov]

@@carswithsonduren regular maintenance: oil change, brakes, tires of course. That’s it

[@carswithsonduren]

Of course. Lexus = Tank

[@luxurypickx]

Thanks Anton, I am looking at 250 this weekend.

[@londonh7103]

I just got my 2010 IS250 I hope I love it did tons of research and I got a good deal on it 6500 with 81,000 miles excellent service records and 1 owner needed struts and front wheel bearings besides that everything else was great and I no a Toyota mechanic and he did it for a great price he out of work right now because of the virus so I was happy to give him work

[@jaybe3102]

That's a good deal. I purchased a 2007 Lexus is350 for the same price with 104k miles on it

[@antheusdaniels2459]

What state you bought this in that's a great price

[@cjplays1029]

London H nice buy

[@londonh7103]

Antheus Daniels I live in Cincinnati, Ohio

[@londonh7103]

CJ PLAYS10 thank you

[@the.otis.burger617]

Picked one up an 09 250 3 years ago. Fantastic cars and great value! Timeless exterior design, too.

[@e_richc393]

Absolutely one of the best cars on the road I have a Lexus IS 250 and I luv mine as well great video 👍🏽

[@supagreatman2826]

W

[@TheRedSpider13]

Thanks for the insight! i have had my 2011 is250 for 1 year now, w 158k.

[@flickboogers9325]

What I Love about My '07 IS250 all-wheel drive is that it's a killer in the snow. And the Chicago Winters it's myself 18 wheelers pickup trucks cruising in the highway in the left lane while everyone else is going 30 mph. Beast mode.

Great video! Clean and simple . Very helpful.

[@carswithsonduren]

Thanks Javier and welcome to the channel friend!

[@seantran4178]

Absolutely, I agreed with you. I am a big fan of Lexus IS model. I am currently drive 2007 - IS250 from day-1 that I bought from Lexus dealer started 03 miles. Now my car is nearly 195,000 miles on it. After watching your video of 2023 IS500. I love it. So, my goal from now on is saving money to buy this IS500 model. Thanks to sharing with us about things need to be maintain.

[@alfredo_-we3uc]

best luxury car🤘🏻👍🏻 thank god I got one.

[@seandoc97]

I love my 2008 IS250. I enjoy watching your channel. Great info!!!! Thank you!!!

[@carswithsonduren]

Thanks man! Appreciate the comment and glad your liking the content 👍

[@mccoy1369]

Thank you so much. Your video is very helpful. I'm actually in the market of buying an IS 250. By watching your video I gained more knowledge of what to look for when I go look at whatever car I decide on, so much appreciated. Thank you.

[@carswithsonduren]

Glad I could be of help and welcome to the channel :) lots of videos on the Lexus and goodluck on your hunt they are wonderful cars

[@zoozin]

I love my 2012 Lexus IS250! I bought it a couple months ago and it has around 30k miles on it and in super clean condition!

[@bluelude2001]

30k miles on a 2012? Someone's grandma owned it?

[@spicyham5394]

I have a 2009 XE20 is350 with about 97k miles and I really feel like it's the best car ever. I do share a lot of those common issues but I don't have the head unit issue. I'm happy to hear there were no major mechanical things that happen. Have a good day :)

[@lyricsantamaria]

Love my 2011 is250 almost 187k miles. I'm the 2nd owner and got it from Keyes of Van Nuys so def dealing with LA traffic on the daily... My leather started to tear a bit on my driver seat not a big deal, got it patched. Yes, definitely drinks oil like crazy. Changed the battery less than a hand full of times as well as new sets of tires every few years but that's maintenence for u and no major issues. My horn sounds wimpy right now (cuz the second horn went out) but again not a big deal easy fix...it's over 10 years old and still amazing. U take care of it and it'll take care of u!😊

[@anthonyshih1337]

that is an excellent tutorial, all those issues i have or am experiencing with my blessed 2008 is 350, with 240,000 km, feel much better knowing these are common to most is250 and 350, andbthanks for the remedies ! GOD BLESS you !

[@carswithsonduren]

Anytime Anthony welcome to the channel lots more videos to come on the Lexus so make sure you subscribe

[@Gautham96]

I daily my white 08 ISF with 115k (owned since 70k 1year ago). The car is rock solid and the engine burns no oil. I use any brand name synthetic oil from Walmart and a Toyota filter every 6k miles. I’ve only had to change the tires, transmission fluid flush at 105k, and front and rear pads with the original rotors from the factory at 85k. It really shows the quality of Lexus because even now at 115k the rotors aren’t warped and it has all original bulbs. The only “problem” I have is a small squeaking noise that comes from behind the glove box when it’s hot out. Next on the list is a suspension refresh and and spark plugs at 120k. Normally I would be hesitant to spend money on a high mileage car but I have no doubt the car will last at least 300k hard driven miles. Coming from a n54 335i, owing an ISF is a whole different experience.

[@carswithsonduren]

That is amazing to hear the ISFs are beautiful cars. Congratulations on the success with yours I am sure she will treat you well as she ages!

[@henry222ist]

i got a 2006 Lexus is350, no issues, get it rust proofed every 2 years, use 100% synthetic oil and as for the fuel cleaner, i do that few times a year.

[@denverhernandez4000]

I'm thinking about buying either the 250 or the 350 love the video thanks for the info

[@fhd3715]

Nice video, did not know some of these common issues yet. Very nice cars indeed!

[@carswithsonduren]

Thanks! Welcome to the channel as well 👍

[@_MIKIMOTO_]

I have 08 IS 250 143K still driving like a champ I too love my baby Lexus for the win

[@LostNexus]

I've had my 2007 is350 for a year now it's my first car and I love it the only issue I've had was the amplifier not working after it rains I have to wait for it to dry up then it starts working again also I get really low mpg maybe cause I mainly do city driving and not a lot of highway driving but I still love it

[@MartyMotoring]

Nice video! I have experience with all of this on my IS350. It burns a bit of oil even with full synthetic but it’s not bad really. About a quart every 5000 miles.

[@carswithsonduren]

Exactly and honestly if anything it is a testimate to Lexus quality even the issues that present themselves over the years are consistent and common, which means very tight manufacturing tolerances and variations in quality control

[@WarriorsPhoto]

That’s really good. I’ve seen cars that burn a little more. Ah cough (honda b series) Excuse me. Mazda rotaries come to mind.

[@jake2772]

Hey I’ve got a 2007 gs350 155k miles on it and I’m burning a qt every 1k miles on full synthetic. Still averaging 29mpg on the freeway and around 21 combined. That dang oil though. Side note it’s been dealer maintained consistently since day 1.

[@polakowm905]

@@jake2772 hey Jake same story here exactly 91 and premium synthetic. 188km and burns quart 1000km..

[@sahifamadhar652]

Mine is burning a lot of oil.. What can be the reasons??

[@chriscmatthews]

Great video, thanks. Only thing that does not ring true for my 2006 is350 is low grade fuel issues. I ran into some brief financial troubles 3 years ago and nervously went with regular fuel. Zero performance, consumption, or knock issues. I used 87 for about 6 months and have used 89 since (expect for the month before emissions testing just in case)

[@javierorozco4193]

I drive a 2007 IS250 with 315,000 miles and everything you talked about is spot on. The issues I have is engine knocking ( I use Arco gas low grade but changing that on my next fill up). The one that has me scratching my head is the heater taking longer than normal to kick in. Also I have to be moving in order for it to keep working. Next is the weighted trunk arm that opens n closed the lid smoothly. It’s heavy to open and it closes hard. Great video and I am now subscribed .

[@carswithsonduren]

Welcome to the channel Javier it’s great to hear your rocking an IS250 as well and with a lot of mileage still pulling strong :)

[@123mrguy1]

I had the same heating problem with my old nissan xterra. After sometime i found that my coolant levels were low. The heater wont work unless theres coolant reaching the heater core.

[@robertbobby4598]

You may want to check the heater core as well.

[@fiyinadebayo]

I got my 2010 IS250 about a month ago, and I'm having the same audio issue as you described. I did some research and looks to be the Amp. I'm having a Lexus mechanic change it tomorrow. Seems to be a common issue like you said. The car drives really well and responsive on high speed.

[@StillMatic93]

Is it expensive to fix ?

[@federicolrobinson]

It isn't the amp that is wrong, is that there is moisture from outside the car that gets to the amp. You'll need to seal that around your new amp or it will happen again

[@JP_MALTESE]

I am French, and I currently live in France. I came across this model by chance in the used car classifieds. I was looking to change car, I could never have been better off! I will therefore become the proud owner of a 2006 IS 250 in a few days. I just subscribed to your channel, even if it's not my mother tongue, fortunately KZbin allows automatic translation... ^^ Thank you for your work!

[@carswithsonduren]

That’s awesome John welcome to the channel and CONGRATULATIONS on the IS250. You will absolutely love the car I can promise you that. It’s a joy to drive and own.

[@Howtocreatewinningfocalsbeads]

I haven’t found any issues yet with my 2021 IS 350 F sport but I’ll keep you posted. The car is amazing

[@abdelyusuf6365]

I have the same issue with the audio system and what I usually do is turn it off then I turn it back on by hitting the AM/FM button and the sound will come back on

[@deejackson6690]

I have a 2006 with almost 300,00 miles on it and it still runs great. And trust me, I have put this car thru hell over the 9 years that I have had it!! These are awesome cars!!!!!

[@carswithsonduren]

Wow great to hear that’s incredible! How often are you doing oil changes? Have you ever replaced the transmission oil?

[@morahman86]

Did you get your timing changed on your lexus or how many miles did you do without changing the timing chain

[@willcorzo2696]

@@morahman86 just had my timing chain looked at, said it was fine - my 07' has over 220k miles

[@lolzorsPwnage]

Great video thank you for the info

[@carswithsonduren]

Glad it was helpful welcome to the channel!

[@chimichangazon6526]

Great video! I purchased a 2014 IS250 back in 2020 and it has been a breeze ever since. I got a good deal on it and plus I figured the kinks had been worked out by then only regret is not spending more for a 350 but the 250 rides smooth and probably saves $ in tickets

[@carswithsonduren]

Exactly! Congratulations and welcome to the channel. It’s an awesome car that will last a lifetime.

[@frbosse1]

Also, major issue to check every year after 150,000 km: transmission fluid and filter. Change the oil yearly at that point. If you it will run like new.

[@lavazza8031]

Salut c est pas 60000 /80000 bva fluid ?

[@frbosse1]

@@lavazza8031 really depends how you drove it. I did a lot of highway mileage and now because of age (2009), I need to check the filter and fluids yearly.

[@jeffumbach]

Changing the transmission strainer every year is just insane overkill, you'll need a new gasket every time as well and each time you're risking snapping one of those twenty tiny bolts that holds the pan on which are not so easy to drill out when it happens.

[@davidxu9146]

I just got a 2006 gs300 and it came with the audio on and off issue with it. I thought it is a wire contact issue and easy to fix if I pull out that audio unit. It is good that I watched your video now I know I don't want to waste my effort:) thank you. It is highly likely a common problem with GS models also.

[@txphatboi]

I own a 2011 silver Lexus is250.. I can relate to these common issues. Oil burning quickly, radio will just cut off when it wants and then rust, a little spot on the trunk. With that being said, I love my car. It’s been good to me. Thanks for this video even though this is from 2 years ago.

[@carswithsonduren]

I just followed up with another recent video that still echos this! There are only minor gripes which are honestly not so bad. Love this car and will be keeping it until she wont run anymore.

[@MrShane008]

My biggest issue has been the door lock actuators going out. I also have the vvt/cam gear rattle occasionally on start up...Otherwise, great car! I've hit 113k miles on my 2007 IS250. I'll seriously consider a slightly newer model next time around.

[@derekquinones8614]

Is the vvt/cam gear rattle something to worry about It?

[@safranmohammed4839]

yups, the door locks goin out is actually a known issue in the 2nd gen IS.

[@chris_jorge]

Dang my just went out!😊

[@omoniyikaye]

I have driven Lexus since 2003 they’re the most reliable machine out there I can’t be bother with any other cars.

[@marlonpayne5554]

thank you very informative video, most people just talked about features, i have a lexus 2010 is 250, yes i sudscribed

[@MikeSaucyLive]

great video thank you

[@Ari2hottie]

You look like the Manchester City player Riyad Mahrez

[@VanOstrandTherese]

I've had my 08 IS 250 for 12 years. It has 177K miles. It's always been super reliable. My biggest repair has been replacing the water pump. I have no audio issue. I have also found that is burns oil. I have to add a quart about every 4-6 weeks. I would definitely buy this car again. I absolutely love it.

[@carswithsonduren]

Glad to hear you are experiencing the same as well :) welcome to the channel 🙏

[@michaelwoolford]

I have an early 2011 is250 and love it. I WISH we got the is350 in the uk as I would have surely bought it! But nonetheless absolutely brilliant car that gives me confidence it won’t throw out big bills to repair!

[@shondrablalock4737]

Hello, I just seen your video on maintenance of a is 350 and is 250 lexus. The video was very helpful. I've had my 2011 IS 250 Lexus for over a little 6 years. I love it. I only have general maintenance issues such as; replacing the brakes, Oil changes on the appropriate mileage. The only thing that is annoying for me is the constant light warning ⚠️ appearing due to low air or an object stuck in one or all my tires. At least twice a month I'm either getting my tires repaired or either pursuing another tire for my vehicle.

[@carswithsonduren]

Glad you found the video helpful and congratulations on owning such a great car! Welcome to the channel!

[@Qrazey]

Just got my 09 IS 250 with 120KM, had it for about 1 year now. Only issue I had so far is the window trim, other then that so far so good

[@carswithsonduren]

Will probably last you forever

[@ceejay930]

How much did you spend if you don't mean me asking

[@Qrazey]

@@ceejay930 12,500 In Canada

[@Magnus1718]

I have a similar issue when it comes to the audio problem. My way of resolving it is to rapidly turn the radio on and off until you hear sound in your speakers 🔊. It seems to work every time - 2007 IS 250

[@gunz1er627]

I have a 2008 Is250 with 203,000k and runs good had issues with the radio but like u said it will come back eventually. I put Airlift performance 3P management on it and the car looks sexy when u can bag it out overall my VSC light came on with the check engine but overall car is great and my $8k invest i did to it is worth it.

[@kianacharese413]

I bought a 2006 Lexus IS250 Luxury Edition last week. I truly appreciate your content! I can feel myself going down a rabbit hole lol I feel safe and 100% like I made a great purchase. Best wishes 🚗 💨

[@carswithsonduren]

Congratulations Kiana! The car will treat you well, what color you get?! How many km on the car?

[@kianacharese413]

@@carswithsonduren I got black with black interior. It’s beautiful! It has 140,000 miles on it but it rides like a dream! Now you have me thinking I can do my own oil changes lol I might be biting off more than I can chew 🤔 lol

[@carswithsonduren]

Nice congratulations Kiana make sure to keep that black paint in tip top shape

[@Magnus1718]

You made an excellent choice

[@kianacharese413]

@@Magnus1718 thank you 🥰 I love it!

[@sagemode5889]

Thank you for these videos! Hopefully I’ll be getting a 09 Lexus is250 with 80k miles on it. Hopefully it lasts me a long time!

[@ahmadabuagila504]

im getting one tomorrow with 85k miles, how's ur Lexus treating you

[@Barely2JZ]

@@ahmadabuagila504 how u doin. Lexus IS gang reporting for dury

[@ahmadabuagila504]

@@Barely2JZ Hey man, i'm doing great thanks for asking how are you??

[@YienLiu]

I would say the two most common issues that are actually mechanical is 1) carbon build up on intake valves in is250. It’s direct injection only unlike the is350 so you’ll need to either get it walnut blasted or use DIY sprays to clean it regularly. If you have the option, is350 is a better, more reliable choice. 2) for both the is350 and 250, especially the older gens with higher mileage, it’s likely that the valve cover gasket is leaking because it’s made of rubber which hardens over time and will eventually fail to seal. For my car, 2012 is250 80k miles, has started to have oil appear around one of the spark plug heads because of a failed seal. This might cause misfiring and decreased performance.

[@fxkingstr]

Is there a difference in fuel consumption between the is250 and is350?

[@carswithsonduren]

@fxkingstr minimal and not noteworthy.

[@ihteshamkhan4696]

@@carswithsondurennot really. carbon buildup is a pretty prominent issue on the IS250 and it can result in misfires. it will frequently require carbon cleaning every 40,000 kms or so, cleaning out the valves manually or walnut blasting it. otherwise you will notice a consistent rough idle, dropping rpms and multiple cylinder misfires

[@yolandavanwyk6467]

I am still head over heels in love with my IS350...and will always be!🙏🏻👌

[@carswithsonduren]

It’s an awesome car no reason to not be in love!

[@gabrieloconnell3434]

great video my friend i am about to buy one of these awesome cars

[@carswithsonduren]

Thanks and welcome to the channel!

[@kaptainkanguru101]

For my 09 IS250(RWD\man. 6 sp), I tried High Mileage (or extended mileage) engine Full synthetic oil from Mobil and it does reduces the oil consumtion significantly. But, you gotta stick to it. Besides, If you can afford it, go with IS350, rather than the IS250. The IS 250's engine (2,5L) is too small for that car. Works well for your mom, but it feels like a very lazy 1.8L(4cyl), which is a disappointment since the car is designed for high performance driving. Most importantly, I found out that the IS250 engine is a ''high revolution'' type. It needs to be reved up much higher than other convetional v6 in order to get a little bit of torque (3,500 to 5,000 rpm), and also, riding it at mostly high rev will SAVE THE ENGINE TO BUILT UP SLUDGE and carbon deposit SO FAST. It will still happen, but much slower. After all, great cars, amazing handling, minimum wind resistance front and lateral, never fails to start, many high performances structural features, looks fancy asf, sound proof inside cabin quiet like a recording studio, front seats very comfy (but zero legs room for adults at the back), will easily last beyond 350,000km. The IS350 is Scotty Kilmer no1 used car to purchase at all time. Beware, you will not want to own anything else after you experienced commuting in a Lexus.

[@AmrTX2015]

watch out for timing cover leaks I have minor seepage in my 2006 IS350 and they happen in the 250 as well, won't be fixing it in my 2006 IS350 and if you are buying be extra careful as it cost $3000 if not more to fix it as the engine will need to come out of the car in order to replace the cheap seal as it can't be done without pulling the engine out, I've been driving the car for almost 3 years now while keeping an eye on the dipstick and topping off every 4-6 weeks as it burns a little oil like an old car with more than 150,000 Miles would, great car fast, reliable and good looking, Get the 350 not the 250 if you like power and speed and to avoid the carbon build-up due to the direct injection design in the 250 vs the port injection in the 350 that washes the carbon down regularly,

[@jeffumbach]

Yeah as long as it's slow seepage many just ignore that leak, if you're going to pull the engine out to fix it and have a lot of miles on it might as well do an overhaul or outright replace the engine at that point given all the labor involved.

[@user-xi1on9sw7c]

have a IS350 2009 and have experienced everything mentioned but haven't seen any rust. A couple things not mentioned such as the headlights that should move up and down based on angle of the car, there are small rods attached at the front and back drivers side suspension, both rusted and I've fixed using a tie strap to hold them in a "normal" position. Also the front hood latch spring can break making the hood hard to close since the spring hold the latch open when the hood is up. Still love the car.

[@trish6376]

Yes Yes....I recently purchased a 2016 IS300 model with very very low kms. It was a bit pricey but I love it so far...I pray 🙏🏽to God I don't encounter any issues with Lexus.

[@denvernn]

I'm a Honda/Acura guy but I've always loved this gen IS. Holds a special place for me. Beautifully styled. Just love the shape and lines. And it seems to fit me like a glove. I've never owned one...... 1 day. Good job on the review. Have you ever Krowned or rust proofed yours?

[@WarriorsPhoto]

denvernn How do you feel about the new NSX?

[@denvernn]

@@WarriorsPhotoOld one is great. Essentially its a very reliable cost effective exotic car. By cost effective I mean the maintenance wont beat u up compared to other exotic cars. U dont wanna know how much an oil change is for an Aston. The NSX looks great, very mechanical and wonderful to drive even today. The new NSX is expensive. I find to be good as well. Right now it hasn't been well received but I find with Acura they usually are ahead. When the 4th gen TL (2009-2014) came out it wasn't well received. But look today. I see them everywhere and they sell very quickly. Its a very capable decent reliable sporty luxury car. And the Super handling all wheel drive is just amazing! Give it some time and u will see same thing with the current NSX. Japanese reliability and dependability. So to answer I would recommend an NSX yes.

[@WarriorsPhoto]

denvernn My bad I thought I had said the new one. So what do you think?

[@denvernn]

@@WarriorsPhoto Apologies I was editing my comments above.

[@WarriorsPhoto]

@@denvernn It's all good. What do you think of the new one? Come on let's have a conversation. ;)

[@thembamkhokheli8009]

That's amazing bro... Mine is 320000 km. Is 250. Still going no major issues, I only changed the alternator, expect that

[@shelbydriscoll9219]

Hey I have a Lexus IS 250 and I started smelling an electrical burning smell kinda like burning wires coming from under the hood... I don’t understand what is causing it. The codes were ran and nothing came up... but i did read that it could be the alternator going bad but I haven’t had any battery issues yet do u know if the alternator going bad could cause this smell

[@carswithsonduren]

Could potentially be your alternator but it's really hard for me to diagnose just based on that. Especially odd if you're not throwing any codes... Is the smell that bad? Like is it clear something is obviously wrong?

[@shelbydriscoll9219]

@@carswithsonduren hey so it ended up being a trash bag stuck under the car and melting on the exhaust pipes lol!!!

[@carswithsonduren]

Lmfao that's so random but glad you found it Shelby and it wasn't anything serious:)

[@cholmes1969]

I’ve got a 2010 IS350c, in addition to the oil burn, I also just replaced the trunk lift support struts. Lexus quoted $400+ to replace, I replaced them for

[@Specalez]

I also own a 2009 IS250 and experienced that radio audio problem. It doesn't affect me at all though because I only ever listen to music from my phone using aux, and that has no problems at all

[@differentbreed3446]

I bought a 2014 IS 250c convertible with 20000 miles for 30k. I used to be a benz guy ( money pit) Lexus IS the shit , I wish I knew it years ago .

[@Min-lt9ct]

Questions, I know IS comes with performance tires which only expected to last for 15,000 miles or 20,000 miles, what is your recommendation for next tire that last longer than stock tires?

[@edbercaw5833]

I use Michelin pilot super sport. Fantastic. Last a long while. Try em!

[@ahmedhakimi8049]

Thank you for all your information nice video and I just about to buy a 350 2009.

[@carswithsonduren]

Thanks Ahmed! Welcome to the channel and let me know how your purchase goes 👍

[@roxtersene8373]

Great video .The problems might be due to air in Canada Hre in London we dont seems to have these issues but the we only have the is250and 220d models

[@travisfelix28felix95]

I own a 2006 Lexus IS350 and yea the only problem is gas ⛽ and oil 🛢 consumption . Apart from that it works really great 👍

[@Don_Latino]

Yours do short engine oil because i am facing that same problem with mine

[@Heizenberg.]

5:07 check the amplifier box in the rear trunk. Probably some humidity got there.

[@woohoo4986]

closed the vent, cover up with a cloth in the winter and visa versa ))

[@Heizenberg.]

@@woohoo4986 mind the ventilation and amp fans...

[@GryzzliBear]

I own a 2006 Lexus IS250 and I absolutely love the vehicle other than I few issues. Everything positive that this guy says is true. Mine has 126,000 miles under the hood. I just replaced the spark plugs and serviced the transmission. I’ve only ever put premium gas in the tank and I’ve always followed the recommended maintenance schedule. Synthetic oil only. I do notice a few aesthetic issues with the aging of the plastic but nothing major there. Although recently I’ve ran into some electrical issues. I’m taking it into the shop here soon to get the issue resolved. Last time it had electrical problems it turned out to just be a 10 amp fuse. So for me personally I’ve experienced some nuanced electrical problems other then those. 9/10 on this Lexus IS250. I highly recommend one of these vehicles.

[@carswithsonduren]

Great to hear you’re having a similar experience. Yes these are small little items that do not cause too much pain to the mind or to the wallet but they do exist due to age. Small price to pay compared to the German counterparts.

[@bukkysonubi4129]

Nice video. I'm planning to get the Lexus IS250 when I get to Winnipeg but my concern is the big price difference between Canada and US.

[@themeparktre4841]

You mentioned MPG it’s a V6 what do you expect it gets pretty decent for a V6 in my opinion I had a impala and it’s a V6 I was averaging about 18 mpg so when I upgraded to the is250 I was happy to have more mpg

[@blancoguy4105]

Right. Lol. I average about 25 mpgs in my IS250. You won't catch me complaining. Lol

[@csn6234]

Dude, have you ever heard of punctuation? You should try it sometime. People will actually think you are educated.

[@themeparktre4841]

CSN excuse me dude I didn’t know I was in English class. No need to be fucking rude in the comment section asshole go on about your day 👋🏽

[@nguyentrong1459]

yeah, very good

[@eddiechan2115]

Nice video. I have my IS250 for over 15 years now. I love it. It's a great reliable car. The plastic dashboard and door panels are now showing lines of cracks. Not a big deal, it's just cosmetic. The car's been through 15 years of cold winter and hot summer in Ontario. I heard that in the US, Lexus is offering free warranty replacement on these cracking panels. However I went to my local Lexus dealer to enquiry about it, they said free replacement is not being offered in Canada.

[@carswithsonduren]

Hey Eddie, great to hear your car is running great. Those minor cosmic things are so minor anyway as you mentioned :) thanks for the update with Lexus, wouldn’t have expected it to be honest!

[@billfuego1680]

Hi. I just purchased a 2006 Lexus IS250 w/ 155,000 miles on it just last week. I had read about how the 2007 & 2008 models were prone to dashboard melting and low and behold I witnessed both inside door trims starting to melt the other day on mine, so I grabbed the biggest blanket I could find and threw it over my windows to try and mitigate the situation. Other than the smaller nature of the car itself(I'm 5'10 and almost head almost touches the ceiling and I must be careful when exiting cuz I've bumped my head pretty good already) otherwise, this is a absolutely fantastic ride and I LOVE IT! Idk what I can do about the dashboard/plastic melting, perhaps get me some strong window tent and using a sun visor on my windshield religiously this Spring/Summer🤔 I highly recommend this car to anyone who is under 6 feet tall. Most definitely. Thank you for making this video. Look forward to watching more. - Bill B. Virginia USA

[@carswithsonduren]

That’s awesome congratulations! You’re going to love the car. It’s such a wonderful drive and so reliable. I’m glad you found a videos helpful and welcome to the channel I’ll have more videos to come :)

[@TheAnonymous006]

I don’t have any of these issue, but for someone out there. If you get a contact rattle on the driver side dash board (pig like noise). I found a solution! Put felt tape between the speedometer and plastic where the two screws underneath it meet. It’ll save you hundreds at the dealer. Comment if you need more details.

[@terranceblakely500]

I hear that noise from time to time

[@TheAnonymous006]

When it happens push the bezel in front of the speedometer upwards where the clip screws. My rattle comes from the left side. I’ve finally been able to get it to stop, I think the felt tape took some time to soften over the summer. @TerranceBlakely

[@dakeda2024]

I hate that. Like to just throw a fist through the plastic glass piece while driving like robocob did the screen in pt 1 lol

[@mz_gemini_336]

I have 2007 IS250. I agree gas consumption is crazy and don’t let it get below 1/4 tank. But I love this car may give to my daughter after I drive the shit out of it.

[@prettybrwneyez7757]

Yeah mine is a gas guzzler

[@SylviaDziuba]

Thanks for the video. We have a 2008 IS 250, and we have experienced some of the things you're talking about, except the audio drop-out; ours works every time. However, we have the Mark Levinson system, and it seems that one of the back speakers needs to be replaced because it's making a crackling noise - I've heard this can be quite expensive to repair. Having said that, we are the second owner of the car and absolutely love it! We'll be keeping it forever.

[@carswithsonduren]

Awesome to hear! Small things like that do pop up from time to time but the car is otherwise rock solid!

[@NASAsKILLZ]

Absolutely love this car

[@carswithsonduren]

Same ❤️

[@slamamsters]

I want a IS 350 so bad for my first car but the demand for them is so damn high suddenly. Whenever a good example goes for sale, literally the ad is taken down within a couple days because it gets sold. There are a few ads that have been up for a few weeks because they're rare examples of neglect. Excellent performance, reliability for the price.

[@carswithsonduren]

Agreed keep looking you will eventually find something but make sure you act on it quick and do the due diligence

[@jeffumbach]

Because people with IS350s and ISFs rarely want to give them up.

[@matthewpadilla9017]

I get great mpg on my Lexus is250 I average 25 in the city and about 32 on the highway.

[@nancypolom2512]

My Is 350 averages around 17

[@KD-mz5xv]

great info.. maybe a future owner

[@carswithsonduren]

Hopefully soon

[@eustachymotyka5881]

one thing to remember,if your lex is250 was made between 2005 and 2007 You should not use e10 petrol, only premium e5 fuel should be used. ethanol additive is corrosive to fuel pumps .

[@Dxxpe.2IS]

As far as the amp I wrapped it two grocery bags so the moisture won’t get to it . Never gave me a problem after that

[@dakeda2024]

Good thinking

[@elizabethlockmer-ramirez564]

1:21 missing lug nut lol

[@arshazam3228]

Thank you bro I was scared to buy a lexus is 250 but you did remind constantly these cars are ' Built Different ' 🙌👍😇👏

[@carswithsonduren]

Awesome! No need to be worried with these vehicles. They truly are built like tanks.

[@arshazam3228]

@@carswithsonduren Thank you bro so much for ur approval lol

[@itsasimulation7461]

GREAT VIDEO WOULD RECOMMEND TO ANYONE GETTING A 2ND GEN IS MODEL, this popped up in my recommended I’m assuming because I’ve been looking up is250 videos on KZbin, I have a 2006 is250 that has started showing many of the issues you describe haha for now my audio hasnt totally given out but the actually navigation part of the system bit the dust a couple weeks ago so hopefully full audio isn’t going to be following soon 🙏😅

[@GameOver321]

Great review, thanks. I'm in NY, I'm in the market for a awd 250. I found an 06 with 50k miles for only $7,500...seems too good to be true.

[@blancoguy4105]

Wow. I thought mine had low mileage. Lol. I'm sitting at 115k in an 06 IS250. Love that AWD so much.

[@Stranger_In_The_Alps]

It’s stolen

[@lawrenceburls4673]

I have 250is 2012 bought from a old fella with 12.500 miles it's like new I love it .Had a Mercedes Eclass w11 before what a heap of trash compared to the Lexus .

[@carswithsonduren]

Wow that is basically brand-new congratulations you are going to love the car

[@csn6234]

IS250. Not 250IS.

[@Driving_Somewhere]

Hi from Singapore...I love your videos. Amazing reliability! By the way - Have you ever done a fuel filter change? Are you still on the original ignition coils?

[@carswithsonduren]

I am still on the original fuel filter and ignition coils! I really want to visit Singapore one day thank you for being a subscriber!

[@Driving_Somewhere]

@@carswithsonduren Looks like there's really isn't much to do at all with these hardy Lexus drive-trains! Hit me up if you ever swing in...we can go around in my GRL11 GS250 (95,000 km young) ....

[@earlcameron763]

Everything you say is true. I live in Australia and own a 2006 Lexus IS250 with 170,000kms on the clock. Have owned it for 4 years and only issue was a new alternator! I have it serviced every 10,000kms. I only use synthetic engine oil and the car has proved awesome. Very reliable. My one problem is the height of the drivers seat. I am 6ft tall and my head almost touches the roof. The seat is lowered to maximum. Otherwise I love it and am thinking of upgrading to the IS350 especially after you said the fuel consumption is not much more than the IS250. Thanks mate and good on ya!

[@carswithsonduren]

Glad to here you have loved it as well and agree :) Amazing cars!

[@lextacy2008]

Dont forget the carbon buildup problem which will trigger about 4 different codes

[@evanverdoorn3532]

lextacy2008 what codes

[@lextacy2008]

@@evanverdoorn3532 301 302 303 and 420

[@TonyDelMonte]

During the seven years with my IS250, it had a water pump replaced, one O2 sensor and an alternator. I still love the way it drives. But the one common Lexus fault that pisses me off is wheel corrosion.

[@dakeda2024]

Wat??

[@jaymarie3345]

I recently replaced all 3

[@cheddergetter]

Hey man I believe your audio problem is the amp, I’ve had the same symptoms as you did, I’m on my second amp on my 08 is350, if you decide to replace your amp make sure you put foam on the vent just below where the amp sits that’s where water and moisture seem to come from, I got my amp for about 120 cad shipped from Europe as USA was prices was around 400-600 Anyways good luck

[@carswithsonduren]

Thanks for the heads up man j really appreciate it

[@alighasdi4950]

Thanks mate