Kngscup

Hey everyone,

Newly registered today but I've been reading these boards for a little while now that I have been thinking of buying an IS 250, most likely from 2007 or 2008. I currently have a 2008 Chevy Colorado LT Z71, but I don't feel like I really use the truck part of owning a truck and only getting 20 miles a gallon could definitely improve(I love my truck though, absolutely no problems with keeping it). I only get that much because I pretty much drive like a grandma all the time since I drive 300+ miles a week haha. I love the look of the 250s and surprisingly I could afford one in pretty good condition, but the newer ones are most likely out of my price range since I don't really want to spend more than 20k

I've been doing research and it seems like everyone loves these cars when they own one but I want to ask you guys what NEGATIVES you have experienced with these cars and is there anything in particular I should look for when shopping around?

I am mostly looking for a 2007 or 2008 with less than 75k miles in either white or dark gray and the main mods I would do would be to put in a *****in system with a sub, tint the windows, and black out the emblems/lettering with some wheels(most likely black too). I test drove a 2009 yesterday at the Ontario Lexus (California) and it was pretty sweet, plenty of power especially with the way I drive most the time so not too worried about the power aspect.

Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Tim

ydnandy

Welcome to the forums! The 250/350 is an awesome car. I've had my 350 for little over 6 months and I love it. I personally went with the 350 simply for more power, but the looks are the exact same.

From what i've seen about the 250, think people will tell you to make sure its had recalls/service bulletins completed.

I believe the 2009+ have BT audio streaming, the earlier models don't have that.

mrjazz

$20,000? Under 75,000 miles in good condition? In California?

es808

iTrader: (32)

One of the downsides with the 250 is the carbon buildup in the engine. After a while, your car will shudder in idle and you have to bring it to the dealer to get the carbon cleaned out (under a TSIB warranty). The 350s don't suffer from this problem due to the porting of the cylinders.

If you get a MT, then there is an issue with the flywheel/clutch noise when engaging in first gear. Sounds like a jar of marbles sometimes. I have a MT 250 and have this issue with my clutch. But I still love it for it's looks and drivability.

Other than that, it's a nice car to have. It gets good gas mileage for a V6 and is fun to drive, especially when the suspension is modified. Plus everyone here on the CL site is helpful if you have any issues or questions.

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

To answer your thread's title...it's not a 350! LOL! Honestly, if you have the 5 cylinder model Colorado you'll feel slow in the 250. Your best bet is test driving a 250 and a 350 back-to-back. Members say that the small increase in MPG in the 250 is not worth the 100hp loss. Just my $.02.

sm1ke

iTrader: (5)

If you have the option, spring for a 350. You'll appreciate the car so much more. These cars are built like tanks.

I've heard that Lexus paint is thin, so it's easier to damage and more susceptible to rock chips etc. Can anyone confirm that Lexus paint is thin from the factory? I have tons of rock chips in my front bumper/hood, but my car was originally highway driven in Alberta so it makes sense.

KillaIS250

iTrader: (1)

Yeah it is pretty thin. I do have a good number of rock chips on my front end too from commuting back and forth to work. You can always get clear bra to help prevent the rock chips. It's odd though because I had a little accident last year where i bumped into another car and there was 0 paint damage. No cracks or nothing. It was very low speed, but still i was surprised (and happy) it didn't crack lol so despite being thin its not really weak i guess?

ms2619

iTrader: (5)

the main negative is that its SLOW lol and carbon buildup problems

felo2081

If u r buying one make sure it's a 350 with a nav. That was my mistake when I bought mine. My 4matic Mercedes makes my is look like its parked!! If someone would have told me I would have bought a 350!!!!!!

cbishop11

My 6MT IS250 is not necessarily the fastest car I've owned, but its not really slow. I guess with the 6 speed its different because you can decide when to shift and you can tell with the VVTi kicks in. BTW, OP if you dont mind travel, my car will be for sale soon, but its in Texas. Its a dark gray with Nav and a bunch of other goodies that make it nice - '08 with 49kmi on it....

Toys4RJill

I thought I would add some comments as a family member just picked up a Lexus Certified Used IS250 awd with 23k.

Pros: great materials, it has lots of features and options. Seats are nice. Great view out of the front windows, trunk space is decent. Feels like a luxury car inside.

Cons: LOTS of road noise and I would not expect a Lexus at the price point to sound like it does. Paint chips very easily. Very cramped inside. Does have a lot of rattles. And finally, I felt fatigued after driving it.

Good luck!

mililani00

iTrader: (1)

^^^ thats what i was saying, i have a colorado xtreme and it does seem faster then the 250 or maybe its my flowmaster super 44s ? lol