dngfx

Hello everyone,

I'm planning to buy a second hand IS250 AWD. My budget is around 20k so I'm looking at cars between 2006 and 2008. I've never owned a Lexus before and I hope you guys can help me out on a few questions.

1. I know Lexus is reliable in general, but are there any particular problems with this model that I should watch out for when checking out the cars?

2. How does the RWD model perform in the winter(with winter tires of course). This car will be my daily driver and I live in Toronto, ON. Has any of the RWD owners had problem pulling out of a parking lot after a snow storm?

3. I noticed that some cars have yellow lights and some have the nicer-looking white light coming out of the HIDs. I'm just wondering if that comes with a particular package.

Any comment would help Thanks!

vapid2323

1. Carbon Buildup on the 250s, do a search info is all over
2. Thats up to how you drive, also turning off the traction control will help. Most people dont have an issue. If RWD is even being thought about buy a 350 to save yourself the carbon issues noted in question 1.
3. Well make sure the car has HIDs, if not you will get the yellow.

Hope that gets you started

dngfx

Thanks for the info.

1.
The carbon buildup issue is scary. Now I'm a bit discouraged. It seems that lot of people have to replace their pistons which is not even a permanent fix. Since it's a problem with the fuel injection system, it happens on the 350s too doesn't it? Is there a particular model year where this problem is more prominent in?

3. Do the HIDs come in a package or it's a standard feature on the newer models?

kickin8

iTrader: (1)

1. If you do a search, you will know Lexus issued a CSP that covers the carbon build up issue for 9 years/unlimited mileage

3. HID is an option

mikez

Carbon build up is covered by Lexus, even for cars out of warranty, no matter the mileage. Plus after its fixed, then you also get a nice warranty on the engine too.

Other than water pump that usually needs replacing before 100k, there are no serious items on the car that really stands out.

jdmSW20

iTrader: (12)

the carbon build up issue was the reason i looked for an 350 instead of a 250 when i was shopping around. the price difference is almost negligible depending on what year you want.

HID were a stand alone option on the early model IS but ive seen literally a handful that didnt have them already

98023IS250

I got rid of my 07 IS250 AWD with 72k. Just did not like the issues with the car. I had the carbon build up taken care of at 40k and already it was coming back. I figured better to get rid of the car while I could get something back on it.

Good luck.

vapid2323

The reason the 350s don't have the same issue because they don't share the same fuel injection system.

sris250

Just a note on the carbon issue to consider on higher mileage motors- The carbon buildup CSPs are being handled on a case-by-case basis and the dealerships' hands are tied- its on corporate. I took mine in twice now. Even though my 07 250 is tossing P300 misfire CSVs its not considered "severe enough" by Lexus to qualify for the CSP.

liquidfuel

That's interesting. I didn't even have any codes when I received the letter about the CSP. I only had the rough idle every once in a while and they covered it without question.

liquidfuel

Want to see rare?

My 2006 IS250 AWD has Nav with Mark Levinson, but no HIDs.

jdmSW20

iTrader: (12)

aw man that sucks lol. but luckily there are so many aftermarket kits out there it really doesnt even matter at this point. but that is definitely a rarity man

codenko

iTrader: (8)

How random? I wonder who gets it equipped like that?

Mine came with navi, but no HID or ML.