Zaks

My wife's looking for a new car and we both like the IS250. Not bad on gas, good looking, pretty luxurious and I'm hoping it's a Toyota so it's fairly reliable. So far I've done a few hours of research and from what I've seen it's fairly reliable except for the carbon buildup and maybe a failed pump here or there. I come from a BMW background and if it's anywhere as reliable (or unreliable ) as a 95-2005 BMW 3 series, it's fine with me.

Just wanted to get some info first hand from owners here, such as what exactly does the carbon buildup entail? How often does it need to be fixed, how expensive is the fix, is it DIY, etc.?

Also wondering if there's any significant difference in an 06 vs 07-08? I'm worried mainly about the 1st year gremlins that are usually on most cars, rather than better/worse features that changed from 1st to 2nd year.

Lastly, how expensive is the maintenance on items like the cooling system, suspension and electronics? Is there a lot of DIY information out there or is it mainly dealer/mechanic work? I don't have the $ to take it to a mechanic all the time, definitely not the expensive dealer, but I do have a lot of DIY experience and can handle most things with little instruction.

Thanks in advance!

Ivan

(I post a lot from the DI account on the detailing section, but this is my personal and hopefully I'll pick up that IS to be able to check the forums on personal time a lot as well!)

zmcgovern4

iTrader: (2)

Hey Ivan,

You can find a lot of info by using the search function in the forum...

HERE are the search results for threads with "carbon" in the title.. plenty of info on carbon buildup.

HERE are the search results for "water pump" which is a fairly common replacement item.

HERE are the search results for "maintenance".

You get the idea

-Zach

Zaks

Of all the members you're the one who has to give me the "search you dumbass" response huh?!

I honestly would but I posted this because I'm busy all day and she's without a car, so wanted to get as much info asap to make a decision.

Thanks buddy,
Ivan

zmcgovern4

iTrader: (2)

Lol I posted links to all the threads you need, my friend. That should help you out

These threads usually just get no answers otherwise because there are so many of them.

Sffd103

iTrader: (16)

Welcome to CL. Overall it's an awesome car. Typical maintenance is air filter, cabin filter, oil changes, brake fluid change (60K), spark plugs (60K) can be done diy if you have the full day, brakes/rotors, tires (some inner tire wear is normal), coolant (100K). That's all I can think of quickly. Many you can do yourself. Here's a link with good info.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...iy-thread.html