IS - 2nd Gen (2006-2013) Discussion about the 2006+ model IS models

2,500 mile trip. Would you be comfortable taking your IS?

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Old 05-27-15, 07:03 AM
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NikonGuy
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Default 2,500 mile trip. Would you be comfortable taking your IS?

2008 IS 250 with 87K miles. Planning to take a long road trip this summer from CO to NC and back.

Have had the car for a year and absolutely no issues. Starts every time, no over heating, etc.

I change oil every 7,500 miles and plan to change it right before the trip next month. Coolant is original and plan to change it at 100K.

I know things can always creep up but would you be comfortable driving your IS cross country?
Old 05-27-15, 07:26 AM
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redspencer
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I would be comfortable driving my IS cross country. Lexus and Toyota vehicles are pretty much as reliable as they come.

In addition to what you had mentioned with the fluid checks/changes, I personally would check the following since my biggest concerns for such a long trip would be possible issues with the fluids (oil and/or coolant), electrical problems (battery and/or alternator), and tire blowouts.

1) The current health of the battery (voltage level and clean any corrosion on battery terminals)

2) Ensure that all four tires are in good condition, properly inflated, and with a sufficient mount of tread left.

3) Verify the spare tire is inflated properly.

4) If your water pump has pink crust showing, you may want to resolve that prior to the cross-country trip.

5) Last but not least, verify that your blinker fluid level is good...

Last edited by redspencer; 05-27-15 at 07:30 AM.
Old 05-27-15, 07:27 AM
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ISPearl08
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My IS350 is an 08 with 116k and I still would take it cross country with full confidence. The car is just so solid.
Old 05-27-15, 07:59 AM
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MWIS350
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I would IS250 is smooth and comfortable.
Old 05-27-15, 08:25 AM
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pattatted4
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Not only would I take it...I would take the scenic route!!! Lots to see from sea to shining sea!!!
Old 05-27-15, 09:42 AM
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pheonix72
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Mechanically? Then YES, i dont see any issue with the car making this long trip.
It is actually a comfortable car for the driver and front passenger. The rears will be somewhat cramped. My only complaint is the driver seat; my left leg gets a bit tired and numb on long trip (maybe just me getting old
Old 05-27-15, 09:53 AM
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IS-SV
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Giving good tires and battery, plus up-to-date maintenance, I would be confident in using my 07 IS350 w/51K miles for a trip of that length. Although drivers seat comfort/support is not impressive for longer trips.

Realistically for a trip of that length, I just get a 4 cylinder engine rental car with unlimited mileage and beat on it. The Lexus stays in the garage in this case.
Old 05-27-15, 12:53 PM
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Gville350
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I agree that the mechanical aspect would be something I'd not worry about; I'd be more focused on the seat-comfort on my rear. Just seems like on longer trips that it's just as comfortable as past cars I've driven cross country.
Old 05-27-15, 04:16 PM
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minato
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I wouldnt worry a bit about it
I have done Toronto - pennyslvania - Maryland - NY - Montreal - Toronto
Im actually planning on Montreal - Texas - California this summer

I have an 08 also but AWD
as long as you have your maintenance up to date you will be fine .
and yea as redspencer said , check your tires and washer fluid
Old 05-27-15, 05:27 PM
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MWIS350
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Taking wife Is250 for road trip in couple month 900 miles. But will change spark plug first car had 106k.
Old 05-27-15, 05:31 PM
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tomiv9
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In 2003 I took my 1992 accord with 200k miles on a similar trip with no issues. You'll be fine.
Old 05-27-15, 05:31 PM
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Nelly
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Drove my 250 from San Francisco all the way up to BC, Canada. About 2,000~ mile round-trip. Comfortable and reliable
Old 05-27-15, 05:33 PM
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IS-SV
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Originally Posted by InspireME
Drove my 250 from San Francisco all the way up to BC, Canada. About 2,000~ mile round-trip. Comfortable and reliable
Nice trip. How was the fuel economy/MPG?
Old 05-27-15, 07:04 PM
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hirsch2is
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I'm doing arizona to minnesota and back this summer which will include a 300-400 round trip from the south suburbs of minneapolis up north to alexandria. should be a total of 4k-5k miles. i have a 2008 with 76k. I'm a toyota mechanic and i have absolutely no worry even without knowing how the previous owners treated this car. to be honest id take a 99 camry cross country without worry. toyota lexus are so solid
Old 05-27-15, 08:04 PM
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Sffd103
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You'll be fine. Bring snacks!


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