5 Lexus Models That Are Actually NOT That Reliable

Bucking the Trend

Since the day the brand originally launched, Lexus has garnered a stellar reputation for building some of the most reliable and dependable vehicles on the planet. However, as is the case with its parent, Toyota, there are some exceptions to that rule - including these five Lexus models that aren't quite as reliable as some might think. 

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2007-2009 Lexus RX350

First up, we have the 2007-2009 Lexus RX350, which is known to experience a few problems such as a lag in terms of shifts from the transmission, along with cracking or melting dashboards, and oil leaks, not to mention a problem with the floor mat clips interfering with the accelerator pedal, which prompted a rather large recall spanning 700k models. 

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2007-2012 Lexus IS250

The 2007-2012 Lexus IS250 also marks that model's second generation, but its transition to a direct injection system led to carbon buildup, which can cause misfires and rough idling. Additionally, the IS250 of this era was the subject of many recalls covering issues such as the floor mats interfering with the accelerator pedal, melting dashboards, and discolored rearview mirrors. 

Photos: Lexus

2007-2008 Lexus ES350

The 2008-2008 Lexus ES350 is another model that faced problems with melting dashboards and other interior panels, which were covered by a 10-year extended warranty - trouble is, if the previous owner didn't have those parts replaced, buyers now will be "stuck" with them. Otherwise, this generation of the ES also had recalls pertaining to floor mats and faulty airbags, to boot. 

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2004-2006 Lexus RX330

Much like the RX350 that followed, the 2004-2006 Lexus RX330 had a few teething issues that were largely the same. Those include a bit of a delay in terms of shifts, along with sticky or cracking dashes, oil leaks, low oil pressure, and air conditioning failure. On top of that, Lexus had to recall 700k RX330s after it was discovered that the clips holding the floor mats in place could interfere with the accelerator, to boot.  

Photos: Lexus

Lexus HS250h

Finally, we have Lexus' version of the Toyota Prius - the HS250h - which wound up lasting a mere three model years. During that time, the hybrid model experienced its fair share of problems that spawned a whopping seven recalls - covering issues such as a complete loss of power, suspension woes that can cause the driver to lose control, and faulty brakes, to name just a few.  

Photos: Lexus

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