Lexus IS: Car Value

This article applies to the Lexus IS (2005-2013).

Since hitting the US market for the first time in 1989, Lexus rapidly built and maintained a reputation for reliability and style. As Toyota's luxury brand, Lexus appeals to buyers seeking a well-rounded car that won't break the bank. You'll pay more for a Lexus upfront than you would for a Toyota, but the investment is worth it. In fact, Lexus comes in at a respectable number 73 on Forbes' "World's Most Valuable Brands" list, which includes categories from cars to electronics, and even to sportswear. Lexus trails just a handful of automakers on the list.

Newer car values

As with any other machine, the overall condition of the car and any available features can influence the price. While older cars with dings and dents lose value along the way, there is a price difference among newer cars as well. For example, base models almost always cost less than their better-equipped counterparts. However, a slightly older model with a higher trim level can be a bit cheaper than the latest base model. Keep in mind that extras such as alarm systems, wheel locks, and other upgrades can easily increase the car's overall price.

Let's take a closer look at some of the newest Lexus IS sedans and their overall values.

As expected, price tags on newer IS sedans are quite high. If you'd rather buy an older IS, however, you can save a bit of cash.

How does the Lexus IS hold up over time?

You can get a dependable car while saving thousands of dollars upfront. With its standout reliability and generally low maintenance costs, the IS is a great bet. Knowing how much older cars cost, and how they stack up against competitors, is crucial for getting the right car -- and the best deal. Here's what you might expect to pay for a used Lexus IS. We'll also take a look at how the car stacks up against the competition. The chart below provides average prices for base models purchased from a dealership in good condition (or better) with expected mileage for the age.

There's no doubt that the Lexus IS holds up well over time. Whether you opt for the lowest tier 250 or the sportier F, you can expect the car to retain its value for years to come. A look at close competitors gives you a better idea of how the car tends to stack up among competitors a few years down the road.

Common Questions

Can I buy a car that's been in an accident?

Few things can burst your bubble faster than finding out the car you've been eyeing has been in an accident. If you find yourself in this situation, don't panic or immediately write off the car. A closer inspection through a trusted site, such as CARFAX, can tell you whether it was a minor fender bender or something more substantial. If it appears that the car was heavily damaged or hastily fixed after the crash, though, you might want to consider a different vehicle.

Are certified pre-owned cars worth it?

Certified pre-owned cars are often no more than five years old, with a general mileage range from 50,000 to 80,000 miles. As opposed to an average used car, CPO vehicles go through rigorous inspection to verify their roadworthiness. There is a catch, however -- this service is only worth the extra cost if the CPO vehicle is certified by the automaker.

The best resource for finding out what the car you're involved with is worth is Kelly Blue Book. Simply and for free, go on the website and plug in all the detailed information. This will give you a detailed estimate of the lowest price, the average, and the high value. It will even go as far as explaining what condition makes the car fall under what category.

There are a few common issues that you should watch out for when purchasing a used Lexus IS.

Always check the windshield trim molding for any cracks. This could cause unwanted noise, not to mention water leak. Push on the dashboard to see if it moves a little, and when test driving the vehicle, pay attention to any rattle noise. Play with the navigation screen, because they have been known to fail every now and then. Take a glance at the gauge's LED needle, because it has been reported to die.

Be aware that the more mileage the car carries, the more issues approach. Since the Lexus is very reliable, you cna afford to buy one with over 150,000, however, it is crucially important that the car was maintained. With this in mind, always ask for service records. Some times the owner won't have the records, but can get it from the dealership if they were doing the services for him. Use your best judgement and maybe a mechanic's judgement along with it.

Related Discussions and Articles

• Buyer's Guide - Clublexus.com
• Should you buy a car that's been in an accident? - Autotrader.com
• IS F values down the road? - Clublexus.com
• Price paid for a IS250/350? - Clublexus.com
• Are certified pre-owned cars worth the premium price? - Moneyunder30.com