I've searched and found a few threads such as cars pulling to the left or right, a headlight issue, small stuff, maybe a noise at startup..but are there any common problems that would stop someone from buying a 250 or 350 if they knew about the problem beforehand? I'm coming up on graduating from college. I'm narrowing down my choices, I LOVE Lexus for sure. I had a GS300. But I'm hung between maybe an 05 IS300 sport design or IS250 with navigation/HIDs, etc. I want a 350 maybe, but I doubt I could afford one with navigation and HIDs. Plus I doubt I'll be racing around town in it, just normal driving, fun in the backroads maybe.

 

well if your just buying a car for just normal driving i would go with the GS.... but if your into performance and that sporty look i would go for the IS

 

definitely into the sporty look and feel. i hate the feeling of swaying when you hit a hump on the highway. i just keep seeing threads of ppl complaining about the IS. i don't mind rattles, or small noises...but i'm looking for any common mechanical problems that will make it end up in the shop costing me money. I've seen IS250's for in the low 20's certified from Lexus with between 30-40k miles. I hope that 40k miles isn't too much for a new IS lol


http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.js...00&cardist=319

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.js...00&cardist=332

 

There aren't any major issues with the IS apart from excessive brake dust (TSIB fix available) and dash rattles. Nothing else is widespread. It's a pretty solid car if you don't mind the annoying rattles.

350 is definitely worth it. I'm 21 and have had the car for a year and a half. It's a lot more lively than the 250. Also, HIDs are a simple mod (150 bucks) and suspension mods make the car really nice. If not the IS, I'd check out the 09 Audi A4. That car is the ****, although I like my 350 more (and the 335i too).

 

no car is perfect my friend... every car existing have a problem...

 

I think most owners had rattles esp from the dashboard ,, for me its in the winter only
of course this can be fixed under the warranty

 

You can't go wrong with just about any modern Lexus/Toyota product. All have rated very high in Consumer Reports since reports began.

No major problems with the IS other than the little things every car gets. (You win here.)

 

Daily driving the 250 will meat your needs. It has enough pep have fun (well in the 6mt at least). Plus a lot better gas mileage and insurance rates.

If you want to track the car or race then the 350 is the way to go.

 

As mentioned, brake dust (I got the alternate pads under warranty) and a few phantom dash rattles (fixed in one dealer visit) are the ONLY things that have kept this car from being flawless. Lexus/Toyota is pretty bulletproof . There are probably some good deals on used 350s out there, if your willing to look around... Good luck!

 

Go for the "IS," I had my issues covered under the TSIB's and never anymore problems. Search for these....mine were Dash rattle, seat squeak, IPOD noise filter, and brake pads. All were fixed with no issue. You will love the 2gen IS more than the 1gen IMO.