Hey Club Lexus users……. New Guy here

I currently have my eye on a 2011 IS 350 10k miles on it( it was a loaner for the dealer), or an 2013 IS 250 with 9700k. Aside from the “common issues” mentioned in the “Buyers guide FAQ” like:


- Windshield trim/molding cracking
- Dash rattle
- Check the trunk lip spoiler (if equipped)
- Cam Gear TSIB
- Carbon Build-Up TSIB
- Navigation screen failure
- Gauge needle LEDs dying


What other major and minor, mechanical or cosmetic problems have you guys encountered?

This is where I’m coming from, I have a 2007 Audi A4 2.0T FWD I bought it brand new with 0 miles on the odometer. Currently it has 85k,

So far mechanically I’ve replaced:

-Intake camshaft with timing chain and tensioner
-Cam follower
-Cam positioning sensor
-High pressure fuel pump
-In-tank fuel pump ( that was a *****)
-High and low pressure sensors
-Coolant temp sensor
-aux coolant tank
-Various coolant hoses and flanges
-Motor mounts
-Valve cover gasket and various other gaskets and seals
-I’ve added a “catch can mod” that replaces the PCV valve and helps with oil loss.( Apparently losing or consuming between 1-3 quarts of oil in between service intervals (5k) is NORMAL according to Audi. This engine holds 4.5qts)

Cosmetically I have these problems but haven’t addressed them:

-Glovebox hinge is broken, so you can’t use it unless you hold the door with one hand and reach in with the other to get what you need.
-Center console latch is broken. The center console is storage as well as your arm rest. It can raise it to whatever position you like, or raise it all the way vertically to access one of the cup holders. When you do, all you stuff falls out.
-AM/FM radio does not work, all you get is static. CD/MP3 player does work.


As you can see, I’ve had an Impacted-***-Full of this car……. time to replace it
I’m basically looking for something that will last 10 years 150k or so.


TIA

-Aldo

 

Thats about it and if you have warranty I dont think you need to worry about those things. Lexus is very reliable I have a 09 is350 and its almost 80k miles and no major repair only maintenance. .

 

I'd take the IS 350 with the 10k miles. With Lexus, the cars don't really start to age until after 40k miles. The auto maker's DNA is programmed to withstand aging for some reason.

You'll be amazed with how much extra time and money you'll have sitting around because you didn't have to take your Euro make car to the shop (repeatedly).

The only things to be concerned about are "wear and tear" items that would be addressed with maintenance. Once in a while, you'll see issues such as water pump failure, 02 sensor failure, window regulator failure and a probable exhaust manifold gasket crack. Compared to typical European fixes, these are minor.

 

^Like what was mentioned above, the water pump is another common failure item. Mine was replaced at 26k miles. But perhaps by 2011, the WP manufacturer updates their design/gasket.

Anyhow, I'd also highly recommend the IS350!