Hi guys-- I recently bought 2012 IS 250 AWD with 56k miles on odo. I put around 1000 miles and my steering feels hard to turn. upon inspection by a mechanic, he has mentioned that right front strut is leaking fluid and strut and mount replacement for both sides is need on front. I don't think a worn strut would affect the steering feel(at least result in hard steering). I do feel there is assist from power steering. whenever i turn the steering while driving it just kicks back to the centre position, excessive force is required to hold the steering at an angle. simply put one hand driving feels exhaustive. I have never driven a Lexus IS before this purchase and my steering feel is much harder compared to other power steering vehicles I have driven. i have also performed wheel alignment as well, still didn't solve the issue.

will replacing struts and mounts solve the steering issue or do I need to look for any other suspension or steering components?
as per your experience are 2nd gen IS 250's designed with stiff steering from the factory?

this Lexus is my first ever vehicle. I am glad about the purchase and so far enjoying it. just looking for answers to clear out my doubts on steering. I attached the pictures of the suspension that the auto repair shop provided. due to covid situation, I was unable to speak to the mechanic. I just have a form describing the issue and the receptionist explained me the diagnosis.

Any comments would be appreciated. Thank you in advance!!
Glad to be part of the CLUB!!

 

These cars have electric power steering system ("EPS" or "EPAS"). These systems use an electric motor instead of a hydraulic system and therefore do not have any power steering fluid to leak. Electric power steering typically require less maintenance and are more fuel efficient, so there's no fluid level to check. When you turn the car on, is there an EPS light on? Your local Autozone scanner won't work for EPS. You will need something a bit more advanced. A shop that has a SnapOn, Verus, Autel or Modis with up to date software, or a Techstream will be able to read the EPS codes. Check if there's TSIB for the steering rack.
I assume your tires are in good shape, inflated to 35 PSI and your battery is still good.
This is what the manual says about heavy steering...

 

I don't have any EPS light on. the tires are inflated and the battery is good as well it's been replaced a couple of months ago. will probably take for an inspection one more time. I guess any of the suspension components might be the culprit.

 

Well, one thing is for certain. That strut should absolutely be replaced. Unfortunately, money was pissed away in the wind doing an alignment with that leaking strut as it'll have to be done again once it's replaced. Depending on mileage, I would replace both of the front struts at the same time. Bad struts can potentially cause hard steering issues. The brand/model/type of the tire can be part of the problem too.

I'd still do as advised above and get them to check if there's any EPS codes when whatever shop you take it to replaces that strut.

These cars aren't known for having heavy steering at stock. Probably a tad bit more compared to other cars on the road, but nothing crazy like a 3 series can be, Lexus simply didn't get crazy with these cars on steering feel. Most people here who want heavier steering have to swap out the EPS module, possibly add a steering damper to the steering wheel, and a few suspension mods to get it to where they want it to be. I did the EPS module from a 2012 IS-F, added the steering damper, and have the F-Sport sway bars on my car.

 

Cleaning the contacts on steering ECU might fix the problem.