I'm about to pick up my IS250 and would like to know if I should buy the ECP. My only reason for buying the ECP is to protect against the carbon build up. But if the problem has been resolved then I will not get it. I plan on keeping he car for about 7 years.

 

ECP? Extended Coverage Plan, I'm assuming?

As for the carbon build up, I've seen if you do the air induction service, Lexus recommends spark plugs at 60k, and use premium only fuel. Keep up with regular maintenance, you should be ok.

 

^^^ I second that.

Also from experience with my 2IS 250, never had a problem. An Audi or BMW turbo 4, I'd get the extended warranty, but definitely not a Lexus as the odds are highly in your favor . Keep the ~$2K.

 

I got the extended warranty till 6 years and I paid invoice price. If you can't get any closer to that price, just keep it at standard warranty. You will be bored of you lexus way before it gives up its duty as a car. :-)

 

If you are concerned about carbon build up, add a bottle of Techron about every 5,000 miles rather than purchase the ECP.

 

802.11b, echoing CTSFox's point on preventing carbon buildup, fuel up at a Top Tier gas station during the ownership of your IS alonsgide the regular maintenance and you'll be fine. Only three retailers offer this in Canada, but thankfully it's the big three anyway: Petro Canada, Shell, and Esso.

http://www.toptiergas.com/index.html