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I doubt you can sidestep this issue simply by switching to premium fuel. From what I understand, the majority of people already use premium fuel because it's mandatory. However, I'm confident there are measures to alleviate it.
I would not gamble buying 250c because we cherish our Lexus cars for their dependability, and this detracts from the enjoyment.
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The convertible top issues are real. I posted a long story on our 2011 IS250C. If there are issues, I would recommend going into the dealer so they can scan and tell you exactly what is wrong. Our issue was a $20 switch, once I had that and replaced it, we have not had issues since. We do seem to have a bit of water in the trunk, I hope to work on that soon, I assume there is some blockage in the paths where water is cleared out.
We really enjoy the car, glad we were able to fix it. In reality, it was just cutting the wires on the old switch and replacing, but I am not sure if there are other switches that would prove more difficult to get to.
I am glad we bought the car, my wife drives it nearly every day.
Melting dash is a significant problem for both models. They fixed it after some years but don’t know which year. Carbon build up was always an issue for 250s because of the design.
unfortunately the melting dash affects ALL model years. My 2013 had the melting dash issue, and when I had it replaced last year (10 year limit), they mentioned that it would most likely reappear in 5-6 years. I believe the ISC ended production in 2014. My plan (with my currently good condition dash and door panels) is to get them both wrapped before they start deteriorating.
Thanks for the TechStream advice....been reading some scary reviews on what is found on ebay....sounds like they are pirated versions and some laced with spyware (at best), ransomware (at worst). I think I'm going to get a cheap laptop and run a Virtual Machine for the software.
On a positive note..after cleaning the main switch at the dash with CRC Electrical cleaner (took the switch out and took it apart, ridiculously simple and ridiculously expensive (there IS a circuit board in there with just 2 contacts)), the top has been going up and down consistently (knock on wood).
UPDATE: well the fix didn't last long. However, a new switch did, in fact, fix it for a longer period than previous fix and, knock on wood, is still working.
Anyone know where I can get another 6 pin connector that looks like this for my 2009 lexus is250c