Misfit138

Looking to buy an IS F in the near future and want to know anything and everything there is to know about what to look for and what to watch out for ect. What is considered high mileage on these models? Was thinking about the M3 but maintenance costs will be way to much as it will be a daily driver and I've been batting around the idea of a S4 (I live in western Pennsylvania and the AWD is what makes me think about the Audi due to our winter weather) but keep coming back to the IS F.

flowrider

iTrader: (9)

Welcome to the forum. Everything you need to know is here. Learn to use the search function and all your questions should be answered.

Lou

Jwconeil

Welcome. Most newcomers consider this same question. It has been thoroughly discussed. In summary:

we have members with ISFs above 300k and running great with little maintenance. The majority of us only need maintenance on our cars. There are some concerns, such as potential valley plate leak. That’s a 2k repair at the dealer. That’s about the worst case scenario. M3s and Audi’s cost much more to maintain, and are not as reliable. ISFs are rare, so “good deals” are few and far in between. They sell very fast, so if you find one you want, just buy it right away.

Misfit138

Thanks for the welcome and responses guys. Appreciate it! How is the IS F in the snow/wintery weather is another big question of mine. Is it ok with proper winter tires? And I notice more 2008 models for sale above any other. Is there a preferred year or any major differences from year to year and which is most recommended?

flowrider

iTrader: (9)

^^^^Sorry to have to repeat my self. BUT, the questions you asked have been asked before and are discussed in many threads. Just do a search.

Lou

SoulFreak

iTrader: (1)

Hello & welcome. There’s a buyers guide thread on the the top of the page. It covers a lot of the answers you seek. If not, more....If you don’t see it, here’s the link! https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...r-s-guide.html

Misfit138

Looked thru most the articles... have yet to see anything about snow/winter weather driving...

Scott610

iTrader: (3)

^^ I don’t drive mines in the snow at all but rwd sucks in snow but with good snow tires I think you’ll b fine as long as its not a lot of snow . I know theres threads on what years is best and issues but I’ll tell you since I’m here posting anyway . I believe 2011 maybe 2010 and up have better suspension and rear differential which puts down the power better . Common issue are usually valley plate leaking which I’m in process fixing and the water pump but haven’t have a problem with mines cross my finger and mines supercharged . I have a 2011

Jwconeil

ISFs with snow tires are extremely capable. My winter car is an IS350 with all seasons. You will be fine. Just drive patiently.

Misfit138

Are all year IS F's prone to valley plate and water pump issues? And were there any recalls on those issues or in general to check for when checking maintenance history of the vehicle?

BlckGhst

All year ISFs are prone to the valley plate leaking. No recalls on that. My 2011 was fixed at 60k something miles

If the valley plate has been leaking for a while, there will be visible coolant on the transmission under the car