Here is the most recent advice on used automobiles from a Toyota/Lexus mechanic, including which used Lexus models are the best to buy and which ones you should avoid.
We had previously learned about the history of Lexus and whether Lexus is simply a rebadged Toyota from a Toyota mechanic. Today, that same mechanicwho has years of experience working on Toyota and Lexus vehiclescomes to us with his recommendations for the best used Lexus models for used car shoppers, as well as his choice of the worst models that should be avoided due to inadvertent engineering and design flaws on occasion.
Having said that, the following is a synopsis of the video’s highlights:
- Top Pick #1: The highly reliable Lexus ES350, which is based on the Avalon.
- Top Pick #2: The Lexus RX350, namely all versions made in 2010 and later as problems with power steering fluid leaks plagued early models.
- Top Pick #3: Lexus IS350very dependable but with somewhat higher maintenance expenses than Top Picks #1 and #2.
- Top Pick #4: Lexus GS350, all models, excluding the hybrid model because it was one of the first hybrids to have some reliability concerns.
- Lexus GX and LX are top picks in the truck category. The LX is a Landcruiser in comparison to the GX, which is effectively a V8 Toyota 4Runner. In his perspective, these two are “investment cars” that you can never go wrong with when purchasing a secondhand one.
- The best products to ever come out of Toyota/Lexus land are the Lexus LS 430 2-door and SC430, which you can anticipate to get an additional 100,000 miles out of compared to other comparable, highly rated Toyotas.
In This Article...
Which year was the best for Lexus?
Here Are The Best Used Lexus Models (2 Models to Avoid)
- The Lexus CT from 2011 to 2017.
- 7 Best: Lexus IS, 20092013.
- 6 Best: Lexus LX 20092017.
- The Lexus GS from 2013 to 2017.
- 4 Best Lexus RX, 2009-2015.
- 3 Best: Lexus ES 20092012.
- 20072011 Lexus LS: The worst.
- 20072011 Lexus HS is the worst.
Which Lexus is the most dependable?
Most Reliable Car: Lexus GX According to a Consumer Reports study, the Lexus GX was rated as the most dependable car on the road for 2022. This roomy luxury SUV can handle off-road conditions, making it a favorite of families and adventurers.
Which Lexus model is the best to purchase?
Ranking of the top and worst Lexus models
- Lexus IS 300, ranking no. 8.
- Seventh-best: Lexus LS XF40.
- Lexus RX Hybrid, ranking no. 6.
- Lexus LC 500, number 5.
- Lexus LS 460, fourth-worst.
- Lexus IS 250, third-worst.
- the Lexus IS 350, according to LexusUSA.com.
- Lexus GS 450h is the worst. Image from Pinterest.
Can Lexus match Toyota’s durability?
Again, it is challenging to get a definitive response because there are so many vehicles between Lexus and Toyotas.
But it’s undeniable that both Lexus and Toyota vehicles have a very long lifespan. According to client testimonials, both the Toyota and Lexus may go up to 300,000 miles between repairs.
In the end, if you have to select between a Toyota and a Lexus, durability is not a factor. But we can tell you that the Lexus ES and Toyota Sequoia are the models most praised for their durability.
Your budget is something to think about while deciding between a Lexus and a Toyota. And perhaps your preference for luxury.
Are Lexus breakdowns frequent?
With a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5, Lexus is ranked 7th among all automobile brands out of 32. This evaluation is based on the average of 345 different models. A Lexus has above average ownership expenses because its average yearly repair cost is $551. The average Lexus owner visits a repair facility 0.5 times annually, and there is an 8% chance that the repair will be significant.
How many kilometers can a Lexus travel?
The normal automobile has a lifespan of 200,000 miles, therefore you may drive a Lexus for 50% longer than the typical vehicle.
This durability may be a significant consideration when choosing a vehicle to buy if you have a lengthy commute or find yourself putting a lot of miles on your car.
What are some typical Lexus issues?
The most frequent faults reported by Lexus owners are oil leaks, melted dashboards and door panels, frequent Check Engine light lighting, PCM storage of specific codes, and airbag-related problems.
The 2009 Lexus RX 350 has received 122 complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) since its release, making it the company’s worst offender overall. The 2011 LS and the 2015 ES are recognized as the second and third most reliable Lexus models ever, respectively, while the Lexus GS consistently experiences few issues throughout all model years.
For a more detailed overview of the most typical Lexus issues in still-for-sale cars, see the chart below.
Do used Lexus cost a much to maintain?
In comparison, maintenance and repairs are affordable because Lexus is Toyota’s premium arm. For its low ownership expenses, Lexus received an overall ranking from RepairPal of sixth. Owners of Lexus automobiles pay $551 on maintenance and repairs annually, while expenses rise as cars get older.
You can choose from a number of options to manage your Lexus maintenance costs. To minimize high maintenance expenses, you might want to consider extending your warranty. Although Lexus has its own program, there are several third-party alternatives available that may be more economical.
The most well-known providers were assessed, and we chose a few that stood out above the others. All of our suggestions for third-party extended auto warranties scored highly in terms of features, plan alternatives, industry reputation, and customer support.
Which automaker has the fewest issues?
The least trustworthy vehicle brands in 2021, as well as the most
- Which Car?
- 1: Lexus – 98.7%
- 2: Dacia – 97.3%
- =3: 97.1% for Hyundai
- Suzuki, 97.1%; =3.
- =5: Mini – 97.0%
- Toyota: 97.0% = 5
- Mitsubishi, 96.9%
Is Lexus more dependable than Mercedes?
Reliability is yet another key consideration when buying a new car. 470,000 automobiles from its members were subjected to thorough analysis by Consumer Reports. Lexus received a score of 75, placing third7 out of 28 brands (including mainstream and luxury brands). Lexus has a big lead over Mercedes-Benz, which received a 43 and was rated 20th in reliability.
Which automobile has ever been the most dependable?
Even while Honda’s current sales may not be comparable to those of Toyota or Volkswagen, it is still one of the top producers of cars and motorcycles worldwide. It is well-known throughout the world for producing some relatively reliable and durable vehicles, such as the Honda Civic.
The Honda Civic is a reliable, no-frills little car that is adored all over the world. What appeals to Civic owners the most about their car? It requires incredibly little upkeep. Civic owners only bring their cars in for repairs on average 0.2 times each year, according to Motor Biscuit. Comparatively, a tiny car’s average fuel economy is 0.3.
In addition, the Civic has long been renowned for its great fuel efficiency. The Civic had a fuel efficiency of roughly 32 miles per gallon, or 3.1 gallons per 100 miles, in the early 1990s.
Are used Lexus vehicles dependable?
The luxury sister firm of Toyota, Lexus, enjoys the same stellar reputation as Toyota. Like Toyota, Lexus produces some of the most dependable vehicles on the market, but with a more opulent aesthetic.
Which Lexus offers the best fuel economy?
The 2019 Lexus ES Hybrid, which gives up to 44 highway mpg, is the second-best-rated vehicle in the current Lexus lineup behind the 2022 Lexus NX Plug-In Hybrid.
Which issues does the Lexus RX 350 have?
Lexus RX 350 Typical Issues There have been few complaints about the older Lexus RX 350 generation, which was produced from 2007 to 2009. However, some owners have mentioned that the dashboard is vulnerable to cracking in hotter temperatures, and others have griped about leaks developing in the power steering rack and engine oil cooler pipe.
What does a Lexus consider to be high mileage?
High mileage is a Lexus IS with 150,000 kilometers. Although it may provide service for many more years, it will probably contain a number of parts that are close to the end of their useful lives, increasing the likelihood of significant component failure.
It is important to conduct a thorough evaluation of the car before making any decisions. You should also bear in mind that some Lexus parts won’t be as inexpensive as Toyota parts.
Purchasing a Lexus IS with more than 150,000 kilometers on it won’t always result in a bad consequence.
One with 100,000 miles that has had many owners and has led a tough life or was once a rental car may be preferable than a well-kept IS with 150,000 miles.
Think about the following things before purchasing a used Lexus IS:
- history of maintenance. Verify if the owner can offer documentation proving the car received sufficient maintenance.
- Obtain a second viewpoint. Take it to a reputable independent auto repair shop or have a trusted mechanic examine it.
- Look it up on CarFax. Although nothing is certain, it will give a clearer picture of wear and tear. If there is any damage, make sure it is minor. Examine the data to confirm whether anything occurred that was related to the engine or transmission.
- the quantity of prior owners. Less is generally preferable. Typically, more owners result in higher wear and tear. If only one family had owned it, they almost certainly took good care of it throughout their ownership if they covered the entire miles and had the car maintained.
- how long you intend to keep the vehicle. If you intend to retain the automobile for a long time, you should compare the short-term savings against paying a little more for a more dependable vehicle.
- Skip the modified cars. There are several modified IS models with aftermarket parts because of its appeal to auto enthusiasts. Modified vehicles have probably experienced more abuse, which naturally reduces the component lifespan.
Which is preferable, a Lexus or a Toyota?
In the U.S. News Battle of the Brands comparison, Lexus defeated Toyota in five of the 13 categories performance, interior, safety, subcompact SUV, and midsize SUV outperforming Toyota in all 13 categories. In the 44-inch midsize SUV class, the two brands were tied.
Although Lexus only triumphed in less than half of the categories, U.S. News nonetheless named it the superior vehicle overall. This is largely attributable to how well the high-end brand performed in the crucial areas of safety and performance. In the latter, Lexus cars typically outperform even the most sporty Toyota models in terms of handling.
Toyota is surpassed by Lexus in terms of interior design as well. While both companies have generally appealing interiors, Lexus cars consistently come with premium materials, cozy seats, and a more opulent vibe.
The Lexus brand is known for its emphasis on luxury, comfort, and overall performance. If you have a higher income and desire a car that provides a pleasant driving experience without compromising performance, upgrading can be worthwhile. If you’re looking for a sports vehicle or an SUV, the upgrade is especially valuable because Lexus consistently obtains top ratings in these categories.
Is a Lexus only an upscale Toyota?
Is Lexus a Toyota brand? Yes, the Toyota Motor Corporation, which has its headquarters in Japan, is the owner of the Lexus brand. However, the luxury car line runs separately from Toyota Motor Corporation in many aspects.