2002 Lexus IS300

The 2002 Lexus IS300 is a compact sports sedan offered with a single engine and transmission option: a 3.0-liter V6 producing 215 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The IS300 is known for its sharp handling, responsive steering, and luxurious interior. However, it is not without its share of issues.

Engine

3.0L V6

• Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace piston rings and valve seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Throttle Position Sensor Failure: Sensor malfunctions, causing erratic engine behavior and performance loss.
  • Solution: Replace throttle position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Transmission

5-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping: Transmission fails to engage properly, causing hesitation and slipping during gear changes.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
• Torque Converter Failure: Torque converter malfunctions, leading to loss of power and transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+

Suspension

• Rear Sway Bar Bushing Wear: Worn sway bar bushings result in excessive body roll and instability.
  • Solution: Replace sway bar bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Strut Mount Failure: Worn strut mounts lead to noise, vibration, and loss of handling.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Alternator malfunctions, leaving insufficient power for electrical components and battery charging.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Headlight Switch Failure: Switch malfunctions, causing headlights to fail or flicker.
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure: Actuator malfunctions, causing doors to lock or unlock intermittently or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door

Interior

• Climate Control System Failure: Climate control system malfunction, leading to inconsistent temperature or fan speed.
  • Solution: Repair or replace climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Navigation System Failure: Navigation system freezes or malfunctions, rendering it unusable.
  • Solution: Update or replace navigation system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Recalls:

None Found

Summary:

Overall, the 2002 Lexus IS300 has a range of issues that can vary in severity and cost to fix. Common engine problems include excessive oil consumption and throttle position sensor failure, while transmission issues like slipping and torque converter failure can be costly to repair. Suspension and electrical issues are also common. Interior and exterior problems tend to be less severe and less expensive to fix. It is recommended to have a thorough inspection of any used IS300 to identify potential issues and budget accordingly.