2002 Lexus IS300

The 2002 Lexus IS300 is a sporty sedan known for its inline-six engine, rear-wheel drive, and overall reliability. It was available with only one engine option: a 3.0-liter 2JZ-GE inline-six engine producing 215 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque. It came standard with a five-speed automatic transmission, but a five-speed manual was offered starting in 2002. People appreciate the IS300 for its responsive handling, smooth engine, and comfortable interior. Common complaints revolve around its somewhat dated styling, fuel economy (relative to newer cars), and the age-related issues that come with owning a 20+ year old car.

Engine

2JZ-GE 3.0L Inline-Six

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover, leading to a burning smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• VVTi Gear Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise coming from the front of the engine, especially at idle or low RPMs. This is often caused by wear in the Variable Valve Timing Intelligence (VVTi) system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VVTi gear/camshaft. This is often a temporary fix and the problem may return over time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminates, poor fuel economy, rough idle. Diagnosed with an OBDII scanner.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor (either upstream or downstream).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Transmission

A650E 5-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delays or harshness during gear changes, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear. Often caused by degraded transmission fluid or worn solenoids.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, solenoid replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush), $500 - $1000+ (solenoids), $2500+ (rebuild)
• Transmission Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, clunking noises during acceleration and deceleration, especially when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

W55 5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints and Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Reduced steering precision.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints (upper and lower) and suspension bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• Leaking Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, visible oil leakage from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues (Dimming/Failing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or completely non-functional instrument cluster. Common issue related to capacitors failing on the circuit board.
  • Solution: Reflowing solder joints on the instrument cluster circuit board. May require sending the cluster to a repair specialist.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not functioning properly, making grinding noises, or failing to move up or down.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Exterior

• Fog Light Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the fog light lenses, often due to impacts or exposure to the elements.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fog lights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Interior

• Center Console Storage Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The latch on the center console storage compartment breaks, preventing it from closing properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the latch or the entire center console lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard, often due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+

Recalls:

• 99V340000: Recall for possible cracks in fuel tank filler pipe.
• 00V085000: Recall for possible fuel leakage in the event of a rear-end collision.
• 01V115000: Recall for possible cracks in the fuel tank.
• 01V207000: Recall for possible fuel leakage in the event of a side impact collision.
• 03V069000: Recall for possible loss of power steering assist.
• 04V584000: Recall for possible excessive force required to operate the brake pedal.

Summary:

The 2002 Lexus IS300, while generally reliable, does have some common issues that owners should be aware of, especially given its age. Engine issues mainly involve oil leaks and VVTi system wear. The automatic transmission can experience shifting problems and mount failures. Suspension issues are typical for a car of this age, with worn ball joints and bushings being common. Electrical gremlins, such as instrument cluster and window regulator problems, can also occur. Interior and exterior issues are mainly cosmetic. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. Addressing these problems proactively can help maintain the IS300’s performance and longevity.