2004 Lexus IS300

Introduction

The 2004 Lexus IS300 is a compact luxury sports sedan powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine. It comes standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission, with a 6-speed manual transmission available. The IS300 produces 215 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque. It’s praised for its sharp handling, comfortable interior, and stylish exterior, but some owners have reported issues with the following components:

Engine

3.0L V6 with 5-speed Automatic Transmission

• Leaking valve cover gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, causing a burning oil smell and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain tensioner failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner fails, resulting in rattling noises, reduced engine power, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, including slipping gears, hard shifts, and delayed shifts.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn lower control arms
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise, vibration, and poor handling due to worn lower control arms.
  • Solution: Replace the lower control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, resulting in electrical problems such as dim headlights, battery drain, and engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $900
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature rusting on the undercarriage, especially in areas prone to road salt.
  • Solution: Apply rustproofing or have the undercarriage repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticky dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard becomes sticky to the touch due to excessive heat or sunlight exposure.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or apply a protective coating.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2004 Lexus IS300 is a well-regarded vehicle, it has some known issues that owners should be aware of. Common issues include leaking valve cover gaskets, timing chain tensioner failure, shifting problems, and rust on the undercarriage. The severity of these issues varies, with some being more costly to fix than others. Overall, the IS300 remains a reliable and enjoyable car for many owners.