2004 Lexus IS300

The 2004 Lexus IS300 is a popular compact executive car known for its sporty handling, inline-6 engine, and overall reliability. It’s a well-regarded vehicle among enthusiasts, but like any car, it has its share of common issues. While owners appreciate its performance and build quality, some common complaints include aging components and the maintenance associated with a car of this age. The 2004 IS300 came equipped with a 3.0L 2JZ-GE inline-6 engine producing 215 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic.

Engine

3.0L 2JZ-GE Inline-6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell. Visible oil residue around the valve cover.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVTi Gear Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the engine, especially upon startup or at low RPM. Caused by wear in the Variable Valve Timing (VVTi) gear.
  • Solution: Replace the VVTi gear and potentially the VVTi oil control valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination. Poor fuel economy. Rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor (either upstream or downstream).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A650E 5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during acceleration. Slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting. Transmission stuck in a single gear. Check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

W55 5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, clutch pedal sticking, or unusual noises from the clutch area.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and potentially the flywheel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Loose steering. Premature tire wear. Can lead to catastrophic failure and loss of control.
  • Solution: Replace the lower ball joints (both sides recommended).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises from the suspension. Vague steering. Uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per control arm.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the speedometer, tachometer, or other gauges in the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window failing to go up or down, or moving slowly and erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses becoming cloudy or yellowed, reducing headlight brightness.
  • Solution: Polish the headlight lenses or replace the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 for polishing; $200 - $800+ for replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Cup Holder Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The cup holders in the center console are prone to breaking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the center console or repairing the cup holder mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Lexus IS300 is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of some common issues that arise with age. The most significant concerns revolve around potential engine issues like valve cover leaks and VVTi gear rattle, and transmission issues like torque converter failures. Suspension components also wear over time. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with associated costs varying accordingly. Addressing these potential problems proactively can help maintain the car’s performance and reliability.