2007 Lexus IS250

The 2007 Lexus IS250 is a compact luxury sedan known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and sporty handling. The IS250 comes with a 2.5-liter V6 engine producing 204 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically praise its build quality, smooth ride, and Lexus brand reputation. Some common complaints include limited rear seat space, the relatively low power output of the IS250 engine, and some reported issues with carbon buildup.

Engine

2.5L V6

• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased fuel economy, misfires, and a noticeable loss of power. This is more prevalent on earlier model years.
  • Solution: A thorough cleaning of the intake valves is required. This can be achieved by walnut blasting or using chemical cleaners. Installing an oil catch can may help to mitigate future buildup.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, decreased fuel economy, rough idle, and potential catalytic converter damage.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush, and possibly replacing the torque converter if the flush does not resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (fluid flush), $800 - $1500+ (torque converter replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Decreased steering precision.
  • Solution: Replace the worn lower control arm bushings or the entire lower control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen stops working, freezes, or displays incorrect information. This is less common but reported.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Remove the headlights and dry them out. Reseal the headlight housing. Replacing the headlight housing if the seal is damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard (expensive) or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (dashboard cover) - $1500+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Lexus IS250 is generally a reliable vehicle, but it’s not without its issues. The most significant concern is the carbon buildup on the intake valves of the 2.5L V6 engine, which can lead to performance issues and costly repairs. Suspension bushing wear and torque converter shudder are other areas to be aware of. While the dashboard cracking is a cosmetic issue, it is a common complaint. Overall, while the IS250 does have some potential issues, these are not typically as severe or widespread as some other vehicles. Careful inspection and maintenance can help prevent or mitigate these problems.