2008 Lexus IS250
The 2008 Lexus IS250 is a compact luxury sedan known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and sporty styling. It was available with two engine options: a 2.5L V6 producing 204 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque (IS350). The IS250 was offered with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the IS350 came exclusively with the 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the IS250 for its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and Toyota-backed reliability. Common complaints include the relatively low power output of the 2.5L engine and some specific issues with carbon buildup.
Engine
2.5L V6 (4GR-FSE)
- Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
- Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines, like the 2.5L V6, can experience carbon buildup on the intake valves due to the lack of fuel washing the valves. This can lead to rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and loss of power.
- Solution: A walnut blasting service is a common method to remove the carbon deposits. This involves using crushed walnut shells to blast away the carbon.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from the valve cover gaskets as they age. This can result in oil dripping onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell, or simply visible oil around the valve covers.
- Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (A960E)
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift properly. Can also cause the check engine light to illuminate with transmission-related codes.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve body. A transmission flush and fluid change may also be recommended after replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$1500
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The lower control arm bushings can wear out over time, leading to clunking noises when driving over bumps, imprecise steering, and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of the lower control arms or just the bushings. Replacing the entire control arm is often easier, though more expensive.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per side.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Navigation Screen Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen can sometimes fail or develop dead pixels over time. The screen may also flicker or become unresponsive.
- Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain overnight or over a few days, making it difficult to start the car. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty electrical component.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the faulty component causing the draw. This could be anything from a faulty door actuator to a problem with the audio system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can develop cracks, especially in warmer climates.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ for replacement; $50 - $200 for a cover.
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators can fail, causing the doors to not lock or unlock properly, either using the key fob or the interior controls.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2008 Lexus IS250 is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of the potential for carbon buildup in the 2.5L engine. The Valve Body for the transmission can cause transmission issues. Suspension components such as the lower control arm bushings are also prone to wear and tear. Electrical problems, such as navigation screen failure and battery drain, can occur. Interior issues like dashboard cracking are also common. While some of these issues can be costly to repair, many are relatively minor and can be addressed with regular maintenance.