2009 Lexus GS450h
2009 Lexus GS450h
Overview
The 2009 Lexus GS450h is a luxury hybrid sedan known for its blend of performance and fuel efficiency. As a Lexus product, it generally upholds the brand’s reputation for reliability. However, like any vehicle, especially a hybrid with complex systems, there are specific areas that have seen more attention from owners and technicians. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for owners and prospective buyers of this model year.
Engine
3.5L V6 Hybrid (2GR-FSE)
Hybrid Battery Degradation
- Symptoms: Reduced electric-only range, decreased overall fuel economy, potential for check hybrid system warning lights.
- Solution: Hybrid battery pack replacement.
- Cost: $3,000 - $6,000
Inverter Cooling Pump Failure
- Symptoms: Overheating of the hybrid system, ‘Check Hybrid System’ warning light, potential loss of hybrid power.
- Solution: Replacement of the inverter cooling pump.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Transmission
ECVT (Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Electrical
Hybrid System Electronics
12V Auxiliary Battery Failure
- Symptoms: Various electrical gremlins, difficulty starting the vehicle, warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the 12V auxiliary battery.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Infotainment System
Navigation System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, incorrect map data.
- Solution: Software update or head unit replacement.
- Cost: $500 - $1,500
Exterior
Body Panels and Lighting
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Cabin Features and Upholstery
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2009 Lexus GS450h is generally a reliable vehicle, benefiting from Lexus’s strong engineering and build quality. The primary concerns revolve around the hybrid system’s components, specifically the hybrid battery pack and inverter cooling pump, which can be costly to repair or replace. The 12V auxiliary battery is also a common replacement item. While the gasoline engine and transmission are robust, potential buyers should be aware of the hybrid-specific maintenance and potential repair costs. Overall, with proper maintenance, the GS450h offers a dependable luxury hybrid experience.