2009 Lexus IS350

The 2009 Lexus IS350 is a popular luxury sport sedan known for its blend of performance, reliability, and comfort. It offers a spirited driving experience, a luxurious interior, and the renowned Lexus build quality. The IS350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter 2GR-FSE V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the 2009 IS include the 2.5-liter 4GR-FSE V6 engine available in the IS250, which delivers 204 horsepower. The 2009 Lexus IS is generally praised for its sleek styling, comfortable ride, and powerful engine (particularly in the IS350). Some common dislikes include a somewhat cramped rear seat and a dated infotainment system compared to newer vehicles.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FSE V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, but the valve cover gaskets are a common culprit. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car or around the engine, a burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail, leading to overheating. Symptoms include rising temperature gauge, coolant leaks, and steam coming from under the hood.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A760E 6-Speed Automatic (paired with 3.5L)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported shuddering, hesitation, or complete failure of the torque converter due to worn internal components, causing vibrations at low speeds and difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear and tear on the lower control arm bushings. Symptoms include clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, and vague steering.
  • Solution: Replace the lower control arms or just the bushings (if possible).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of backlight or complete failure of the navigation/infotainment screen.
  • Solution: Replace the screen or the entire head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the Bluetooth system, inability to pair devices, or dropped calls.
  • Solution: Update the system software, replace the Bluetooth module, or replace the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Condensation buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Remove the headlights and dry them out, reseal the housings, or replace the headlights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $800+ depending on solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or sticky dashboard material, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or install a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 Lexus IS350 is generally a reliable vehicle. The most common issues include oil leaks, water pump failure, suspension component wear (especially lower control arm bushings), and some electrical issues with the navigation screen and Bluetooth. While some issues like dashboard cracking can be cosmetically unappealing, the mechanical issues can be more costly to repair. Overall, with regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues, the 2009 Lexus IS350 can be a dependable vehicle.