2010 Lexus IS250

The 2010 Lexus IS250 is a compact luxury sedan that offers a blend of sporty handling and Lexus refinement. The primary engine option is the 2.5L V6, which produces 204 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. The IS250 is available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. A less common engine option is the 3.5L V6 that is found in the IS350. Owners often praise the IS250 for its comfortable ride, upscale interior, and reliability. Common complaints include somewhat sluggish acceleration from the 2.5L engine and limited rear seat space.

Engine

2.5L V6

• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves. This can cause rough idling, misfires, reduced power, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Professional cleaning of the intake valves, such as walnut blasting, is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks From Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak may develop at the timing cover. Can smell burning oil as it leaks onto hot exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace timing cover gasket or reseal the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

All Transmissions

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting, harsh shifting, or slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or, in some cases, the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4000+ (depending on severity and repair approach)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear can also occur.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front lower control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on whether just bushings or entire arm is replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may fail to power on, display garbled images, or intermittently shut off.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (depending on new vs. used unit)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections, or poor audio quality during phone calls or music streaming.
  • Solution: Restarting the system can help, or replacing the Bluetooth module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handle may become difficult to operate, requiring excessive force to open the door, or may fail to open the door at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks may develop on the dashboard surface, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ (for replacement) / $50 - $200 (for cover)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2010 Lexus IS250 is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of the potential for carbon buildup on the 2.5L engine, valve body issues in the transmission, and cracking dashboards. The carbon buildup and valve body issues can be moderately expensive to repair, while dashboard cracking is mostly cosmetic but can be costly to fix properly. The front lower control arm bushings are also a common wear item. Overall, addressing these potential issues proactively can help ensure the long-term reliability and enjoyment of the vehicle.