2010 Lexus LS600h

The 2010 Lexus LS600h is a luxury hybrid sedan, representing Lexus’s flagship model with an emphasis on advanced technology and opulent features. This model exclusively features a 5.0L 2UR-FSE V8 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 438 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque. It is known for its smooth and quiet ride, luxurious interior, and advanced safety features. However, some owners have noted the complex hybrid system can lead to expensive repairs, and the fuel economy, while better than a non-hybrid V8 sedan, is not as impressive as smaller hybrid vehicles. Some also find the infotainment system to be dated compared to newer vehicles.

Electric Motor

• Hybrid Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual decline in hybrid battery performance, reduced fuel economy, error messages on the dashboard related to the hybrid system (e.g., “Check Hybrid System”), and eventually, the inability to start or drive the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Inverter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hybrid system malfunction, vehicle stalling, inability to start, error messages related to the hybrid system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the inverter assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• ECVT Transmission Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, jerky transitions between electric and gasoline power, abnormal noises from the transmission, failure to engage gear, or transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the ECVT. A software update can sometimes resolve minor issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $9,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging or leaning to one side, ride height fluctuations, “Check Air Suspension” warning light, air compressor running constantly or not at all, noisy compressor.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty air struts, air compressor, or height sensors. Leaks in the air lines also need to be addressed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut; $500 - $1,500 for the compressor; $200-$500 for height sensors or air lines.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing or blacking out, inability to input navigation destinations, unresponsive touch screen, issues with Bluetooth connectivity, failure of the audio system.
  • Solution: Software update (if available), replacement of the head unit or navigation ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HID Headlight Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights not working, flickering headlights, uneven headlight brightness.
  • Solution: Replacement of the HID bulbs or the headlight ballast.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ for dashboard replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Seat Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat not moving in one or more directions, clicking noises from the seat motor, failure of the seat heaters or ventilation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat motor, switch, or wiring repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Trunk Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Trunk fails to open or close automatically, beeping during operation, trunk closing unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the trunk actuator motor or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Lexus LS600h, while luxurious and technologically advanced, suffers from some common issues that can be quite expensive to repair. The hybrid battery and ECVT transmission are major concerns, with potential repair costs reaching several thousand dollars. The air suspension and electrical system also have known problems that can add to the overall cost of ownership. While the vehicle offers a smooth and comfortable driving experience, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision. Due to the age of the vehicle, many repairs will be due because of age rather than a design flaw.