2012 Lexus IS350

The 2012 Lexus IS350 is a popular luxury sport sedan known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and sporty handling. It’s powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 2.5-liter V6 engine, and transmissions are either a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the IS350’s smooth and powerful engine, refined interior, and Lexus brand reputation. Common complaints revolve around the somewhat dated infotainment system and limited rear passenger space.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FSE V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the valve cover gaskets and timing cover. Visible oil accumulation around the engine, burning oil smell, and potentially low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and resealing of the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump area, overheating, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and coolant flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A760E 6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration. Can also be accompanied by delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Fluid change, Valve Body Replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Imprecise steering and wandering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the navigation screen. Screen may flicker, display incorrect information, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections, and poor audio quality during phone calls.
  • Solution: Software update.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings. Reduced headlight visibility and potential for damage to the headlight bulbs and wiring.
  • Solution: Resealing or replacement of the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Lubricating sunroof components, realigning tracks, or replacing motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Lexus IS350 is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues such as oil leaks, water pump failures, and electrical problems. While some issues, like headlight condensation, are more cosmetic, others, like transmission problems, can be more costly to repair. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed to identify any existing or potential problems. The severity of the problems can range from minor inconveniences to more serious and expensive repairs.