2012 Lexus LS460

The 2012 Lexus LS460 is a full-size luxury sedan known for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and opulent features. It’s powered by a 4.6L V8 engine producing 386 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque in RWD configuration, or 360 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque in AWD configuration, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The LS460 is available in both standard and long wheelbase versions (LS460L). Owners appreciate the car’s reliability, comfort, and luxurious interior. Some criticisms include its somewhat dated technology compared to competitors and a less engaging driving experience focused more on comfort than performance.

Engine

4.6L V8 (1UR-FSE)

• Oil Leak from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto the exhaust manifolds causing a burning smell and potentially visible smoke. Oil drips can also be seen on the engine block.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks from the front of the engine.
  • Solution: Water pump replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery warning light, dimming headlights, difficulty starting, or stalling.
  • Solution: Alternator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A760E 8-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement. In severe cases, the transmission may get stuck in a single gear.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. Some have had success with valve body cleaning and new solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sag on one or more corners, ride height may be uneven, “Air Suspension” warning light. The air compressor may run excessively.
  • Solution: Replacement of air struts, air compressor, or air lines depending on the failed component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ per strut; Compressor replacement $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced handling precision.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn control arm bushings or complete control arm assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may flicker, dim, become unresponsive, or fail completely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit or potentially repair of the screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mark Levinson Amplifier Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: No sound from speakers, distorted sound, or intermittent audio issues.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the amplifier.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Parking Assist Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking assist system not functioning, beeping even when there are no obstructions, or false alarms.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty parking assist sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Trunk Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Trunk fails to latch shut automatically or trunk won’t open automatically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the trunk latch actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, or application of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ for replacement; $50 - $200+ for a cover.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Lexus LS460 is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues such as oil leaks, water pump failures, valve body problems, and air suspension issues (if equipped). Electrical problems like navigation screen failures and amplifier problems can also occur. While some repairs, like valve body and air suspension issues, can be quite expensive, many other repairs fall into a more moderate price range. The most severe of the issues are the dashboard cracking, alternator failure, air suspension issues, water pump failure, and valve body issues, as these are the most expensive to repair.