2012 Lexus LS460
2012 Lexus LS460
Overview
The 2012 Lexus LS460 is a luxury sedan renowned for its exceptional build quality and long-term reliability, a hallmark of the Lexus brand. This generation of the LS460 continues to impress with a robust powertrain and a well-engineered chassis. While generally very dependable, like any vehicle, some specific areas have seen occasional reports. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for owners and prospective buyers. The LS460’s reputation for durability is largely upheld, with most owners experiencing a trouble-free ownership experience.
Engine
4.6L V8
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
Air Suspension Leaks/Compressor Failure
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, ‘air suspension system fault’ warning light, compressor running excessively.
- Solution: Repair or replace leaking air springs, struts, or the air compressor. Regular inspection of air lines is recommended.
- Cost: $500 - $2500
Standard Suspension
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
Navigation System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, inaccurate GPS.
- Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $300 - $1500
Battery Drain
Intermittent Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a short period, electrical components malfunctioning intermittently.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify parasitic draw from modules or accessories, followed by repair or replacement of faulty components.
- Cost: $200 - $800
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Leather Upholstery
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Climate Control System
Actuator Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Air not directing to correct vents, unusual noises from dashboard when changing temperature or fan speed.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty HVAC blend door actuators.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Summary Verdict
The 2012 Lexus LS460 stands out as a highly reliable luxury sedan. The powertrain, consisting of the 4.6L V8 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, is exceptionally robust with no widespread issues reported. The primary areas where owners might encounter costs are related to the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, particularly air suspension leaks or compressor failures, and occasional glitches with the infotainment system or intermittent battery drain. Interior components and exterior body panels generally hold up very well. Overall, the LS460 offers a dependable ownership experience, with most potential issues being manageable and not indicative of systemic flaws.