2013 Lexus CT200h
The 2013 Lexus CT 200h is a hybrid hatchback known for its fuel efficiency and Lexus’s reputation for reliability. It only came with one engine option: a 1.8-liter inline-4 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 134 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque. What people tend to like about this car is its great MPG and comfortable ride quality. What people dislike about the car are its subpar acceleration, lack of cargo space, and the infotainment system can feel dated.
Electric Motor
1.8L Inline-4 Hybrid System
- Hybrid Battery Degradation
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced battery capacity leads to shorter all-electric driving range and increased reliance on the gasoline engine. Can trigger error codes related to battery performance. Fuel economy may also decrease.
- Solution: Battery reconditioning (may provide temporary improvement) or replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- CVT Fluid Leakage
- Description/Symptoms: Leakage around the transmission pan gasket or seals. Manifests as fluid drips under the vehicle and potential slipping or jerking during acceleration if fluid levels are low.
- Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal, and refill the CVT fluid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from rear shock absorbers, resulting in a bouncy ride and reduced damping. The vehicle may exhibit excessive body roll during cornering.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers (recommended to replace in pairs).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Inverter Coolant Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Hybrid system malfunction warning light illuminates. Overheating of the inverter which can lead to a shut down of the hybrid system.
- Solution: Replacement of the inverter coolant pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation System/Infotainment Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, or complete failure of the navigation system. May also affect the radio and climate control functions integrated into the infotainment system.
- Solution: Software updates (if available), replacement of the head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $150 for updates, $500 - $2,000+ for head unit replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Cracking Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (very expensive) or use of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Driver or Passenger seat occupancy sensor malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light on the dashboard due to a faulty seat occupancy sensor. The airbag system may not function correctly in a collision.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat occupancy sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Daytime Running Light (DRL) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: One or both of the daytime running lights stop working.
- Solution: Replacement of the DRL bulbs or the entire DRL assembly (depending on the cause).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2013 Lexus CT 200h is generally a reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most significant concern is the potential for hybrid battery degradation, which can be costly to address. Other common issues include rear shock absorber leaks, and some electrical and interior issues. While these problems aren’t universal, knowing about them can help buyers inspect used models more thoroughly and budget accordingly. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to more substantial repairs that can impact the car’s overall reliability and performance.