2013 Lexus IS350
The 2013 Lexus IS350 is a popular luxury sport sedan known for its blend of performance, reliability, and comfort. It offers a refined driving experience and a well-appointed interior. Along with the IS350, the 2013 Lexus IS lineup also included the IS250, which features a smaller 2.5L V6 engine. The IS350 is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. A common point of praise is its smooth and powerful engine, comfortable ride, and sporty handling. Some common dislikes include the somewhat cramped rear seats and an infotainment system that feels dated compared to newer models.
Engine
3.5L 2GR-FSE V6
- Oil Leak from Timing Cover
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak originating from the timing cover area, often accumulating on the engine block or dripping onto the ground. Low oil level and burning oil smell may also be present.
- Solution: Removal of the timing cover, cleaning the surfaces, and resealing with new gaskets and sealant.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the water pump area, overheating, temperature warning light illuminated, and/or a whining noise from the engine bay.
- Solution: Replacement of the water pump, coolant flush, and inspection of the cooling system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
A760E 6-Speed Automatic
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: A shaking or vibrating sensation, particularly at low speeds or during light acceleration. May be more noticeable when the torque converter is locking up.
- Solution: A software reflash of the Transmission Control Module (TCM) might help in some cases. If that doesn’t work, replacing the torque converter and performing a transmission fluid flush may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (reflash) or $1500 - $3000+ (torque converter replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jarring shifts, especially between certain gears. May be accompanied by a clunking noise.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush may help resolve the issue in some cases. A more serious problem might require valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (fluid flush) or $2000 - $5000+ (valve body/transmission)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Uneven tire wear may also be observed.
- Solution: Replacement of the lower control arm bushings or the entire lower control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
- Strut/Shock Absorber Leakage
- Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leakage from the struts or shocks, bouncy ride quality, and decreased handling performance.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected struts or shocks. Replacing them in pairs (both front or both rear) is recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ per pair
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Navigation System/Infotainment Screen Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen freezing, glitching, or failing to power on. Audio system malfunctions may also occur.
- Solution: Software update, replacement of the navigation system unit, or repair of the screen.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (software update) or $800 - $2000+ (unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oxygen Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated. Possible symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, and/or decreased engine performance.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, which can reduce visibility and potentially damage the headlight components.
- Solution: Removal of the headlight and cleaning the interior. Replacement of the seals may also be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$400 (resealing) or $500 - $1500+ (headlight assembly replacement if damaged)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often near the air vents or in areas exposed to sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or application of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (dashboard cover) or $1500-$3000+ (dashboard replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window not operating smoothly or not operating at all. Unusual noises coming from inside the door panel when attempting to use the power window.
- Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 Lexus IS350 is a generally reliable vehicle. The most commonly reported issues revolve around engine oil leaks, transmission concerns such as torque converter shudder, and suspension wear. Electrical issues like infotainment system malfunctions and oxygen sensor failures also appear, though less frequently. While the engine and transmission problems can be potentially costly, most other issues are relatively manageable. Overall, thorough inspection and proactive maintenance can mitigate the risk of these problems.