2013 Lexus LS600h

The 2013 Lexus LS600h is a luxury hybrid sedan known for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and ample features. It boasts a 5.0-liter V8 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 438 horsepower. Some owners appreciate its fuel efficiency for a car of its size and its luxurious appointments. Common dislikes include the complex hybrid system leading to potentially expensive repairs and the limited trunk space due to the battery pack.

Electric Motor

5.0L V8 Hybrid with Electric Motor

• Hybrid Battery Degradation/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual decrease in hybrid battery capacity, leading to reduced fuel economy and performance. Eventually, the battery may fail completely, resulting in a warning light and the inability to drive in electric-only mode.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack. Some owners opt for refurbished batteries to save on cost.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Inverter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The inverter converts DC power from the battery to AC power for the motor. Failure can manifest as a loss of power, warning lights, or complete inability to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the inverter assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT)

• Transmission Slippage/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or slippage during acceleration, particularly when the electric motor and engine transition power. Jerky shifts between drive modes.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid change and software update can alleviate the problem. More severe cases may require transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid change) - $7,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can develop leaks or compressor failure. This leads to the vehicle sitting unevenly, a harsh ride, or the suspension warning light illuminating.
  • Solution: Identify and repair leaks in air struts, air lines, or the air compressor. Replacement of faulty components may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per strut/compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may freeze, reboot unexpectedly, or display incorrect information. The infotainment screen can also fail or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, the navigation unit or infotainment screen may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $2,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with various sensors, including oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and crankshaft position sensors can cause a variety of issues including poor engine performance, check engine light, or drivability problems.
  • Solution: Scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) to pinpoint the faulty sensor. Replace the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly. Squeaking or grinding noises during operation.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the sunroof tracks or replacement of the sunroof motor or linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic High Beam Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Automatic High Beam sensor fails to function properly. The high beams do not dim as needed when oncoming traffic is detected or they are disabled for no reason.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Automatic High Beam sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Lexus LS600h is a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, but its complex hybrid system can lead to potentially costly repairs. The most significant concerns revolve around hybrid battery degradation, inverter failure, and air suspension issues. While some electrical and interior issues may arise, they are generally less frequent and less expensive to address than the hybrid-specific problems. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly.