2014 Lexus IS350

The 2014 Lexus IS350 is a popular luxury sedan known for its sporty handling, comfortable interior, and Lexus reliability. The IS350 came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission in the RWD configuration and a 6-speed automatic transmission in the AWD configuration. The IS250 was also offered with a 2.5-liter V6, along with the IS300h hybrid drivetrain. Owners often praise the IS350 for its engaging driving experience and smooth powertrain, but some common complaints include a somewhat cramped rear seat and the infotainment system’s interface. This guide aims to cover the common issues and complaints reported for the 2014 Lexus IS350 to help potential buyers make an informed decision.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FSE V6

• Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves (Direct Injection)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and reduced performance can occur due to carbon buildup. This is a common issue with direct-injection engines.
  • Solution: Performing an intake valve cleaning service, such as walnut blasting, can remove the carbon buildup.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and a whining noise from the engine bay may indicate a failing water pump.
  • Solution: Replacing the water pump with a new one, along with coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leak from Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak on the front of the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

A760E (6-Speed Automatic - AWD)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially when cold, can occur due to valve body wear or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush, filter replacement, and potentially valve body replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

AA80E (8-Speed Automatic - RWD)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially when cold, can occur due to valve body wear or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush, filter replacement, and potentially valve body replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear

  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, can indicate worn control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, or strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per corner
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues

  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, and glitches in the navigation or infotainment system are sometimes reported.
  • Solution: Software updates or, in some cases, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

• Battery Drain

  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight or over a few days of non-use, leading to starting problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing parasitic drain issues. Common culprits include aftermarket accessories, faulty relays, or a failing alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

• Backup Camera Malfunction

  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera displays a distorted image, a black screen, or fails to activate.
  • Solution: Replacing the camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation

  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings can lead to reduced visibility and potential damage to the headlight components.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight assembly, drying out the moisture, and resealing the housing. In severe cases, headlight replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking

  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks can appear on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Lexus IS350 is generally reliable, but owners should be aware of potential issues such as carbon buildup, water pump failure, and rough shifting in the transmission. Electrical and suspension issues can also occur, but are not as common. While the cost to fix these issues can vary, addressing them promptly can prevent further damage and maintain the vehicle’s performance and reliability.