2015 Lexus IS250

The 2015 Lexus IS250 is an entry-level luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, stylish design, and Lexus reliability. It was offered with a 2.5L V6 engine producing 204 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2015 Lexus IS include the IS350, which has a more powerful 3.5L V6 engine, and the IS300h, which is a hybrid model. The IS250 came standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s refined interior and smooth ride, but some dislike its somewhat underpowered engine (the 2.5L), especially when compared to competitors. Common complaints also include the infotainment system’s interface.

Engine

2.5L V6

• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive carbon deposits on the intake valves can lead to rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and reduced performance. This is more common in direct-injection engines like the 2.5L V6.
  • Solution: Professional cleaning of the intake valves using methods like media blasting or chemical cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning oxygen sensors can cause the engine to run rich or lean, leading to poor fuel economy, rough idling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. This can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush), $800 - $1500 (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the front lower control arm bushings can lead to clunking noises, especially over bumps, and diminished handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing or Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation and infotainment system can freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This may require a restart of the system.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the car’s battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This could be caused by a parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the source of the parasitic draw, which may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housings, leading to condensation.
  • Solution: Removal and resealing of the headlight assembly, or replacement of the headlight.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per headlight (resealing), $500+ per headlight (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners in hot climates have reported cracking of the dashboard material, particularly in the center console area.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, which can be a costly repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Lexus IS250, while generally reliable, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The carbon buildup in the engine can be a relatively expensive repair, while the infotainment system glitches can be frustrating. Suspension and electrical issues can also occur, adding to the potential maintenance costs. The severity of these issues varies, but buyers should factor in these potential expenses when considering purchasing a used 2015 Lexus IS250.