2016 Lexus IS350

The 2016 Lexus IS350 is a popular luxury sport sedan known for its sleek styling, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. The IS350 features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2016 IS include a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (IS200t/IS300) and a detuned version of the 3.5-liter V6 (IS300). The IS350 is generally well-regarded for its reliability and smooth powertrain. However, some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, interior trim, and certain mechanical components. The IS350 is liked because of its reliability and sporty feel. It is not liked because of the small rear seat and infotainment system.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FSE V6

• Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct-injection engines, like the 2GR-FSE, can experience carbon buildup on the intake valves over time, leading to rough idling, decreased performance, and reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Professional cleaning of the intake valves, such as walnut blasting, is typically required to remove the carbon deposits.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, low coolant level.
  • Solution: Replace water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin AWR60E 8-Speed Automatic (RWD Models)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration at low speeds (usually between 20-40 mph). Can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Some owners have reported improvement with a transmission fluid flush using Toyota WS fluid. In more severe cases, torque converter replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush $200-$400, Torque Converter Replacement $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Aisin A760H 6-Speed Automatic (AWD Models)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking, clunking, or rattling noises from the suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Can also lead to vague handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension bushings. Common areas include control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per corner, depending on the bushing location and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot.
  • Solution: Software update, system reset, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update free (if available), Infotainment Unit Replacement $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system is inaccurate, slow, or unable to find routes.
  • Solution: Software update, map update, or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update/Map Update $100 - $300, Navigation Unit Replacement $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard material, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair by an upholstery specialist.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard Replacement $1000 - $2500+, Repair $300-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises emanating from various interior components, such as the dashboard, door panels, or center console.
  • Solution: Identification and securing of the loose components causing the rattles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the location and complexity of the rattle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2016 Lexus IS350 is generally a reliable vehicle. The most significant issues reported are the potential for carbon buildup on the intake valves of the 3.5L V6 engine and the potential for torque converter shudder with the 8-speed automatic transmission in RWD models. Interior issues like dashboard cracking can also be a concern, though these are often cosmetic. Repair costs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like bushing replacements or fluid flushes to more costly repairs such as torque converter or dashboard replacement.