2017 Lexus GS450h

Introduction

The 2017 Lexus GS450h is a midsize luxury sedan powered by a 3.5L V6 engine paired with an electric motor for a combined 338 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. The GS450h comes standard with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It is praised for its quiet and comfortable ride, as well as its fuel efficiency. However, it has been criticized for its lack of performance and driving dynamics.

Engine

• 3.5L V6 Hybrid
  • Oil leaks at the valve covers: Oil may leak from the valve covers due to faulty gaskets. Symptoms include low oil levels, visible oil leaks, and the smell of burning oil. The solution is to replace the valve cover gaskets. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket may fail, leading to vacuum leaks and engine performance problems. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, and illuminated check engine light. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $600 - $1,200
• Exhaust manifold cracking: The exhaust manifold may crack over time, causing exhaust leaks. Symptoms include a loud exhaust sound and reduced engine power. The solution is to replace the exhaust manifold. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000

Transmission

• Eight-speed automatic
  • Transmission shudder: The transmission may shudder during shifts, especially when accelerating or under load. Symptoms include a noticeable vibration in the vehicle. The solution is to reprogram the transmission control module or replace the transmission fluid. Estimated cost to fix: $0 - $500 if a software update is successful; upwards of $2,000+ for fluid replacement or transmission repair

Suspension

• Strut mount bearing failure: The strut mount bearings may fail, causing noise and vibrations. Symptoms include clunking or knocking sounds when turning or driving over bumps. The solution is to replace the strut mount bearings. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $800
• Rear shock absorbers leaking: The rear shock absorbers may leak, causing poor ride quality and handling. Symptoms include excessive bouncing and swaying of the vehicle. The solution is to replace the shock absorbers. Estimated cost to fix: $600 - $1,200
• Front lower control arm bushings worn: The front lower control arm bushings may wear out over time, causing noise and vibrations. Symptoms include clunking or knocking sounds when turning or driving over bumps. The solution is to replace the control arm bushings. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator may fail, leading to electrical problems. Symptoms include a dim or flickering dashboard, difficulty starting the vehicle, and illuminated warning lights. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $800 - $1,500
• Battery drain: The battery may drain prematurely due to parasitic electrical draws. Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle and a dead battery after extended periods of parking. The solution is to pinpoint the source of the parasitic draw and repair or replace faulty components. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Sunroof wind noise: Some models may experience excessive wind noise from the sunroof at higher speeds. The solution is to adjust or replace the sunroof seals. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500
• Headlight condensation: The headlights may experience condensation buildup, which can affect visibility. The solution is to seal or replace the headlight assemblies. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500

Interior

• Navigation system glitches: The navigation system may experience glitches or freezing. Symptoms include incorrect or delayed directions, and failure to respond to inputs. The solution is to update or replace the navigation software. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $400
• Climate control issues: The climate control system may malfunction, leading to inconsistent temperatures or failure to circulate air. Symptoms include uneven heating or cooling, and poor airflow. The solution is to diagnose and repair the faulty components. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $1,000+

Summary

The 2017 Lexus GS450h has some known issues, including oil leaks, intake manifold gasket failure, exhaust manifold cracking, transmission shudder, suspension noise and vibrations, electrical problems, sunroof wind noise, headlight condensation, navigation system glitches, and climate control issues. The severity of these issues can vary, and some may be covered under warranty. The estimated cost to fix these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the repairs.