2017 Lexus IS200t

The 2017 Lexus IS200t is a luxury sport sedan known for its comfortable ride, sleek styling, and reliability. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While the IS200t was the entry-level engine option for the IS line, higher trims such as the IS300 were offered with a 3.5L V6 engine, and the IS350, a higher output of the same 3.5L V6. Owners generally appreciate the IS200t’s fuel efficiency, smooth ride, and Lexus’s reputation for dependability. However, some criticisms include the relatively small rear seats, the somewhat dated infotainment system, and the less engaging driving experience compared to some of its rivals.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (IS200t)

• Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines like the 2.0L turbo can suffer from carbon buildup on the intake valves because there is no fuel being sprayed onto the valves to clean them. This can cause rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and reduced performance.
  • Solution: A walnut blasting service or chemical cleaning to remove the carbon buildup.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and a possible check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (AWR80)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears, can occur.
  • Solution: Flushing the transmission fluid, reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM), or replacing the valve body. In some severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Can also cause vague steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arm bushings or the entire lower control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or randomly restarts. Bluetooth connectivity issues may also be present.
  • Solution: Software update of the infotainment system or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update if available) - $1500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery drains quickly, especially when parked for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Thoroughly test the charging system, parasitic draw test to locate source of the drain, replace the battery, or repair the faulty electrical component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates. This is purely cosmetic.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement, dashboard cover, or professional repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2017 Lexus IS200t is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues such as carbon buildup in the engine, rough shifting in the transmission, and electrical problems. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to more costly repairs. The estimated cost to fix the issues can vary widely depending on the specific problem and the repair method chosen, but some repairs can be costly. Overall, the IS200t is a good choice for buyers looking for a dependable luxury sport sedan, but it’s important to be aware of these potential issues before making a purchase.