2018 Lexus IS350

The 2018 Lexus IS350 is a popular luxury sport sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and reliable performance. The IS350 is equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission in rear-wheel drive models or a 6-speed automatic in all-wheel drive models. Some owners appreciate the vehicle’s smooth and quiet ride, upscale cabin, and reputation for dependability. Common complaints include the infotainment system, which can feel dated, and the somewhat cramped rear seating. Other engine options for the 2018 IS include the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder in the IS300 and a lower-output version of the 3.5L V6 in the IS300 AWD.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FKS V6

• Carbon Buildup on Valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Direct injection engines like the 2GR-FKS can experience carbon buildup on the intake valves, leading to rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and reduced performance.
  • Solution: A professional intake valve cleaning service, often involving walnut blasting, can remove the carbon deposits.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin AA80E 8-Speed Automatic (RWD)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, especially when the transmission is cold. This can sometimes be accompanied by clunking noises.
  • Solution: Start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. A transmission fluid flush using the correct Lexus-specified fluid (Toyota WS) may help. In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) might be required. If the problem persists, more extensive repairs to the transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $300+ (software update), $1000+ for internal repairs
  • Recalls: None Found

Aisin A760H 6-Speed Automatic (AWD)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of the lower control arm bushings, leading to clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can also affect the vehicle’s handling and alignment.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arm bushings or the entire lower control arm assembly is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can sometimes freeze, become unresponsive, or exhibit noticeable lag.
  • Solution: Perform a system reset. If the problem persists, a software update from the dealership may be available. In more severe cases, the infotainment system module may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $100+ (software update), $1000+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cracking/Splitting Headlight Housings
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight housings may crack or split prematurely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Warping/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material may warp or crack, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 Lexus IS350 is generally a reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues with carbon buildup, transmission harshness, suspension components, and the infotainment system. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to more significant repairs, with associated costs varying accordingly. The carbon buildup on the 3.5L engine and the warped dash can be costly repairs.