2018 Lexus IS350
2018 Lexus IS350
Overview
The 2018 Lexus IS350 is a compact luxury sedan known for its blend of performance, comfort, and Lexus’s renowned reliability. It typically comes equipped with a potent V6 engine and an automatic transmission, offering a refined driving experience. This model year generally benefits from Lexus’s meticulous engineering and quality control, leading to a strong reputation for durability. Owners often praise its quiet cabin, upscale interior, and engaging handling, especially in F Sport trims. While no vehicle is entirely immune to issues, the IS350 from this era is statistically a very dependable choice, with most reported concerns being minor or related to typical usage rather than inherent design flaws. Maintenance is generally straightforward, contributing to its lower long-term ownership costs compared to some competitors.
Engine
3.5L V6 (2GR-FSE)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (RWD)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
6-Speed Automatic (AWD)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
Occasional Glitches
- Symptoms: Minor screen freezes or unresponsiveness.
- Solution: Software update or system reset.
- Cost: $0 - $150
Battery
Premature Failure (Rare)
- Symptoms: Difficulty starting, dimming lights.
- Solution: Battery replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Exterior
Paint and Body Panels
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Lighting Systems
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Upholstery and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Climate Control System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2018 Lexus IS350 stands out as a highly reliable vehicle, consistently performing well in reliability surveys. The powertrain, including the robust 3.5L V6 engine and its associated automatic transmissions (8-speed for RWD, 6-speed for AWD), shows no significant widespread issues. Suspension components are also generally durable. Minor electrical concerns, primarily related to occasional infotainment system glitches or rare premature battery failure, are the most commonly cited, but these are typically manageable and not indicative of systemic problems. Exterior and interior components are well-built and hold up well over time. Overall, the 2018 IS350 is an excellent choice for buyers seeking a dependable and luxurious compact sedan with a low probability of major mechanical troubles.