2019 Lexus LS500h

The 2019 Lexus LS500h is a luxury hybrid sedan known for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and sophisticated technology. The LS500h features a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, producing a combined 354 horsepower. Other engine options for the 2019 LS line include a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 in the LS500. The LS500h uses a unique Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System with a 4-speed automatic attached to the electric motor, giving the feeling of a 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the LS500h’s fuel efficiency, comfortable interior, and refined driving experience. Common complaints include the infotainment system’s complexity and the lack of traditional buttons for some functions.

Electric Motor

3.5L V6 Hybrid Electric Motor

• Inverter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check hybrid system message, loss of power, vehicle may not start or move. Diagnostic codes related to inverter malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacement of the inverter assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System (Simulated 10-speed)

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable jerking or harsh shifts, particularly during low-speed transitions.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, transmission valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $2,000+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunction (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower than normal, uneven ride height, “Check Air Suspension” warning light. Possible failure of air struts, air compressor, or height sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific failing component (strut, compressor, sensor) and replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1500+ for compressor, $300 - $800+ for sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or randomly restarts.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $2,000+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Errors
  • Description/Symptoms: Incorrect map data, failure to acquire GPS signal, or routing errors.
  • Solution: Software update for the navigation system, replacement of the GPS antenna.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500+ (antenna replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of non-use, requiring frequent jump starts. Possible parasitic draw from an electrical component.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw by a qualified technician, replacement of faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Material Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Sticky or melting dashboard material, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making unusual noises when opening or closing, or leaking.
  • Solution: Sunroof track cleaning and lubrication, replacement of the sunroof motor or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Trunk Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Trunk lid not opening or closing automatically, trunk getting stuck mid-cycle.
  • Solution: Adjusting the trunk latch, replacing the trunk motor or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Lexus LS500h, while generally reliable, can experience issues ranging from minor infotainment glitches to more significant problems like inverter failure. The cost of repairs can vary widely, with electrical and interior issues generally being less expensive to fix than suspension or hybrid system malfunctions. Potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of high repair costs, particularly related to the hybrid system and air suspension (if equipped), and thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any signs of these issues before purchasing.