2020 Lexus IS350

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2020 Lexus IS 350, categorized by major components.

The 2020 Lexus IS 350 is a compact luxury sport sedan known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. All models use a six-speed automatic transmission for rear-wheel-drive models and an eight-speed automatic transmission for all-wheel-drive models. What people often like about the IS 350 is its smooth engine, comfortable interior, and Lexus’ reputation for reliability. Some common dislikes include the somewhat dated infotainment system, smaller rear seat space compared to competitors, and not the most fuel efficient engine.

Engine

3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with fuel injectors failing prematurely. Symptoms include rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per injector, depending on location and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Spring
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the valve spring being out of spec. Symptoms include rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ depending on if you’re replacing one valve spring, all valve springs, or the cylinder head.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Rear-Wheel Drive)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted occasional harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear, or during downshifts. This might be more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and software update might resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for fluid flush and software update. $800-$2000+ for valve body, $3000+ for transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic (All-Wheel Drive)

• Hesitation or Delay in Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported a lag or delay when shifting from a stop or during passing maneuvers. This can feel like the transmission is “hunting” for the right gear.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and software update may improve the shifting behavior. If the issue persists, a more in-depth diagnosis of the transmission control module (TCM) and valve body might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for fluid flush and software update. More in-depth diagnostics can add additional cost.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lag
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system (navigation, audio, climate controls) can occasionally freeze, become unresponsive, or exhibit noticeable lag.
  • Solution: A system reset or software update from the dealership is typically the first step. In some cases, the head unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update. $800 - $2000+ for head unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent failure of the backup camera, resulting in a blank or distorted image on the infotainment screen when reversing.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and wiring. If the wiring is in good condition, the camera itself may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on whether it’s a wiring issue or camera replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Creaking/Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported creaking or rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, particularly when driving on uneven roads or in cold weather.
  • Solution: Locate the source of the noise and use felt tape or foam to dampen the vibration. This may require professional assistance to disassemble the dashboard panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Power Seats
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seat motor can sometimes fail, or the seat may get stuck in a certain position and unable to move.
  • Solution: Inspect the power seat motor and wiring harness for damage. The motor, or the entire seat assembly, may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on whether it’s a wiring issue or requires motor/seat replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Lexus IS 350 is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has some potential issues. The most commonly reported issues revolve around electrical problems, such as the infotainment system and backup camera. Engine and transmission issues are less common, but they can be more costly to fix when they occur. Dashboard rattles and malfunctioning power seats are less severe but can be annoying. Overall, many issues are typically minor and can be addressed with software updates or relatively inexpensive repairs. However, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of more costly repairs like fuel injector failure, valve springs, transmission issues or infotainment head unit replacement, and factor this into their purchase decision.