2020 Lexus LS500

The 2020 Lexus LS500 is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, opulent interior, and advanced technology. Available in rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations, it boasts a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Some of the highlights of the LS500 are its quiet cabin, smooth ride, and user-friendly infotainment system (despite some criticisms, as mentioned below). Common complaints center around the Remote Touch interface, which some find clunky and distracting, as well as the somewhat uninspired engine sound for a luxury vehicle in this class.

Engine

3.5L Twin-Turbo V6

• Coolant Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking externally from water pump area. Overheating of engine.
  • Solution: Replace water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional harsh or jerky shifting, especially at lower speeds. Hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM). In more severe cases, replacement of valve body or transmission may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $5,000+ (transmission replacement)

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, controlled by Lexus’ Remote Touch interface, may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Restarting the system may temporarily resolve the issue. A software update from the dealer is a more permanent fix. In rare cases, the entire infotainment unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $2,000+ (infotainment unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially when left unused for a few days. Can cause starting issues.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic drains on the electrical system. A software update may resolve it. Replacing the battery is a potential solution if it is faulty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (New Battery) - $1,000+ (Diagnosing and fixing electrical drains)

Interior

• Remote Touch Interface Usability
  • Description/Symptoms: Many owners find the Remote Touch interface difficult and distracting to use while driving. The touchpad is often criticized for being overly sensitive and imprecise.
  • Solution: There is no direct “fix.” Getting used to the system over time is the most common approach. Some owners explore aftermarket options for alternative control methods (though this is limited).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
• Sunroof Rattle or Squeak
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noises coming from the sunroof area, particularly when driving on uneven roads.
  • Solution: Lubricating the sunroof seals and tracks may temporarily alleviate the noise. Adjusting the sunroof mechanism at the dealership may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$200+

Exterior

• Sensor Malfunction (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitor)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms or failure to detect objects from parking sensors or the blind spot monitor system.
  • Solution: Check sensors for dirt, debris, or damage. Recalibrating or replacing faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Summary

The 2020 Lexus LS500 is a comfortable and luxurious vehicle, but it does have some common issues. The most common issues are with the infotainment system. The water pump issue can become severe if not caught in time. The Remote Touch interface remains a point of contention for many owners due to its usability. Although most issues are not severe, they can be costly, particularly if they involve electrical repairs or transmission work.