2020 Lexus LS500h

The 2020 Lexus LS500h is a luxury hybrid sedan known for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and fuel efficiency. Its hybrid powertrain combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 354 horsepower and delivering a refined driving experience. Other LS500 models (non-hybrid) feature a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 416 horsepower. Common positive aspects include the comfortable interior, advanced technology, and Lexus’s reputation for reliability. Criticisms often focus on the touchpad infotainment system, which some find unintuitive, and the somewhat conservative styling compared to rivals. The LS500h offers a blend of luxury and efficiency, but owners should be aware of potential issues outlined below.

Electric Motor

• Electric Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported complete failure of the electric motor. Symptoms include a loss of hybrid functionality, warning lights on the dashboard, and reduced power.
  • Solution: Replacement of the electric motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Battery Pack

• Hybrid Battery Degradation/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced electric range, decreased fuel economy, and warning lights indicating a hybrid system malfunction are common signs. Some owners have reported complete failure of the hybrid battery.
  • Solution: Battery conditioning if available, and if the battery is bad then the replacement of the hybrid battery pack is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• ECVT (Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission) Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noticed a rough or jerky transition between electric and gasoline power, resulting in harsh shifting or surging sensation
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM) or replacement of the ECVT if the problem persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (software update), $6,000 - $8,000+ (ECVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension can fail, leading to a saggy ride height, uneven suspension, and an uncomfortable driving experience. Warning lights for the suspension system may also appear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air suspension components (air struts, compressor, or sensors).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per corner.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, including the navigation and audio, can freeze, become unresponsive, or randomly reboot.
  • Solution: Software update, system reset, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ (software update), $1,000 - $3,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Sensors related to safety systems (e.g., blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, parking sensors) may malfunction, resulting in false alerts or system inoperability.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Touchpad Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system is controlled primarily by a touchpad, and some users find it difficult to use while driving.
  • Solution: Not applicable - this is a design issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Lexus LS500h, while generally reliable, has reported issues related to the electric motor, hybrid battery, transmission, air suspension (if equipped), and electrical systems. The severity of these issues ranges from minor software glitches to major component failures, potentially leading to high repair costs. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and consider extended warranties or thorough inspections before purchasing a used model.