2021 Lexus IS350

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the common issues and complaints for the 2021 Lexus IS350, categorized by major component and including specific engine and transmission options.

The 2021 Lexus IS350 is a luxury sports sedan known for its refined driving experience, comfortable interior, and Lexus reliability. Engine options include a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (IS300 RWD), a 3.5L V6 (IS300 AWD & IS350 RWD/AWD). The IS350’s 3.5L V6 produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The IS300 RWD uses an 8-speed automatic transmission, and the IS300 AWD and IS350 use a 6-speed automatic transmission. Common praises for the IS350 include its sharp handling, smooth ride, and high-quality interior materials. Criticisms often focus on the infotainment system’s usability and limited rear seat space, as well as the dated 6-speed transmission.

Engine

3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)

• Fuel Injector Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel smell, rough idling, difficulty starting. May be traced to a faulty fuel injector o-ring or a cracked injector body, often due to ethanol content in fuel causing premature degradation of rubber and plastic parts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s) and potentially the fuel rail if corrosion is present.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the number of injectors needing replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Water Pump replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (AWD Models - IS300 AWD & IS350)

• Harsh Shifting/Clunking
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky gear changes, particularly noticeable when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear or downshifting at lower speeds. Some owners report a “clunk” sound when the transmission engages.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and refill may alleviate minor symptoms. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement might be necessary. Check solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush ($200 - $400), valve body replacement ($1,200 - $2,500+), transmission rebuild/replacement ($3,500 - $6,000+).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises when going over bumps, loose handling, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per corner depending on the bushings replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, lags, or becomes unresponsive. Bluetooth connectivity issues may also be present.
  • Solution: Software update. If the problem persists, replacement of the infotainment unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update (typically free at the dealer), infotainment unit replacement ($1,500 - $3,000+).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Door Lock Actuator
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator fails, causing the door to not lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Door lock actuator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noises coming from the dashboard, center console, or door panels.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the rattle/squeak. This may involve adding felt tape, tightening loose fasteners, or replacing damaged clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on the source and complexity of the issue ($50 - $500+).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cracking Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights start to crack
  • Solution: Headlight replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Lexus IS350 is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners have reported some common issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the infotainment system’s occasional freezing/lagging and potential transmission issues in AWD models with the 6-speed automatic. Engine problems like fuel injector leaks and water pump failure can occur, but are not widespread. Interior rattles are a nuisance but typically do not impact vehicle functionality. While some repairs like transmission rebuilds can be costly, many issues can be resolved relatively inexpensively. As with any used vehicle, a thorough inspection is recommended before purchase.