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2021 Lexus LC500

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By Research the Car 3 min read

The 2021 Lexus LC 500 is a grand touring coupe known for its stunning design, luxurious interior, and engaging driving experience. It is available with a naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 engine producing 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque or a 3.5L V6 with a hybrid motor to produce a combined 354 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The V8 is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid utilizes a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praise the LC 500 for its comfortable ride, high-quality materials, and distinctive styling. However, some criticisms include the limited rear seat space, infotainment system interface, and relatively small trunk.

Engine

5.0L V8

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and the need to add oil more often than expected.
    • Solution: Lexus may perform an oil consumption test to determine the severity of the issue. If consumption exceeds a certain threshold, the dealer may replace piston rings or, in severe cases, the entire engine.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely. Piston ring replacement can cost $3,000 - $5,000+. Engine replacement can exceed $10,000.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (AWR10L65)

  • Rough or Delayed Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly when downshifting or shifting at lower speeds. This can manifest as a noticeable “jerk” or hesitation during gear changes.
    • Solution: A software update for the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, valve body replacement or transmission replacement might be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update - $0-$200. Valve body replacement - $1,500 - $3,000+. Transmission replacement - $5,000 - $8,000+.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Error message in the dash regarding AVS system malfunction. The suspension may become stiff or remain in a single setting, affecting ride comfort and handling.
    • Solution: Diagnostic scan to determine the faulty component (sensor, actuator, or control module). Replacement of the malfunctioning part and recalibration of the system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sensor replacement $300 - $800+. Actuator replacement $800 - $1,500+. Control module replacement $1,000 - $2,000+.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, becomes unresponsive, or spontaneously reboots. This can disrupt navigation, audio playback, and other system functions.
    • Solution: A software update for the infotainment system may resolve the issue. In some cases, the dealer may replace the entire head unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update - $0 - $200. Head unit replacement - $1,500 - $3,000+.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Navigation System Errors
    • Description/Symptoms: Reports of inaccurate GPS location, incorrect routing, or failure to acquire satellite signals.
    • Solution: Check GPS antenna connection, update navigation software, or replace GPS antenna module if necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update - $0 - $200. Antenna replacement $200 - $500+.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Automatic Trunk/Hatch Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Automatic trunk/hatch fails to open or close correctly, requiring manual operation.
    • Solution: Check struts for proper gas pressure, replace struts if weak, or inspect/replace latching mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Strut replacement $200 - $500+. Latching Mechanism $300 - $700+.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Heater Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to turn on, producing inconsistent heat, or overheating.
    • Solution: Check wiring harness for loose connections or damage, replace heating element in seat, or replace seat heater control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Wiring repair $100-$300. Heating element replacement $300-$800. Control Module $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Lexus LC 500, while generally a reliable vehicle, has some reported issues. The most concerning are the potential for excessive oil consumption in the V8 engine, and the rough shifting of the 10-speed transmission, as these can lead to expensive repairs. Electrical issues like infotainment malfunctions also appear occasionally. While not widespread, these issues are important to be aware of when considering the purchase of a used LC 500. Repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific problem, but can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for more extensive repairs.

Lexus, LC500
Lexus LC500 2021
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