2023 Lexus IS500

The 2023 Lexus IS500 is a performance-oriented compact luxury sedan that boasts a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine. This engine delivers 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the IS lineup include a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 and a 3.5-liter V6, paired with either an 8-speed automatic or a 6-speed automatic transmission depending on the engine and trim level. The IS500, however, is exclusively equipped with the 5.0L V8 and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the IS500 for its engaging driving experience, distinctive exhaust note, and comfortable interior. Some common dislikes include the dated infotainment system and limited rear seat space.

Engine

5.0L 2UR-GSE V8

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating. May be caused by faulty injector or clogged fuel system.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified technician to determine the faulty injector(s). Replacement of the failed fuel injector(s) and cleaning of the fuel system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector, depending on the repair shop and parts used.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level, and visible oil on the engine. Leaks can originate from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or front crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the corresponding gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location of the leak and the labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible coolant leak or smell from the engine bay and/or passenger cabin (if the leak is from the heater core).
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AA81E 8-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears. Hesitation or delay when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, transmission fluid flush or replacement of valve body components may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the required repair. A TCM flash is typically under $200, while valve body replacement can be significantly more expensive.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Creaking/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or squeaking sounds coming from the suspension, particularly when going over bumps or turning. Can be caused by worn-out bushings, ball joints, or sway bar links.
  • Solution: Inspection of the suspension components and replacement of any worn or damaged parts. Lubrication of the suspension components may temporarily alleviate the noise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component, depending on the part being replaced and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or randomly reboots.
  • Solution: Software update for the infotainment system. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if a software update resolves the issue) to $500 - $2000+ (if the unit needs to be replaced).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may have issues with its driver assist features such as lane keep assist, radar cruise control, automatic braking, etc. This can be caused by faulty sensors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the required repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling/Buzzing Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing sounds coming from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck.
  • Solution: Locating the source of the noise and applying sound deadening material or tightening loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Lexus IS500, while generally reliable, does have some reported issues. The most concerning are the potential fuel injector and oil leak problems with the 5.0L V8 engine, which can lead to costly repairs. Harsh shifting in the transmission and suspension noises are other areas of concern. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system can also be frustrating. While not all IS500 owners will experience these issues, it’s important to be aware of them when considering purchasing the vehicle. The severity and cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage.