The journey of the Lexus IS300 reveals a blend of elegance and performance, yet not every model year lives up to its promise. For enthusiasts and potential buyers alike, understanding the Lexus IS300 years to avoid requires discerning judgment. While the IS300 often shines in its class, certain years stand out for the wrong reasons. Mechanical quirks, reliability issues, and technological missteps have marred some editions. Delve with us into the specifics of these problematic years, ensuring that your pursuit of a Lexus IS300 remains informed and judicious.
2001-2002 Lexus IS300
The early 2000s brought us many things, but the inaugural Lexus IS300 was not one of the highlights. Think of the 2001 IS300 as the freshman who stumbled awkwardly through high school – a prototype figuring itself out. These initial models are notorious for cooling system failures, which is akin to a marathon runner suddenly cramping mid-race. The throttle hesitation issues in these models felt like pressing the gas pedal only to have the car ponderously consider your request before grudgingly moving. This lag can be frustrating and, over time, leads to costly repairs that can drain your wallet faster than a leaky faucet.
Related: Lexus Ct200h Years To Avoid
2007 Lexus IS 250
While the 2007 Lexus IS 250 isn’t an IS300, it’s a sibling you’d rather not have at your family reunion. The 2007 IS 250 is riddled with issues that make it one of the least reliable models. Imagine trying to drive while the dashboard melts under the sun, creating a reflective glare that could blind you – yes, that’s a real problem with this model. The fuel system is another Pandora’s box, with fuel injector problems causing the engine to shut off unexpectedly, often in the middle of a drive. This is like playing a game of Russian roulette every time you start the car.
Additionally, the airbag sensor is notorious for malfunctioning, a direct result of the infamous Takata airbag recall. Driving this model can feel like navigating a minefield, with the flickering headlights adding to the eerie unpredictability. To top it off, the power steering has a tendency to fail, leaving you wrestling with the wheel like it’s a stubborn mule. These issues are why Lexus IS300 years to avoid becomes a relevant search term for potential buyers.
More Reliable Alternatives
2014 Lexus IS 300
On the brighter side of the Lexus family tree is the 2014 IS 300, which has earned its stripes in the reliability department. This model is like a seasoned performer, delivering a sporty exterior and luxurious interior features that make you feel like you’re driving a modern chariot. The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, along with a high reliability rating from J.D. Power, make it a tech-savvy companion for the road.
2018 and 2019 Lexus IS 350
Then there are the 2018 and 2019 IS 350 models, the star athletes of the Lexus lineup. The 2018 model, in particular, combines a smooth ride quality with a suite of safety features, making it a secure fortress on wheels. It boasts a V6 engine that delivers 311 horsepower, giving it the speed of a cheetah on the highway. The 2019 model continues this legacy, offering dual-zone automatic climate control and maintaining the robust safety features of its predecessor. Despite a few minor drawbacks, like the absence of Apple CarPlay and subpar fuel economy, these models stand tall with impressive reliability ratings from Car and Driver and US Car News
