The Lexus IS250, a compact executive car, has been a popular choice for those seeking a blend of luxury, reliability, and sporty handling. However, like any vehicle, certain model years are known for their superior build quality, fewer reported issues, and overall better ownership experience. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the best and worst years for the Lexus IS250, helping you make an informed decision when considering purchasing one.
Lexus IS250 Model Year Comparison
| Model Year | Notable Strengths | Potential Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Initial release, iconic design, good handling. | Carbon buildup issues, potential water pump failures, early adopter quirks. |
| 2007 | Improved over 2006, refined interior. | Carbon buildup issues, potential water pump failures. |
| 2008 | Minor cosmetic updates, enhanced features. | Carbon buildup issues, potential water pump failures, possible oil consumption. |
| 2009 | Further refinements, improved technology options. | Carbon buildup issues, potential water pump failures, possible oil consumption. |
| 2010 | Revised styling, improved interior materials. | Carbon buildup issues, potential water pump failures, possible oil consumption. |
| 2011 | Minor updates, enhanced safety features. | Carbon buildup issues, potential water pump failures, possible oil consumption. |
| 2012 | Last year of the first generation, generally reliable due to refinement. | Carbon buildup issues, potential water pump failures, possible oil consumption. |
| 2014 | Second generation launch, refreshed design, improved technology. | Potential for early second-generation issues. |
| 2015 | Refined second generation, improved reliability. | Infotainment system could be more user-friendly. |
| 2016 | Enhanced safety features, comfortable ride. | Some find the engine underpowered. |
| 2017 | Minor updates, improved fuel efficiency. | Infotainment system remains a sticking point for some. |
| 2018 | Minor updates, improved safety features. | Some find the engine underpowered. |
| 2019 | Generally reliable, well-rounded package. | Infotainment system remains a sticking point for some. |
| 2020 | Final year of the second generation, highly refined and reliable. | Potentially higher prices due to being the last model year. |
Detailed Explanations
2006: As the inaugural year for the Lexus IS250, the 2006 model introduced a sleek design and sporty driving dynamics. However, being the first model year, it was also susceptible to early production issues, most notably carbon buildup in the engine. This model also had a high rate of water pump failures.
2007: Building upon the 2006 model, the 2007 Lexus IS250 saw improvements in interior refinement. However, the carbon buildup issue persisted, making it crucial to check the maintenance history and consider professional cleaning. Water pump issues were still prevalent.
2008: The 2008 IS250 received minor cosmetic updates and feature enhancements. Unfortunately, the carbon buildup issue remained a concern, and some owners reported increased oil consumption.
2009: Further refinements were made to the 2009 Lexus IS250, including improved technology options. However, the core engine issues, such as carbon buildup and potential oil consumption, were still present.
2010: The 2010 model year brought a revised styling and improved interior materials to the IS250. Despite these upgrades, the underlying engine problems, including carbon buildup and potential water pump failures, continued to be a concern.
2011: The 2011 Lexus IS250 offered minor updates and enhanced safety features. However, the long-standing issues with carbon buildup and potential oil consumption remained, necessitating careful inspection and maintenance.
2012: The 2012 model marked the final year of the first generation IS250. By this point, many of the initial production issues had been addressed, resulting in a generally more reliable vehicle. However, carbon buildup could still be a problem, as well as water pump failures and oil consumption.
2014: The 2014 IS250 represented the launch of the second generation, featuring a refreshed design and improved technology. As with any new generation, there was potential for early production issues, although these were generally less severe than those of the first generation.
2015: The 2015 model year saw further refinement of the second-generation IS250, leading to improved reliability. The infotainment system was a point of contention for some, as it wasn't the most user-friendly.
2016: The 2016 IS250 boasted enhanced safety features and a comfortable ride. Some drivers, however, found the engine to be slightly underpowered, particularly when compared to competitors.
2017: Minor updates and improved fuel efficiency characterized the 2017 IS250. The infotainment system remained a sticking point for some, as it was not as intuitive or modern as systems found in other vehicles.
2018: The 2018 IS250 received minor updates and improved safety features. Similar to the 2016 model, some drivers felt that the engine lacked sufficient power for the car's sporty aspirations.
2019: The 2019 IS250 was generally considered a reliable and well-rounded package. The infotainment system, however, continued to be a potential drawback for some buyers.
2020: As the final year of the second-generation IS250, the 2020 model was highly refined and reliable. Due to its status as the last model year, it may command a higher price on the used market.
Common Issues Explained
Carbon Buildup: This is a prevalent issue in the early IS250 models (2006-2012). The direct injection system can lead to carbon deposits forming on the intake valves, reducing engine performance and fuel efficiency. Regular cleaning or preventative measures are recommended.
Water Pump Failures: Some IS250 models, particularly those from the earlier years, have experienced water pump failures. This can lead to overheating and potential engine damage. Keeping an eye on engine temperature and replacing the water pump as preventative maintenance can help avoid this issue.
Oil Consumption: A number of IS250 owners have reported excessive oil consumption, especially in the 2008-2012 model years. Regular oil level checks and using the correct type of oil are crucial to mitigate this problem.
Infotainment System: While the IS250 offers a luxurious interior and comfortable ride, the infotainment system in some model years (particularly those before significant updates) can be considered outdated and less user-friendly compared to modern systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Lexus IS250 year is the most reliable? The 2019 and 2020 model years are generally considered the most reliable due to their refinement and fewer reported issues.
What is the biggest problem with the early IS250 models? The most significant issue with the 2006-2012 IS250 models is carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can affect engine performance.
Should I avoid the 2006 Lexus IS250? While the 2006 IS250 is a stylish car, it's crucial to be aware of potential carbon buildup issues and water pump failures before purchasing. Thorough inspection and maintenance records are essential.
Are Lexus IS250s expensive to maintain? Generally, the IS250 is not excessively expensive to maintain, but addressing issues like carbon buildup and water pump failures can add to the cost. Regular maintenance is key to keeping costs down.
How often should I clean the carbon buildup in my IS250? The frequency of carbon cleaning depends on driving habits and fuel quality, but typically every 30,000 to 50,000 miles is recommended.
Is the Lexus IS250 a good car for daily driving? Yes, the IS250 is a comfortable and reliable car that makes it suitable for daily driving, especially if you prioritize luxury and a smooth ride.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Lexus IS250 model year can significantly impact your ownership experience. While the early models (2006-2012) offer an attractive price point, be prepared to address potential carbon buildup issues. Models from 2019 and 2020 provide a more refined and reliable experience, making them the best choices overall. Always perform a thorough inspection and review the maintenance history before making a purchase to ensure you get the most out of your Lexus IS250.