FaultScore

FaultScore report

2008 Lexus IS problems

Owners have filed 143 complaints about the 2008 Lexus IS with NHTSA between 2008 and 2025. The largest single group is the other & unspecified. Across this model's run it ranks 4 of 15 worst.

D

FaultScore 66/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Lexus IS.

How this is worked out

The numbers

143

Complaints

7

Crashes reported

0

Fires reported

4

Injuries reported

73,000 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

12%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 100 vs 50 Severity 40 vs 50 Early failure 21 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Lexus IS. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 40
7.7% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 21
12% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2008 compares with every other Lexus IS

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2008 Lexus IS

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Median failure at 70,000 miles

Body & Structure 23 16.1%

Median failure at 60,000 miles

Engine & Cooling 23 16.1%

Median failure at 104,000 miles

Airbags 21 14.7%

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 101,500 mi

Median failure at 56,500 miles

Fuel & Propulsion 7 4.9%

Median failure at 136,000 miles

Electrical System 6 4.2%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 110,000 mi

Transmission & Drivetrain 5 3.5%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 123,000 mi

Acceleration & Cruise Control 4 2.8%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 104,000 mi

Steering 4 2.8%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 78,923 mi

Seat Belts 3 2.1%

Median failure at 60,000 miles

Lights 3 2.1%

Median failure at 69,000 miles

Equipment & Accessories 2 1.4%

Median failure at 84,000 miles

Seats 2 1.4%
Brakes 2 1.4%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 3,700 mi

Suspension 1 0.7%

Median failure at 69,000 miles

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

Under 1,000 miles 3 3.7%
1,000 – 9,999 miles 2 2.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 4 4.9%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 5 6.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 28 34.6%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 7 8.6%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 25 30.9%
150,000+ miles 7 8.6%

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Dec 2008 peak 9 Apr 2025

Recalls on the 2008 Lexus IS

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

Canada — Transport Canada

Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not always mirror the American ones.

Recall 2018346 4,915 units in Canada

Fuel System

On certain vehicles equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine, the fuel pulsation dampers located in the fuel delivery pipe could develop a leak over time. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source could increase the risk of fire causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel delivery pipe with an updated part.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

at 95,000 miles Corona DEL MAR, CA Crash 1 injured

AIR BAGS

The contact owned a 2008 Lexus IS350. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 mph, the steering wheel began to turn to the left independently and crashed into a parked vehicle. The contact’s vehicle rolled over and landed on its roof before stopping. None of the air bags deploy upon impact. A bystander assisted the contact to exit the vehicle by breaking the front passenger side window with his foot. The contact was transported to the hospital by ambulance. The contact sustained bruising on her face and body. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the insurance company lot and deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. Prior to the failure, the vehicle was serviced for the air bags recall however, the dealer only replaced the passenger’s side air bag inflator and used masking tape for the engine hoses. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000. Seat belt held the consumer upside down like a hammock. The black box did not say seat belt was in use. Prior to accident consumer was driving by construction site and heard loud screeching scraping under car. Car steering or linkage went out and car went to left. Consumer did not intentionally steer car left. Consumer was blamed for accident when car malfunctioned.

NHTSA complaint #11445082 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 95,000 miles Corona DEL MAR, CA Crash 1 injured

STEERING

The contact owned a 2008 Lexus IS350. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 mph, the steering wheel began to turn to the left independently and crashed into a parked vehicle. The contact’s vehicle rolled over and landed on its roof before stopping. None of the air bags deploy upon impact. A bystander assisted the contact to exit the vehicle by breaking the front passenger side window with his foot. The contact was transported to the hospital by ambulance. The contact sustained bruising on her face and body. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the insurance company lot and deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. Prior to the failure, the vehicle was serviced for the air bags recall however, the dealer only replaced the passenger’s side air bag inflator and used masking tape for the engine hoses. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000. Seat belt held the consumer upside down like a hammock. The black box did not say seat belt was in use. Prior to accident consumer was driving by construction site and heard loud screeching scraping under car. Car steering or linkage went out and car went to left. Consumer did not intentionally steer car left. Consumer was blamed for accident when car malfunctioned.

NHTSA complaint #11445082 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 102,120 miles Beaumont, TX 2 injured

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

MY ISSUE PERTAINS TO THE STICKY DASH AND THE SAME MATERIALS USED ON PARTS OF THE DOOR NEAR THE HANDLES. WHEN THE TEMPERATURE GETS OVER 80 DEGREES THE MATERIAL STARTS TO MELT AND BECOMES EXTREME HOT AND STICKY. WHEN I TRIED TO GRAB PAPERS I LEFT ON THE DASH I HAD TO TEAR THEM OFF AND IT LEFT A STICKY SUBSTANCE. IT ALSO CAN BECOME EXTREMELY HOT AND WHEN I HIT ANY PART OF THE DASH WHEN HEATED IT BURNS AND STICKS TO ME. I ATTEMPTED TO CONTACT LEXUS AND THEY DECLINED MY CLAIM BECAUSE IT IS NOT A 'SAFETY ISSUE TO THEM OR THE NHTSA'

NHTSA complaint #11403928 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 123,000 miles Oakley, CA Crash

POWER TRAIN

I BOUGHT 2008 LEXUS IS250 WITH 123K MILES ON 05/18/19. I HAD INSPECTED BY A MECHANIC PRIOR TO PURCHASING IT. ON ONE OCASSION PROR TO ACCIDENT, I BACKED OUT OF A DRIVE WAY. WHEN I SHIFTED THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE IT SUDDEN ACCELERATED FOR A BRIEF MOMENT, BUT IT WAS CLEAR IN FRONT OF ME AND I REMAIN IN CONTROL. IT ONLY HAPPENED TO ME THAT ONE TIME THAT WEEK AND I THOUGHT NOTHING OF IT. IN THE MORNING OF MAY 29, 2019 THE CAR WAS PARALLEL PARKED WITH A VEHICLE BOTH IN FRONT BEHIND IT. MY WIFE SLOWLY BACK UP THE CAR TO ALLOW ROOM TO PULL OUT OF THE PARKING SPOT. SHE TURN THE FRONT WHEELS TOWARDS THE CURB SO THAT THE FRONT OF THE CAR WOULD SLIGHTLY STICK OUT. WHEN SHE SHIFTED THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE, THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, JUMP OVER THE CURB AND HIT THE CONCRETE WALL OF A SCHOOL. SHE PANICKED AT THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION AND DOES NOT REMEMBER IF SHE STEP ON ANY PEDAL DURING THAT TIME. SHE ONLY KNOWS IT ACCELERATED AS SOON AS SHE SHIFTED TO DRIVE AND THEN THE CAR HIT THE WALL. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND NO OTHER CAR WAS INVOLVED. WE MOVED THE CAR OFF THE SIDE WALK AND NOTIFIED THE INSURANCE AND THE SCHOOL ADMIN.THE INSURANCE DECLARED IT A TOTAL LOSS AND TOOK OWNERSHIP OF IT. A GASOLINE CAR ACCELERATE BY OPENING THE THROTTLE TO ALLOW MORE AIR INTO THE ENGINE. THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE SUDDENLY OPEN DUE TO THE PHYSICAL ELECTRONICS AND/OR SOFTWARE CONTROLLING IT WHEN THE TRANSMISSION IS SHIFT BETWEEN REVERSE AND DRIVE. DR. RONALD A. BELT THEORY SEEMS PLAUSIBLE. IF TRUE YOU WOULD THINK JUST CHANGING THE SOFTWARE TO GET AN AVERAGE OF VOLTAGE SAMPLES WOULD PREVENT THE OVER COMPENSATION OF THE ECU THROTTLE CONTROLLER CAUSE BY LOW VOLTAGE SPIKES. HTTPS://WWW.AUTOSAFETY.ORG/DR-RONALD-A-BELTS-SUDDEN-ACCELERATION-PAPERS/

NHTSA complaint #11240965 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 123,000 miles Oakley, CA Crash

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

I BOUGHT 2008 LEXUS IS250 WITH 123K MILES ON 05/18/19. I HAD INSPECTED BY A MECHANIC PRIOR TO PURCHASING IT. ON ONE OCASSION PROR TO ACCIDENT, I BACKED OUT OF A DRIVE WAY. WHEN I SHIFTED THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE IT SUDDEN ACCELERATED FOR A BRIEF MOMENT, BUT IT WAS CLEAR IN FRONT OF ME AND I REMAIN IN CONTROL. IT ONLY HAPPENED TO ME THAT ONE TIME THAT WEEK AND I THOUGHT NOTHING OF IT. IN THE MORNING OF MAY 29, 2019 THE CAR WAS PARALLEL PARKED WITH A VEHICLE BOTH IN FRONT BEHIND IT. MY WIFE SLOWLY BACK UP THE CAR TO ALLOW ROOM TO PULL OUT OF THE PARKING SPOT. SHE TURN THE FRONT WHEELS TOWARDS THE CURB SO THAT THE FRONT OF THE CAR WOULD SLIGHTLY STICK OUT. WHEN SHE SHIFTED THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE, THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, JUMP OVER THE CURB AND HIT THE CONCRETE WALL OF A SCHOOL. SHE PANICKED AT THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION AND DOES NOT REMEMBER IF SHE STEP ON ANY PEDAL DURING THAT TIME. SHE ONLY KNOWS IT ACCELERATED AS SOON AS SHE SHIFTED TO DRIVE AND THEN THE CAR HIT THE WALL. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND NO OTHER CAR WAS INVOLVED. WE MOVED THE CAR OFF THE SIDE WALK AND NOTIFIED THE INSURANCE AND THE SCHOOL ADMIN.THE INSURANCE DECLARED IT A TOTAL LOSS AND TOOK OWNERSHIP OF IT. A GASOLINE CAR ACCELERATE BY OPENING THE THROTTLE TO ALLOW MORE AIR INTO THE ENGINE. THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE SUDDENLY OPEN DUE TO THE PHYSICAL ELECTRONICS AND/OR SOFTWARE CONTROLLING IT WHEN THE TRANSMISSION IS SHIFT BETWEEN REVERSE AND DRIVE. DR. RONALD A. BELT THEORY SEEMS PLAUSIBLE. IF TRUE YOU WOULD THINK JUST CHANGING THE SOFTWARE TO GET AN AVERAGE OF VOLTAGE SAMPLES WOULD PREVENT THE OVER COMPENSATION OF THE ECU THROTTLE CONTROLLER CAUSE BY LOW VOLTAGE SPIKES. HTTPS://WWW.AUTOSAFETY.ORG/DR-RONALD-A-BELTS-SUDDEN-ACCELERATION-PAPERS/

NHTSA complaint #11240965 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 123,000 miles Kennett Square, PA Crash

AIR BAGS

THE SRS AIRBAG LIGHT WENT OFF, NEEDS A NEW SENSOR WHICH IS AROUND $1700. THE AIRBAGS WON'T WORK UNLESS THE SENSOR IS REPLACED WHICH IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE.

NHTSA complaint #10887578 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

Charlotte, NC

ENGINE

Vehicle: 2008 Lexus IS350 Issue: Excessive oil consumption and fuel/exhaust odor I am experiencing what I believe is excessive oil consumption with my 2008 Lexus IS350. I’ve had to regularly add oil between scheduled oil changes, and I’ve noticed that the oil level is frequently low with no external leaks visible. I’m concerned that this may indicate a known issue with piston rings or internal engine components. In addition to the oil issue, I have recently started smelling strong gas or exhaust fumes while the engine is running, especially at idle or when the car is warm. I am worried that this may be related to catalytic converter damage caused by prolonged oil burning. I believe this may pose both a safety risk and an environmental concern, especially if the catalytic converter is compromised. I have not yet received any recall notices or service bulletins related to this issue, but I am aware that similar Toyota and Lexus models have had oil consumption problems tied to engine design.

NHTSA complaint #11655160 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Charlotte, NC

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Vehicle: 2008 Lexus IS350 Issue: Excessive oil consumption and fuel/exhaust odor I am experiencing what I believe is excessive oil consumption with my 2008 Lexus IS350. I’ve had to regularly add oil between scheduled oil changes, and I’ve noticed that the oil level is frequently low with no external leaks visible. I’m concerned that this may indicate a known issue with piston rings or internal engine components. In addition to the oil issue, I have recently started smelling strong gas or exhaust fumes while the engine is running, especially at idle or when the car is warm. I am worried that this may be related to catalytic converter damage caused by prolonged oil burning. I believe this may pose both a safety risk and an environmental concern, especially if the catalytic converter is compromised. I have not yet received any recall notices or service bulletins related to this issue, but I am aware that similar Toyota and Lexus models have had oil consumption problems tied to engine design.

NHTSA complaint #11655160 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Cleveland, OH

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The dashboard is melting and makes a glare on the windshield making it hard to see the dashboard is melting and sticky also on the door panels I almost crashed when I couldn’t see due to the glare of the melting dashboard reflecting on the windshield

NHTSA complaint #11594599 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Cleveland, OH

STRUCTURE:BODY

The dashboard is melting and makes a glare on the windshield making it hard to see the dashboard is melting and sticky also on the door panels I almost crashed when I couldn’t see due to the glare of the melting dashboard reflecting on the windshield

NHTSA complaint #11594599 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Fresno, CA

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

I was driving approx. 60 entering on ramp of freeway when car suddenly loses power to accelerator not entire car, i almost was hit by other drivers i couldnt accelerate or anything. I panicked then started pumping accelerator then it finally catches and sped up. I immediately got off freeway. Then next day CEL, Check VSC light and skid light all came on. This car is very dangerous. WHATCAN I DO??? I refuse to use the freeway until this problem is resolved.

NHTSA complaint #11579738 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Fresno, CA

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I was driving approx. 60 entering on ramp of freeway when car suddenly loses power to accelerator not entire car, i almost was hit by other drivers i couldnt accelerate or anything. I panicked then started pumping accelerator then it finally catches and sped up. I immediately got off freeway. Then next day CEL, Check VSC light and skid light all came on. This car is very dangerous. WHATCAN I DO??? I refuse to use the freeway until this problem is resolved.

NHTSA complaint #11579738 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Fresno, CA

ENGINE

I was driving approx. 60 entering on ramp of freeway when car suddenly loses power to accelerator not entire car, i almost was hit by other drivers i couldnt accelerate or anything. I panicked then started pumping accelerator then it finally catches and sped up. I immediately got off freeway. Then next day CEL, Check VSC light and skid light all came on. This car is very dangerous. WHATCAN I DO??? I refuse to use the freeway until this problem is resolved.

NHTSA complaint #11579738 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Deatsville, AL

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

From my past research I’ve noticed there were recalls about the headlight ballast flashing, and getting replaced my car has this problem but never had a recall. The rear view mirror is fading and turning black making me not able to see. And all of my interior is becoming shiny and brittle making it hard to see out of my vehicle at anytime of day or night

NHTSA complaint #11564080 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Deatsville, AL

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

From my past research I’ve noticed there were recalls about the headlight ballast flashing, and getting replaced my car has this problem but never had a recall. The rear view mirror is fading and turning black making me not able to see. And all of my interior is becoming shiny and brittle making it hard to see out of my vehicle at anytime of day or night

NHTSA complaint #11564080 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Bethesda, MD

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The problem I am experiencing pertains to the dash of my Lexus IS 250. The dash cover has melted, most likely due to exposure to heat during sunny days. This melting dash has created a dangerous situation, as it causes a glaring reflection on the windshield, impairing my vision while driving. This glare poses a significant safety risk to both my and other road users, especially during sunny days when the reflection becomes more pronounced. My primary concern is that despite being aware of this safety issue and having conducted a recall, Lexus has chosen to put a deadline on addressing this problem. This approach contradicts the fundamental principle of ensuring the safety and well-being of Lexus vehicle owners and other road users. The melting dash issue is a manufacturing fault, and it should be addressed regardless of when it manifests itself.

NHTSA complaint #11554896 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Bethesda, MD

VISIBILITY/WIPER

The problem I am experiencing pertains to the dash of my Lexus IS 250. The dash cover has melted, most likely due to exposure to heat during sunny days. This melting dash has created a dangerous situation, as it causes a glaring reflection on the windshield, impairing my vision while driving. This glare poses a significant safety risk to both my and other road users, especially during sunny days when the reflection becomes more pronounced. My primary concern is that despite being aware of this safety issue and having conducted a recall, Lexus has chosen to put a deadline on addressing this problem. This approach contradicts the fundamental principle of ensuring the safety and well-being of Lexus vehicle owners and other road users. The melting dash issue is a manufacturing fault, and it should be addressed regardless of when it manifests itself.

NHTSA complaint #11554896 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 70,000 miles Painesville, OH

STRUCTURE:INTERIOR PANELS:DASHBOARD

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus IS250. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the dashboard and the door panels melted causing the vehicle to become sticky. The vehicle was diagnosed and confirmed that there was a recall on melting dashboards, but the recall was no longer active. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the vehicle was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

NHTSA complaint #11540388 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 70,000 miles Painesville, OH

STRUCTURE:INTERIOR PANELS:DOOR

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus IS250. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the dashboard and the door panels melted causing the vehicle to become sticky. The vehicle was diagnosed and confirmed that there was a recall on melting dashboards, but the recall was no longer active. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the vehicle was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

NHTSA complaint #11540388 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 102,000 miles Renton, WA

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus IS250. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally strong fuel odor coming from the vehicle. The failure persisted and the fuel light frequently illuminated on the instrument panel after refueling. The contact inspected the vehicle and discovered fuel residue in the fuel pressure sensor located by the intake manifold. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V432000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) which he linked to the failure. The manufacturer and the dealer were notified of the failure; however, the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.

NHTSA complaint #11537744 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Torrance, CA

ENGINE

UPON STARTING VEHICLE, ENGINE LOUDLY RATTLES FOR APROX. ONE SECOND AS IF SOMETHING IS LOOSE. THIS INSTANCE IS DIRECTLY IN LINE WITH LEXUS TSB "L-SB-0155-08" (Engine - Brief Engine Knock/Rattle On Cold Start Up). FURTHER INVESTIGATION SHOWS THIS IS A MAJOR CONCERN AS THIS INVOLVES A FAULTY CAMSHAFT ASSEMBLY.

NHTSA complaint #11481405 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Roswell, NM

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

- The door panel and dashboard is melting under normal to warm weather conditions. Yes. - The rubber is degrading and coming off in pieces . I am concerned that inhalation or contact with this rubber material is a chemical hazard and/or carcinogenic. Also, the shiny sticky dash impedes my driving visibility with a constant glare. - Yes, Lexus offered a limited recall for 2-3 years only. I was never informed of the issue despite going to a Lexus dealership for another safety recall in 2017. - It has been inspected by Toyota but not Lexus. - The rubber began to noticeably degrade in 2019, however, it’s likely it began earlier. It has progressively worsened over time. The recall expired in 2018. I informed Lexus, who greedily stated that they could not help me despite them knowingly installing faulty, failing parts in the car, which may be carcinogenic, and as well as, negatively diminishes my visibility with a reflective glare. Plastic and rubber should not melt at normal temperatures and I have never encountered this issue with any car I’ve ever owned.

NHTSA complaint #11480665 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Roswell, NM

STRUCTURE:BODY

- The door panel and dashboard is melting under normal to warm weather conditions. Yes. - The rubber is degrading and coming off in pieces . I am concerned that inhalation or contact with this rubber material is a chemical hazard and/or carcinogenic. Also, the shiny sticky dash impedes my driving visibility with a constant glare. - Yes, Lexus offered a limited recall for 2-3 years only. I was never informed of the issue despite going to a Lexus dealership for another safety recall in 2017. - It has been inspected by Toyota but not Lexus. - The rubber began to noticeably degrade in 2019, however, it’s likely it began earlier. It has progressively worsened over time. The recall expired in 2018. I informed Lexus, who greedily stated that they could not help me despite them knowingly installing faulty, failing parts in the car, which may be carcinogenic, and as well as, negatively diminishes my visibility with a reflective glare. Plastic and rubber should not melt at normal temperatures and I have never encountered this issue with any car I’ve ever owned.

NHTSA complaint #11480665 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Duluth, GA

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Dashboard and door panels are melting to the point that (short) nails get stuck every time we drive. Car is parked under a roof and it’s still melting. Poor visibility due to shine.

NHTSA complaint #11464299 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Duluth, GA

STRUCTURE:BODY

Dashboard and door panels are melting to the point that (short) nails get stuck every time we drive. Car is parked under a roof and it’s still melting. Poor visibility due to shine.

NHTSA complaint #11464299 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Duluth, GA

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Dashboard and door panels are melting to the point that (short) nails get stuck every time we drive. Car is parked under a roof and it’s still melting. Poor visibility due to shine.

NHTSA complaint #11464299 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

NEW Bedford, MA

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

front dashboard is sticky, cracked, and peeling off as well as the front and back door panels.

NHTSA complaint #11447276 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 95,000 miles Corona DEL MAR, CA Crash 1 injured

AIR BAGS

The contact owned a 2008 Lexus IS350. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 mph, the steering wheel began to turn to the left independently and crashed into a parked vehicle. The contact’s vehicle rolled over and landed on its roof before stopping. None of the air bags deploy upon impact. A bystander assisted the contact to exit the vehicle by breaking the front passenger side window with his foot. The contact was transported to the hospital by ambulance. The contact sustained bruising on her face and body. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the insurance company lot and deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. Prior to the failure, the vehicle was serviced for the air bags recall however, the dealer only replaced the passenger’s side air bag inflator and used masking tape for the engine hoses. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000. Seat belt held the consumer upside down like a hammock. The black box did not say seat belt was in use. Prior to accident consumer was driving by construction site and heard loud screeching scraping under car. Car steering or linkage went out and car went to left. Consumer did not intentionally steer car left. Consumer was blamed for accident when car malfunctioned.

NHTSA complaint #11445082 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 95,000 miles Corona DEL MAR, CA Crash 1 injured

STEERING

The contact owned a 2008 Lexus IS350. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 mph, the steering wheel began to turn to the left independently and crashed into a parked vehicle. The contact’s vehicle rolled over and landed on its roof before stopping. None of the air bags deploy upon impact. A bystander assisted the contact to exit the vehicle by breaking the front passenger side window with his foot. The contact was transported to the hospital by ambulance. The contact sustained bruising on her face and body. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the insurance company lot and deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. Prior to the failure, the vehicle was serviced for the air bags recall however, the dealer only replaced the passenger’s side air bag inflator and used masking tape for the engine hoses. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000. Seat belt held the consumer upside down like a hammock. The black box did not say seat belt was in use. Prior to accident consumer was driving by construction site and heard loud screeching scraping under car. Car steering or linkage went out and car went to left. Consumer did not intentionally steer car left. Consumer was blamed for accident when car malfunctioned.

NHTSA complaint #11445082 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Tuscaloosa, AL

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The dash is melting and is extremely sticky. On sunny days, the sunlight reflects off of the dash and onto the windshield obstructing the driver's view. In addition, anything that gets on the dash sticks and cannot be removed. This debris also reflects on the windshield causing issues with visibility. I have contacted Lexus directly and have been told they will not repair or replace the dash because this was only a TSB and my car is now beyond the term for the TSB. This is something that should be a recall because it prevents the driver from being able to see what is happening in front of the vehicle and could cause an accident.

NHTSA complaint #11444960 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Tampa, FL

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Electrical Issues started at approximately 30,000 miles. Random times of power windows not rolling down or back up. Random times of Radio controls not working. After recall of airbags was completed, the Navigation system started having Random issues with the touchscreen. Sometimes it would work and sometimes it didn't. Eventually the touchscreen on the Navigation quit working at all. When the door panels were replaced, the windows started working more consistently. The Air Conditioner stopped working one day. The next day after driving it back into the driveway, over the driveway bump, it started working. The entire electrical system seems like there are wires that make a connection, then maybe come loose just barely enough to no longer make a connection. And just a mechanic's hand brushing against something during a normal maintenance check up fixes it temporarily. Or hitting a bump in the road. Every issue is ELECTRICAL related. There are many other IS250 owners with the same issues all over public forums online. Many too that their Navigation no longer worked after few miles on the car. Could these electrical issues cause a fire? How do we know it can't? It's always a worry when I drive my car.

NHTSA complaint #11437006 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.