Owners have filed 59 complaints
about the 2008 Lexus LS with NHTSA between 2008 and 2026.
The largest single group is the brakes.
Across this model's run it ranks 3 of 8 worst.
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.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Lexus LS. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 17
3.4% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 32
19% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
26.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
412.5%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
39.4%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
515.6%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
412.5%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
825.0%
150,000+ miles
618.8%
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.
Aug 2008peak 7May 2026
Recalls on the 2008 Lexus LS
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.
United States — NHTSA
09V020000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 214,570 MY 2006-2008 LEXUS IS, MY 2006-2007 GS AND MY 2007-2008 LS PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ALUMINUM FUEL DELIVERY PIPES (FUEL RAILS). ETHANOL FUELS WITH A LOW MOISTURE CONTENT WILL CORRODE THE INTERNAL SURFACE OF THE FUEL RAILS. AS THIS CONDITION PROGRESSES, THE ENGINE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT MAY ILLUMINATE.
Risk: OVER TIME, THE CORROSION MAY CREATE A PINHOLE RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 132,000 milesMarietta, GAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MY LEXUS LS460 SPONTANEOUSLY STARTED ON FIRE IN A PUBLIC PARKING LOT. NO WARNING LIGHTS ,NO KNOWN CAR PROBLEMS. I HAD PARKED MY CAR TO RUN INTO A STORE. WHEN I TURNED IT OFF IT MADE A LOUD REPETITIVE CLACKING SOUND. I TURNED IT BACK ON AND TURNED IT OFF AGAIN. SAME THING. I TURNED IT BACK ON AND TRIED TO BACK UP BUT IT STALLED. STARTED TO SMELL... SOMETHING WAS BURNING AND SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE UNDER THE HOOD. BECAME VERY CLEAR THAT THE ENGINE WAS ON FIRE. I CALLED 911 AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDED. AFTERWARDS, I ASKED THEM IF THEY COULD TELL HOW IT STARTED ...THEY SAID NO BUT IT WAS ELECTRICAL. I WILL HAVE A REPORT FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT IN A WEEK.
NHTSA complaint #11175729 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 132,000 milesMarietta, GAFire
ENGINE
MY LEXUS LS460 SPONTANEOUSLY STARTED ON FIRE IN A PUBLIC PARKING LOT. NO WARNING LIGHTS ,NO KNOWN CAR PROBLEMS. I HAD PARKED MY CAR TO RUN INTO A STORE. WHEN I TURNED IT OFF IT MADE A LOUD REPETITIVE CLACKING SOUND. I TURNED IT BACK ON AND TURNED IT OFF AGAIN. SAME THING. I TURNED IT BACK ON AND TRIED TO BACK UP BUT IT STALLED. STARTED TO SMELL... SOMETHING WAS BURNING AND SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE UNDER THE HOOD. BECAME VERY CLEAR THAT THE ENGINE WAS ON FIRE. I CALLED 911 AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDED. AFTERWARDS, I ASKED THEM IF THEY COULD TELL HOW IT STARTED ...THEY SAID NO BUT IT WAS ELECTRICAL. I WILL HAVE A REPORT FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT IN A WEEK.
NHTSA complaint #11175729 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Lanham, MD
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
this vehicle stalled while driving on a highway without any sign or warning. on some occasions the vehicle will not stop. I reported this to Lexus company / Manufacturer
NHTSA complaint #11735714 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lanham, MD
ENGINE
this vehicle stalled while driving on a highway without any sign or warning. on some occasions the vehicle will not stop. I reported this to Lexus company / Manufacturer
NHTSA complaint #11735714 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lanham, MD
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
this vehicle stalled while driving on a highway without any sign or warning. on some occasions the vehicle will not stop. I reported this to Lexus company / Manufacturer
NHTSA complaint #11735714 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Austin, TX
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Purchased a used 2008 Lexus LS460 and within about two hours the vehicle abruptly and completely shut down while driving in traffic, with no warning and no practical ability to predict the failure or safely pull off the road. Near collisions were narrowly avoided only because other drivers swerved or slammed on brakes. At the time of purchase there were no warning lights illuminated, but immediately after the shutdown multiple warning lights illuminated (including brake/ABS/stability-related warnings as documented by an independent service center). The vehicle was inspected the next day by an independent service center, which documented multiple diagnostic trouble codes across major systems and stated that repairs would be in the thousands and not recommended. The inspection also noted indications consistent with diagnostic codes having been cleared prior to purchase, and the battery at inspection could not hold a charge aiding the clearing of codes. The vehicle had no functional exhaust system (mufflers cut off), creating a carbon monoxide exposure risk that was only mitigated because the driver had the windows down unknowingly to the leak. The service center also reported tires beyond safe wear limits that were not readily visible without lifting the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request and has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance.
NHTSA complaint #11710943 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Los Angeles, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
I am speaking on behalf of my [XXX] mother who owns the car. Summarily, we took the car to two Lexus Service Repair shops (i.e. one in Glendale and one in Longo, El Monte). On [XXX], we the brake and tire sensor lights came on. We first took it to Lexus of Glendale. The diagnosis and estimate was to cover these items: tire sensors, brake sensor, brake pads, air filters, oil change, and nav system to fix the defrost buttons, the DVD software for the nav system, and anything that would cause the brake/ABS emergency light and tire pressure lights to come on. Prior to that, we replaced all 4 tires, upper and lower suspension arms, air filters, fuses, alignment, etc. Both lights (tire sensors and brake lights in the dashboard came on the last week of January 2025. The total cost was $4200.00. Then the same day my mom rolled over a speed bump, and the tire sensor lights came on. She went back and they did not replace the tire sensor lights and we opened up a case on this issue. Then a day later, the brake light and ABS light came on. After a couple of days of that, the brakes would lock up before she turned on the ignition. We filed a complaint with Department of Consumer Affairs, BAR. We scheduled an appointment with Lexus of Longo. Mr. Lam said it could be the actuator and it would cost $4200.00 because we missed this 2017 warranty. I told him we never received any letter from Lexus's CSP warranty program on the brake actuator. And instead, we only received leather interiors or glove compartment interiors. I asked if I could take a photo of this warranty. He allowed me to. Today, after the diagnosis, he said he would charge us $3000.00 for the actuator. I am wondering if you could intervene and have Lexus cover this warranty for my senior mother. She does not have money to buy a new car right now, nor can she learn the new technology on the new cars. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11654219 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New York, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I was on the exit for union turnpike on the gcp at a good 40 miles per hour when boom a whole bunch of lights popped up on the dash saying see dealer and 3 lights come on the top right. By the grace of god the car infront of me was very far and i was able to drop the car into manual mode drop gears while turning wheels slowly go into bumps and i slowed down when i came around the corner to a full stop that’s when i had my tow guy grab the car and drop me and the car home
NHTSA complaint #11631686 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New York, NY
SERVICE BRAKES
I was on the exit for union turnpike on the gcp at a good 40 miles per hour when boom a whole bunch of lights popped up on the dash saying see dealer and 3 lights come on the top right. By the grace of god the car infront of me was very far and i was able to drop the car into manual mode drop gears while turning wheels slowly go into bumps and i slowed down when i came around the corner to a full stop that’s when i had my tow guy grab the car and drop me and the car home
NHTSA complaint #11631686 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lanham, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding the negligence and lack of accountability demonstrated by Lexus Manufacturer in addressing a serious and persistent brake issue in my vehicle, which directly threatens my safety and that of others on the road. Despite repeated attempts to resolve this matter, Lexus has failed to provide a lasting solution or accept responsibility for this critical defect. I have taken my vehicle to multiple authorized dealers, all of whom confirmed the issue and recommended contacting the manufacturer. Following this advice, I reached out to Lexus Manufacturer directly, only to be met with evasive responses, deflection, and an utter lack of action. Issue Description The brakes on my vehicle have consistently failed to function as expected, even after repairs performed by Lexus-certified dealers. This suggests either a fundamental defect in the braking system or inadequate repair protocols by the manufacturer’s representatives. Such a failure in an essential safety system puts me, my passengers, and others on the road in imminent danger. Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act (49 U.S.C. Chapter 301), manufacturers are legally obligated to ensure that their vehicles meet safety standards and to address any defects that pose a risk to public safety. Lexus's failure to rectify this issue or initiate a recall contravenes these obligations. Furthermore, the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) outlines specific performance requirements for braking systems (FMVSS No. 105 and FMVSS No. 135 for hydraulic and electric brakes, respectively). Lexus's apparent inability or unwillingness to ensure compliance with these standards raises serious questions about its commitment to safety. Evidence: Enclosed with this complaint are: Correspondence with Lexus Manufacturer, documenting my attempts to seek resolution.
NHTSA complaint #11627870 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lanham, MD
SERVICE BRAKES
I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding the negligence and lack of accountability demonstrated by Lexus Manufacturer in addressing a serious and persistent brake issue in my vehicle, which directly threatens my safety and that of others on the road. Despite repeated attempts to resolve this matter, Lexus has failed to provide a lasting solution or accept responsibility for this critical defect. I have taken my vehicle to multiple authorized dealers, all of whom confirmed the issue and recommended contacting the manufacturer. Following this advice, I reached out to Lexus Manufacturer directly, only to be met with evasive responses, deflection, and an utter lack of action. Issue Description The brakes on my vehicle have consistently failed to function as expected, even after repairs performed by Lexus-certified dealers. This suggests either a fundamental defect in the braking system or inadequate repair protocols by the manufacturer’s representatives. Such a failure in an essential safety system puts me, my passengers, and others on the road in imminent danger. Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act (49 U.S.C. Chapter 301), manufacturers are legally obligated to ensure that their vehicles meet safety standards and to address any defects that pose a risk to public safety. Lexus's failure to rectify this issue or initiate a recall contravenes these obligations. Furthermore, the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) outlines specific performance requirements for braking systems (FMVSS No. 105 and FMVSS No. 135 for hydraulic and electric brakes, respectively). Lexus's apparent inability or unwillingness to ensure compliance with these standards raises serious questions about its commitment to safety. Evidence: Enclosed with this complaint are: Correspondence with Lexus Manufacturer, documenting my attempts to seek resolution.
NHTSA complaint #11627870 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 126,000 milesNewport Beach, CA
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT
The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle and depressing the brake pedal, there was a knocking and ticking sound coming from the brakes. Additionally, the brake light, traction control light, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The ABS, Brakes, and VSC messages were displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the brake actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under Extended Warranty Coverage for the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 126,000.
NHTSA complaint #11595461 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 126,000 milesNewport Beach, CA
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle and depressing the brake pedal, there was a knocking and ticking sound coming from the brakes. Additionally, the brake light, traction control light, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The ABS, Brakes, and VSC messages were displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the brake actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under Extended Warranty Coverage for the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 126,000.
NHTSA complaint #11595461 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 126,000 milesNewport Beach, CA
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle and depressing the brake pedal, there was a knocking and ticking sound coming from the brakes. Additionally, the brake light, traction control light, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The ABS, Brakes, and VSC messages were displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the brake actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under Extended Warranty Coverage for the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 126,000.
NHTSA complaint #11595461 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 58,000 milesMelbourne, FL
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the braking system malfunctioned, and the brake pedal extended to the floorboard while depressed, causing the braking distance to be extended. The vehicle was towed to the local mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the ABS actuator and brake pump were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 58,000.
NHTSA complaint #11586492 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Little Elm, TX
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
the interior is malting and give a bad smell ( strong preform ), which effect breathing
NHTSA complaint #11581841 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Baltimore, MD
SERVICE BRAKES
These Vehicles have a ongoing problem with the brake actuator. Lexus I'm sure Is aware of the problem I believe they should take care of it. It's a really expensive fix that we as customers shouldn't have to be responsible for. This issue makes driving the vehicle very uncomfortable.
NHTSA complaint #11578748 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 57,000 milesMelbourne, FL
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:ELECTRIC:SOLENOID/ACTUATOR
The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while driving out of the driveway, the brakes became inoperable. There was a loud audible sound detected. The message to replace actuator was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the brake actuator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who replaced the actuator. The manufacturer was contacted, and opened a case, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.
NHTSA complaint #11571825 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 211,000 milesMc Leansville, NC
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the brake warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the brake actuator. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Warranty Enhancement Program: POL 16-01. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 211,000.
NHTSA complaint #11559787 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Augusta, GA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Dash board sticky and cracking. Dash feels like glue is on it and getting worst.
NHTSA complaint #11490990 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesTequesta, FL
SERVICE BRAKES
The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but failed to stop the vehicle. The contact drove the vehicle off the roadway onto a grassy shoulder to slow the vehicle to prevent a crash. The contact then called the dealer and was advised to enter a code in the vehicle and drive slowly to the dealer. After arriving at the dealer and having the vehicle diagnosed, the contact was informed that the brake actuator and assembly needed to be replaced; however, the repair would be an out of pocket expense. The manufacturer was contacted and provided her with a loaner vehicle however, it was stated that she still had to pay for the vehicle to be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 90,000.
NHTSA complaint #11457239 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Murfreesboro, TN
ENGINE
Hello, For over 2 years now, I have had to get oil added to my vehicle multiple times (estimated 2-3 times after my regular interval oil change of 5,000 miles. I get the warning message from the engine stating low oil. I have taken my vehicle to a Lexus dealership, Lexus of Huntsville, AL to try and see what the problem is as this keeps happening and is an ongoing problem. I was informed no oil leak, but there is an internal problem in my opinion. I believe this is a safety defect as my engine could have major problems and possibly cause a fire, or harm to anyone in the vehicle. Also, I have spent additional money (estimated over $500.00 to get oil added in the amount of 2-3 quarts multiple times per every 5,000 mile oil change. I have recently called Lexus corporate (est 10 Jan 2022) and I getting no where as they asked me to go to the Lexus dealer and have it checked, but I have already done this a few times already with no success in fixing the problem. I believe the lack of oil is causing internal damage to my engine or some other possible major problem. The action I would like completed by Lexus would be to repair this problem at their own cost. I have over 179,915 miles on my vehicle now and want to continue to keep for a longer period of time. See some of my previous attached service history to see when the problem started. Thank you for your assistance on this matter.
NHTSA complaint #11447659 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sun Lakes, AZ
SERVICE BRAKES
Parking Break was stuck on and would not release. Owner removed spare tire and loosened parking break system, but light was still flashing. Dealer check for code and reset. The same thing happened again and the Dealer has started they’ve installed a new relay and if happens again it will be very expensive to fix. I feel this should be listed as a recall. This issue should be repaired by as the car is low mileage and has always been kept in a garage. Please review. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11446076 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pensacola, FL
POWER TRAIN
Car doesn’t run probably. Seat are getting ripped
NHTSA complaint #11433150 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pensacola, FL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Car doesn’t run probably. Seat are getting ripped
NHTSA complaint #11433150 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pensacola, FL
SUSPENSION
Car doesn’t run probably. Seat are getting ripped
NHTSA complaint #11433150 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Summerton, SC
SERVICE BRAKES
WHEN PRESSING THE BRAKE PADDLE, I GET A CLICKING NOISES FROM THE BRAKES. HAPPY HE ONLY HAS 80,000 MILES. DON'T KNOW IF WAS IN THE ORIGINAL RECALL FROM LEXUS BUT FOR THE COST OF A REPAIR THAT THEY KNEW WAS GOING TO. E A PROBLEM THEY SHOULD ALL REPAIRS. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND I BELIEVE LEXUS SHOULD HAVE FULL RESPONSIBILITY.
NHTSA complaint #11406830 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.