Updated October 2026
Lexus vehicles are known for being luxurious, comfortable and sleek, but while these modern cars are certainly sought-after, they aren’t immune to owner complaints. As with any vehicle, Lexus cars certainly have their problems over the course of their lifespan, and some are more common than others. From oil and water leaks to problems with the sensors and cracking dashboards, we’re taking a look at some of the most common problems reported by Lexus owners.
Oil Leaks
Oil leaks seem to be an issue that plagues a huge number of vehicles UK-wide at some point throughout a car’s life. However, many Lexus owners are reportedly experiencing leak issues as early as 8,000 miles into the car’s life. The Lexus RX 350 has been reported by GetJerry as having a “propensity to leak oil from the engine”, which “primarily affects those between 2007 and 2015”. If not caught quickly, or if left unrepaired, oil leaks can be costly and cause significant damage to the engine and components. Getting your car booked in for regular servicing and keeping an eye on the quality and level of your oil can help you catch problems before they get any worse.
Water Leaks
Water leaking into the car’s cabin also appears to be a commonly reported issue when it comes to Lexus cars, particularly in those with sun or moonroof areas. Medium.com reported that “defects or wear around the edges of these roof features can lead to water seeping into the vehicle” which, when left unchecked, can lead to corrosion, mould, damp and other potentially dangerous issues. Rust can build up, and the electrics may be put at risk. This issue typically occurs around 20,000 – 30,000 miles but is worth keeping an eye on throughout the car’s entire lifespan to ensure it’s caught before rust can form.
Power Steering leaks
Another problem with leaking – Medium also reported that Lexus vehicles can be prone to developing leaks within the power steering system. Over time, the components within the system can wear down and gradually reach a point where loose fittings at connection points can lead to cracks and leaks throughout the hoses. This kind of damage can be costly to repair if not kept on top of, so it’s best to ensure you are having your Lexus checked and serviced regularly to prevent any irreversible issues.
Sensor Problems
Cars are becoming more and more technologically advanced but with more and more tech comes more opportunities for things to go wrong. For Lexus, reports claim that this manifests in issues with the car’s sensors. MotorAndWheels states that older models, such as the Lexus IS 250, have “O2 sensors [that] are prone to failure.”. These sensors, when faulty, can cause issues with the performance of the vehicle and should be seen to as soon as possible. Our team can run full diagnostics and act accordingly to get your Lexus up and running as soon as possible.
Cracking Dashboard
Plastic can be brittle and prone to cracking, but the last thing any of us want to see in our vehicles is cracks on our dashboard. Lexus are known for their luxurious, stylish vehicles and a crack along the dashboard certainly doesn’t lend itself to that sleek finish. According to research, the PVC may be reacting to UV and heat exposure and cracking prematurely.
If you own a Lexus and are unsure of what to keep an eye out for, or you’re in need of Lexus repairs, we are on hand to help. Simply get in touch with a member of our team to book your vehicle in with us, today.
Lexus Hybrid Gearbox Problems
Most modern Lexus models, including the CT 200h, IS 300h, NX 300h and RX 450h, use an e-CVT hybrid transmission rather than a conventional automatic. Unlike a standard CVT, it has no belt or clutches to wear out, so outright failures are uncommon. When problems do appear, they tend to show up as:
- Hybrid system warning lights, often triggered by electrical faults rather than the gearbox itself
- Whining or humming that gets louder as the car speeds up
- Hesitation or loss of drive, sometimes after the car enters a reduced-power mode
A weak 12V battery is a common cause of warning lights and odd behaviour on Lexus hybrids, so it’s worth ruling that out first. Older non-hybrid models, such as the IS 250, use a conventional automatic gearbox, which can suffer from harsh shifts or slipping as the fluid ages.
FAQs
Are Lexus cars reliable?
Lexus cars are generally among the most reliable on the road. In What Car?’s reliability survey, the Lexus CT scored 99.2% and the 2013–2021 IS scored 97.7%. The 2009–2016 RX scored lower, at 61.6%, mainly because of 12V battery and suspension faults.
What problems does the Lexus RX have?
The most reported Lexus RX problems are oil leaks, mainly on 2007–2015 models, 12V battery failures and suspension faults. Hybrid RX 450h models can also show hybrid system warnings, which are often caused by a weak 12V battery.
Do Lexus hybrid gearboxes have problems?
Lexus hybrid gearboxes are generally very reliable because the e-CVT has no belt or clutches to wear out. Faults are uncommon, but whining, hesitation or hybrid system warning lights should be checked by a specialist.
What are the common problems with the Lexus LM?
The Lexus LM luxury MPV only went on sale in the UK in late 2023, so there’s not yet enough ownership data to identify common faults. It uses Lexus’s proven self-charging hybrid system, which has a strong reliability record in other models.