How long will a 2009 IS350 last?

Typically, with regular maintenance, a 2009 IS 350 can reach 200,000 miles or more, and many owners report seeing 250,000 miles or higher with proper care.

To understand the question in more detail, it helps to consider the car’s underlying design, how it’s been maintained, and the conditions in which it’s been driven. The 2009 IS 350 is built on Lexus/Toyota reliability foundations, but its longevity depends on routine care, driving style, climate, and prior ownership history.

What influences an IS 350’s lifespan

Several factors determine how far a 2009 IS 350 will go. The following factors tend to have the largest impact on long-term durability:

• Maintenance adherence: regular oil changes, fluid replacements, filter changes, and timely repairs.


• Driving conditions: steady highway cruising generally causes less wear than frequent city stop-and-go or heavy towing.


• Climate and exposure: extreme heat, cold, or road salt can accelerate wear on seals, cooling systems, and undercarriage components.


• Quality of parts and shop history: using OEM or equivalent parts and a record of professional service helps longevity.


• Previous accidents or body/floor damage: structural integrity and drivetrain alignment can affect long-term reliability.


• Record of major repairs: known issues addressed proactively (engine, transmission, cooling) reduce risk of cascading failures.

In practice, owners who maintain regular service schedules and address problems promptly tend to see higher mileage without major reliability setbacks.

Engine and drivetrain durability

The 2009 IS 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FSE) with a timing chain and a six-speed automatic transmission. The design emphasizes longevity, but mileage and care patterns matter just as much as the hardware.

Engine design and durability

The 2GR-FSE V6 is widely regarded for durability when oil and fluids are kept up to date. Because it uses a timing chain rather than a belt, routine chain replacement isn’t required, though tensioners and guides can wear after many miles and should be inspected if you hear unusual rattle or noise from the engine bay.

Transmission and drivetrain considerations

The factory six-speed automatic (often paired with all-wheel drive in some trims) is generally reliable, but transmission behavior can degrade with high mileage if lubrication and service were neglected. Smooth shifts and proper fluid levels are good indicators of continued longevity.

Before buying or continuing to operate past the 150,000–200,000 mile range, listening for transmission chatter, hard shifts, or slipping and ensuring fluid changes were performed at recommended intervals can signaling ongoing reliability.

Overall, the drivetrain’s durability hinges on consistent service and addressing issues early, rather than waiting for failure signs to escalate.

Maintenance patterns that extend life

Keeping a 2009 IS 350 on the road for many years requires disciplined maintenance and attentive care. The following practices are commonly associated with longer life:

• Sticking to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil, fluids, filters, and spark plugs.


• Regular inspections of cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump) to prevent overheating.


• Routine checks for oil leaks and timely gasket or seal replacements when needed.


• Monitoring the transmission’s performance and ensuring timely fluid changes if applicable.


• Wear item replacements (brakes, suspension components, tires) to avoid abnormal drivetrain stress.

By following these practices, many IS 350 owners report years of dependable service beyond the 200k-mile mark.

Common issues to watch for in high-mileage examples

As the vehicle ages, some components are more likely to require attention. Being aware of these can help maintain reliability and plan budgets for potential repairs.

• Oil leaks from valve covers, rear main seal, or oil pan gaskets.


• Cooling system wear, including radiator hoses and water pump wear, which can lead to overheating if neglected.


• Transmission wear in older automatics, which may manifest as shifting irregularities or longer cold-start delays.


• Suspension and steering wear, including bushings, control arms, and wheel bearings, which affect ride quality and handling.


• Electrical sensor aging and software updates that can affect ABS, infotainment, and other systems.

Addressing these issues promptly and keeping a detailed service history is key to maintaining long-term reliability.

Buying a used 2009 IS 350: what to check

A thorough pre-purchase inspection can reveal the car’s true condition and likely future maintenance needs. Focus on service history, evidence of regular fluid changes, and any history of chain/tensioner concerns or cooling-system work.

Pre-purchase inspection tips

When evaluating a candidate: verify maintenance records, confirm there is documentation of fluid changes, check for signs of oil leaks, test drive for smooth transmission operation, and inspect the cooling system. For AWD models, verify proper differential service and no unusual noises in the drivetrain. A professional PPI can identify issues not obvious during a casual inspection.

• Comprehensive service records showing regular oil changes and fluid replacements.


• Evidence of timing chain/tensioner inspection or service if previously addressed.


• Signs of oil or coolant leaks and their sources.


• Condition of brakes, tires, suspension components, and steering linkage.


• Underbody rust or damage, especially in regions with road salt exposure.

With careful selection and a good maintenance history, a 2009 IS 350 can remain a capable and enjoyable luxury-sedan option for many more miles.

Summary

Bottom line: a 2009 Lexus IS 350 can last for a long time—often 200,000 miles or more, with many examples reaching 250,000 miles or higher—when properly maintained. The key is consistent service, prompt repair of issues, and a well-documented maintenance history. Potential buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection to confirm the vehicle’s condition and ongoing maintenance needs.

Is 2009 a good year for Lexus?

The 2009 year is a great model for the Lexus SUV but for 18k, you can get a 2019 for 18k. This Lexus if taking care of will last up to 250k or longer. Lastly, this vehicle is out of it 5 year Warranty regardless of low miles.

How many miles does a Lexus IS 350 last?

A Lexus IS350 can last well over 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting reaching 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Key factors for longevity include following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, performing regular oil changes, using high-quality parts, and adopting good driving habits.
 
Factors influencing lifespan

• Maintenance is key: Sticking to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule is crucial. This includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks. 
• High-mileage parts: After 100,000 miles, some components like the water pump, alternator, and shock absorbers may need attention. Addressing these issues promptly will help prevent more significant problems. 
• Driving habits: Gentle driving, avoiding harsh braking, and being mindful of road conditions can help extend the vehicle's life. 
• Use the right parts: Using genuine OEM parts for repairs and replacements can contribute to the car's longevity. 

What to watch for at high mileage

• Potential issues: With high mileage, you may encounter issues like worn suspension components or the need for a water pump replacement.
• Preventative measures: Consider replacing the rubber oil cooler line with a metal one as a preventative measure.
• Service history: When buying a used IS350, check the service history for things like transmission and differential fluid changes. 

Is 2009 Lexus IS350 reliable?

The 2009 Lexus IS 350 is a reliable car, with high scores for reliability from both professional reviewers and owners. While it has some common issues like potential charging system problems and occasional grinding noises from the engine, these are often fixable and are outweighed by its overall strong performance and long-term durability.
 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems of Lexus IS (2nd-gen): 59sReDrivenYouTube · Jan 14, 2024
What makes the 2009 Lexus IS 350 reliable

• High Reliability Ratings: The 2009 IS 350 consistently receives high scores, often 4.0 or higher out of 5.0, and ranks well among luxury midsize cars. 
• Strong Owner Sentiment: A high percentage of owners recommend the vehicle, citing its quality and reliability as major strengths. 
• Good Value: While initial purchase price may be a factor, owners report that the vehicle is a good value over the long term due to its durability. 
• Good Performance: Reviewers praise the car's performance and handling, contributing to its overall positive ownership experience. 

Common issues and considerations

• Charging System: The charging system, including the alternator and battery, can be sensitive. A common roadside issue is alternator failure. It is not recommended to jump-start the car; slow charging is preferable. 
• Engine Noise: A grinding noise on cold startup can occur due to a cam gear problem, though this was addressed by a recall. 
• Engine Oil Leaks: The VVT oil line can burst and leak oil, and the timing cover is also prone to oil leaks. These leaks may require engine removal for a proper seal. 
• Navigation System: Some models may experience navigation system problems, which can often be corrected by a new map disc. 
• Hard Starting: A software update for the PCM is available to address hard starting issues. 

How reliable is the Lexus IS 350 engine?

The Lexus IS350 Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $543 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. While repairs are more common, these issues are less likely to be severe than with other cars.