How long will a Lexus LS 500 last?
With prudent maintenance, the Lexus LS 500 is capable of lasting 200,000 miles or more, and many owners report hitting 250,000 miles or higher with regular care.
The LS 500, a full-size luxury sedan introduced with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 and a 10-speed automatic, is built on Lexus’ reputation for durability. However, actual lifespan depends on upkeep, driving style, climate, and how diligently issues are addressed as they arise. The following sections explore longevity in detail and offer practical guidance for maximizing the car’s service life.
Factors that affect longevity
Several variables influence how long the LS 500 will run reliably. The most impactful ones are maintenance discipline, driving conditions, and environmental factors. Below are the key elements to consider.
- Maintenance quality and adherence to the recommended service schedule
- Driving habits, including highway cruising versus frequent stop-and-go city driving
- Climate and road conditions, such as temperature extremes and road salt exposure
- Timely attention to wear items (tires, brakes, suspension components) and electronics
- Use of quality parts and trained technicians familiar with Lexus vehicles
- History of recalls and any prior repairs that affect long-term reliability
In short, consistent, proactive care and sensible driving are the biggest factors in achieving a long, trouble-free life for the LS 500.
Maintenance practices to maximize lifespan
To push the LS 500 toward higher mileages, follow these maintenance practices:
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including synthetic oil changes and filter replacements
- Use high-quality, OEM-recommended parts and fluids for all service intervals
- Keep the transmission and engine cooling systems in good condition with timely fluid checks and changes
- Perform regular brake inspections, and replace pads, rotors, and fluids as needed
- Monitor suspension, steering, and alignment; address worn components promptly
- Schedule routine inspections for electrical systems, sensors, and infotainment software updates
- Address recalls and service campaigns promptly to maintain safety and reliability
- Maintain the battery and electrical charging systems to avoid unexpected failures
When you pair disciplined maintenance with careful driving, the LS 500’s durability tends to translate into long-term reliability and predictable ownership costs relative to its luxury segment.
Real-world ownership experiences
What owners report about longevity offers practical context beyond specifications. The following summarizes common themes from long-term owners of the LS 500 family.
- Most owners who maintain the car regularly report reaching 200,000 miles or more without major mechanical failures.
- A subset of drivers note 250,000 miles or higher, especially with highway-heavy use and meticulous service records.
- Electrical and infotainment glitches may occur, typically resolved through software updates or standard maintenance; these do not usually compromise core drivetrain reliability.
- Repair and maintenance costs tend to be higher than average, but the frequency of major failures is relatively low when the vehicle is well cared for.
- Market data and owner sentiment generally show strong satisfaction with long-term durability, reinforcing the LS 500’s reputation as a durable luxury sedan.
Model year differences can exist due to refinements and updates; however, the overall message from owners is consistent: with proper care, the LS 500 can be a steadfast long-haul vehicle rather than a short-term luxury expense.
Warranty and ownership considerations
Understanding the warranty and maintenance coverage can affect the total cost of ownership and the likelihood of keeping the car longer. In many markets, Lexus offers a standard new-car warranty that covers basic and powertrain components for several years or miles, with variations by region. Extended service plans and maintenance coverage can also influence long-term ownership decisions and budgeting for high-mileage use.
Prospective buyers and current owners should consult their local Lexus dealer for the exact terms applicable to their vehicle and location, as programs evolve over time.
Summary
The Lexus LS 500 has a strong track record for longevity when it's properly cared for. A well-maintained LS 500 can reliably reach the 200,000-mile milestone and often surpass 250,000 miles, with some owners reporting even longer life. The most reliable path to a long life is diligent maintenance, sensible driving, and timely addressing of any issues as they arise. While maintenance costs for a luxury sedan are higher than average, the potential for a durable, comfortable long-term ownership experience remains a compelling aspect of the LS 500’s value proposition.
What is the best year of the LS500?
The 2020 Lexus LS 500 is our top pick for the best model year value for the LS 500. With the 2020, you would only pay, on average, 47% of the price as new, with 58% of the vehicle's useful life remaining. The 2021 and 2019 model years are also attractive years for the LS 500, and provide a relatively good value.
Is the Lexus LS 500 expensive to maintain?
A Lexus LS 500 will cost about $6,661 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury sedan models by $3,029. There is also a 15.63% chance that a LS 500 will require a major repair during that time.
Are Lexus reliable after 100k miles?
Yes, Lexus vehicles are generally very reliable after 100,000 miles, often lasting well over 200,000 to 300,000 miles, especially with proper and regular maintenance. Because they are built on Toyota's reputation for dependability, they maintain high performance and longevity, though owners should anticipate potential repairs like timing belt replacements or sensor issues as the car ages.
Factors contributing to Lexus reliability past 100k miles
- Strong engineering: Lexus cars benefit from high-quality engineering and rigorous testing, contributing to their long lifespan.
- Toyota heritage: As a luxury division of Toyota, Lexus inherits the brand's reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles.
- Owner reports: Many owners report that their Lexus vehicles continue to drive smoothly and quietly even after passing the 100,000-mile mark.
- Maintenance is key: Regular maintenance is crucial for longevity. Consistent oil changes, filter replacements, and other checks are essential to keep the car running well past 100,000 miles.
What to expect with high-mileage Lexus vehicles
- Potential for repairs: While reliable, high-mileage Lexus models may eventually require more significant and potentially costly repairs, such as replacing a timing belt or certain sensors.
- Varying model durability: The reliability can vary by model. For example, specific older models like the LS 430 and the LX/GX SUVs are often cited as particularly long-lasting, says this YouTube video.
- High cost of ownership: The average annual repair cost for a Lexus is slightly above average compared to other brands, so plan for higher ownership costs as the vehicle accumulates miles.
How many miles is a Lexus LS good for?
between 250,000 to 300,000 miles
Most Lexus vehicles can last between 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more with routine oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely part replacements.
