How much is a new transmission for a Lexus IS350?

A brand-new OEM transmission for a Lexus IS350 typically costs about $3,500–$5,500 for the part, with installed prices generally ranging from roughly $4,500–$7,500 depending on labor rates, region, and the model year. This article breaks down the price components and factors that influence what you’ll pay.

Understanding the cost means considering whether you’re buying a factory-new unit or a remanufactured one, which shop does the installation, and what ancillary services are included (fluids, seals, sensors, and any software updates). Prices can vary significantly by year, location, and whether you go through a Lexus dealer or an independent auto shop.

What you should expect to pay for a new OEM transmission

Below are the typical price components for a brand-newOEM transmission and its installation. The figures are approximate ranges common in the U.S. market as of 2024–2025 and can vary by model year and supplier.

• Part price (new OEM transmission): $3,500–$5,500


• Labor and shop supplies (installation): $1,000–$2,000


• Total installed price (parts + labor): $4,500–$7,500

In most cases, the total installed price will fall within this broad range, but actual numbers can be higher if dealer labor rates are used or if additional parts and updates are needed during installation.

Factors that affect the final price

Before the list, here is a quick note on the variables that commonly change what you’ll pay for a new transmission and installation.

• Model year and transmission variant: Different IS350 generations may use different transmission codes or parts compatibility, affecting availability and price.


• Dealer vs. independent shop: Dealers tend to have higher labor rates but may include factory-certified service and OEM parts; independents can be cheaper but vary by technician experience.


• Warranty and service packages: A longer warranty on the transmission or installation can raise upfront costs but may save money over time.


• Part choice: New OEM vs. remanufactured vs. used; a remanufactured transmission can be substantially cheaper but comes with different warranty terms and risk profiles.


• Extra components and services: Fluids, new seals, torque converter, transmission cooler lines, mounting hardware, and software updates can add to the bill.


• Location and taxes: Regional labor rates and sales tax can shift the final price, especially in areas with high cost of living or automotive service demand.

Understanding these factors helps you compare quotes more effectively and decide which option best balances cost and reliability for your IS350.

Alternative options to save money

If price is a major consideration, there are alternatives to a brand-new OEM transmission. Each option carries its own trade-offs in warranty and reliability.

• Remanufactured/rebuilt transmission: Typically $2,500–$4,500 for the part, plus labor. This can be significantly cheaper than a new OEM unit but may come with shorter or different warranties.


• Used transmission with limited warranty: Often $1,500–$3,500 depending on mileage and condition; riskier in terms of longevity and compatibility.

These options can reduce upfront costs, but it’s important to verify the warranty terms, get a detailed inspection, and understand the potential risk of future failures.

Summary

Replacing a Lexus IS350’s transmission with a brand-new OEM unit is a substantial investment. Expect part costs in the mid to upper thousands of dollars and installed prices commonly in the range of roughly $4,500 to $7,500, depending on year, location, and shop. Shopping around for quotes, weighing warranties, and considering remanufactured or used alternatives can help you balance cost with long-term reliability. Always confirm exact pricing with the dealer or shop before authorizing work.

Is it worth replacing a transmission?

Whether replacing a transmission is worth it depends on a cost-benefit analysis of the vehicle's age, its total value, the cost of the replacement, and your own plans for the car. If the repair cost is less than 30-40% of the car's current value, or if you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacement may be a good investment. However, if the car is older and has other issues, or if the replacement cost is close to or exceeds the car's worth, it may be better to consider selling the vehicle. 
Factors to consider 
This video explains the factors to consider when deciding whether to replace your car's transmission: 42sNexologyYouTube · Sep 4, 2025

• Vehicle's value: Compare the cost of replacement to the car's current market value. If the repair is more than 30-40% of the car's worth, it may not be a good financial decision. 
• Vehicle's condition: If the rest of the car is in good condition with no major issues, a transmission replacement can be a worthwhile investment. However, if the car has many other problems, it may be better to cut your losses. 
• Your plans for the car: If you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacing the transmission is more likely to be worth the cost. If you only plan to keep it for a year or two, it may not be. 
• Cost of the replacement: Costs can range from $1,500 to over $8,000, depending on the vehicle and the type of transmission (new, rebuilt, or used). Be sure to factor in labor costs as well. 
• Reliability of the model: Some car models have a history of transmission problems, which may make replacement less desirable. 

Options for replacement

• New transmission: This is often the most expensive option, but it comes with a new warranty. 
• Remanufactured transmission: A remanufactured unit has been rebuilt to "as-new" condition and often comes with a good warranty, making it a solid choice. 
• Used transmission: This is the cheapest option but comes with the highest risk, as you don't know its history. It is generally not recommended unless you can test it first. 

What are the common problems with the IS350?

Common problems with the Lexus IS350 include fuel pump failures, steering system issues, and problems with emissions control systems. Other issues can include dashboard melting, discolored interior rearview mirrors, check engine lights, and potential problems with hard starting or the navigation system. 
Recalls and major issues

• Fuel pump failures: A specific recall addressed a failure in the low-pressure fuel pump that could cause the engine to stall while driving.
• Steering failures: Some models have experienced power steering failure.
• Takata airbag recalls: Like many other vehicles, some IS350s were subject to recalls for faulty Takata airbags. 

Common complaints and minor issues

• Dashboard melting: Some owners report that the dashboard surface can become discolored or "melt".
• Discolored rearview mirror: The inside rearview mirror may develop discoloration. 
• Check engine light: Various issues, such as problems with the emissions control system or catalytic converter, can trigger the check engine light. 
• Hard starting: Some models may experience hard starting issues that can sometimes be corrected with updated PCM software. 
• Fuel economy: Some owners find the fuel economy to be lower than expected. 
• Road noise: Certain model years have been noted for having excessive road noise. 

Other potential problems

• Brake dust: The brakes can produce a significant amount of dust. 
• Navigation system: Some problems with the navigation system can be resolved with a new map disc. 

How much is a transmission for a Lexus IS350?

Lexus IS 350 Transmission Cost
The cost of a new Lexus IS 350 transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the car, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are greatly less expensive, in some cases costing less than $150.

How much is a new transmission for a Lexus?

Lexus Transmission Cost
The cost of a new Lexus transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the vehicle, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less expensive, in some cases costing less than $150.