How to tell if Lexus IS250 is AWD or RWD?
The Lexus IS250 can be either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) depending on the model and year. The easiest way to tell is to look for AWD badges, inspect the drivetrain layout under the car, or verify the VIN/window sticker.
How to tell from the outside
Use these exterior and undercarriage cues to determine whether your IS250 uses AWD or RWD.
Exterior badges and model identifiers
Look for any official drivetrain badges on the vehicle. Common signs include:
- AWD badge on the rear trunk lid or near the IS 250 badge.
- Some markets label the model as “IS 250 AWD” on the trunk lid; others may omit explicit drivetrain badges.
- In the absence of a clear AWD badge, you’ll need other tests to confirm the drivetrain.
Exterior badges are helpful, but not always definitive, so proceed to additional checks if the badge isn’t present or legible.
Undercarriage indicators
A quick look underneath the car can reveal the drivetrain layout:
- A driveshaft running from the transmission to a rear differential indicates AWD.
- A visible rear differential and a center transfer housing are typical of AWD models.
- RWD models typically show a rear differential but lack the driveshafts and transfer components that connect to the front wheels.
Note: Never crawl underneath a car without proper safety equipment or a lift. If you’re unsure, have a professional verify the drivetrain.
VIN and documentation checks
Official records can confirm whether the IS250 is AWD or RWD when badge visibility is unclear.
- Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in the windshield or door jamb and use a reputable decoder to view drivetrain details, looking for explicit AWD/RWD information.
- Obtain the Monroney window sticker or the original dealer invoice; it will list the drivetrain option as AWD or RWD.
- Review the owner's manual or service history; some records note the AWD system or related maintenance.
If the VIN decoder or window sticker doesn’t clearly spell out the drivetrain, verify with the dealer or original documentation to confirm.
Model-year and regional availability
Drivetrain availability for the IS250 varied by market and year. Understanding these nuances helps avoid confusion when shopping or verifying a used car.
- AWD was offered as an option on many IS250 models in several markets, but not every year or trim included AWD.
- Always check the specific model year and local market to know if AWD was a factory option for that vehicle.
In practice, combining exterior badges, undercarriage inspection, and official documentation provides the most reliable determination of whether a given IS250 is AWD or RWD.
Summary
The IS250 is available in both RWD and AWD configurations. To determine which your car uses, inspect for AWD badges, look for a driveshaft and rear differential beneath the vehicle, and verify the drivetrain through the VIN, window sticker, or dealer records. When in doubt, a quick check with a Lexus dealer or a qualified mechanic will confirm the exact configuration.
How do you know if your IS250 IS RWD or AWD?
This. Or like this. If you don't see anything going into the center of the front or rear wheels these wheels are not drive wheels. And this vehicle is not a four-wheel.
IS the 2010 Lexus is250 RWD or AWD?
The 2010 Lexus IS 250 is powered by a 2.5-liter V6 that produces 204 hp and 185 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard and it can be equipped with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, while all-wheel drive is available and only attached to the auto.
How do I find out if my car IS AWD or RWD?
You can tell if your car is AWD or RWD by checking for a badge on the car's exterior, looking for a rear differential underneath, or by checking the vehicle's VIN. The easiest and most reliable methods are checking the owner's manual or doing a VIN search online.
Check your car for identifying marks
- Exterior badges: Many vehicles have an emblem on the rear or sides indicating their drivetrain, such as "AWD," "4WD," or "Quattro".
- Rear differential: Get on your hands and knees and look underneath the rear of the car. If you see a circular, spherical casing connecting axles to the rear wheels, it is likely rear-wheel drive (RWD) or has an all-wheel drive (AWD) system. If you don't see a differential at the rear, but do see drive axles at the front, it's likely front-wheel drive (FWD).
Perform a VIN search
- Online search: Use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to search for your car's specifications online. Many free tools are available for this purpose.
- Check the report: The results will likely provide a "Vehicle Specifications" or "drivetrain" section, which will clearly state if your car is AWD.
Other methods
- Consult the owner's manual: This is the most straightforward and reliable way to find your car's specific drivetrain information.
- Look for axles: Crawl underneath the car and look for drive axles going to each wheel.
- If you see axles only going to the front wheels, it's FWD.
- If you see axles going to both the front and rear wheels, it is AWD or 4WD.
- Check the sticker on the driver's side door: Sometimes, a sticker here will have a code that indicates the drivetrain type.
Are all Lexus IS250 AWD?
The IS 250 debuted in 2005 as a 2006 model, offering a 204-horsepower, 2.5-liter V-6 engine that could be paired with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission and rear- or all-wheel drive (AWD was offered only with the automatic).
