Is the Lexus IS 350 expensive to maintain?
For most owners, the IS 350 is not typically expensive to keep running compared with many other luxury sedans. Routine service costs tend to be predictable, and Lexus’ reputation for reliability helps limit the likelihood of major, surprise repairs relative to some European rivals.
To understand what that means in practice, this article breaks down common maintenance costs, how expenses can vary by year and usage, and practical tips to keep ownership affordable without sacrificing reliability or performance.
Routine maintenance cost picture
Below is a look at what most IS 350 owners pay for regular service and wear items. The figures are general ranges reflecting typical service at independent shops or dealers, and will vary by region, tire size, and driving habits.
- Oil changes and other fluids: Most IS 350 models use synthetic oil and require oil changes roughly every 5,000–10,000 miles. Independent shops typically charge about $60–$120 per oil change, while a dealer visit might run $100–$180.
- Tire maintenance and replacement: Tire rotation is usually recommended every 5,000–7,500 miles. A full set of tires can range from roughly $700–$1,500 for all-season tires, and $1,000–$2,000 or more for performance tires.
- Brakes: Pad replacement commonly occurs every 30,000–60,000 miles, with pads costing about $150–$300 per axle at an independent shop; rotors or more extensive service can push the cost higher, often $300–$600 per axle.
- Filters, wipers, and inspections: Cabin air filters, engine air filters, and routine inspections typically total a few hundred dollars per year, depending on parts and whether any items require replacement.
- Miscellaneous routine items: Fluids, battery checks, and small consumables add to annual costs but are usually modest for a well-maintained IS 350.
Conclusion: For routine maintenance, the IS 350 sits in the middle of the luxury-sedan pack—generally more affordable to service than many European rivals and aligned with Toyota-based reliability.
Costs that come with age, mileage, and uncommon repairs
As a vehicle ages or racks up high mileage, costs can spike if preventive maintenance has been neglected or unusual wear surfaces. The IS 350 uses a timing chain, which reduces some timing-belt replacement concerns, but other components can still require attention as the car ages.
- Major transmission or drivetrain work: If needed, transmission-related repairs or replacements can range roughly from $2,000 to $4,000 or more, depending on the fault and whether a rebuilt unit is used.
- Suspension and steering components: Ball joints, control arms, tie rods, and related parts can cost roughly $1,000–$2,000 per suspension corner if replaced or rebuilt with labor.
- Engine or electrical issues: Significant engine or electrical system problems can drive costs well into the thousands, with typical repairs ranging from about $1,000 to several thousand dollars depending on the fault and parts required.
- Battery and ancillary electrical components: Battery replacement is usually $150–$350, while more complex electrical module work can be higher if diagnostics or programming are involved.
Conclusion: While the IS 350 is generally reliable, older examples with high mileage can incur larger repairs. The overall risk is lower than some competing luxury brands, but budgeting for occasional big-ticket items is prudent as the car ages.
Strategies to keep maintenance predictable and affordable
Carrying the IS 350 long-term is most affordable when you stay ahead of wear, choose the right service partners, and leverage smart purchasing decisions.
- Stick to the maintenance schedule and keep thorough service records. Regular preventive care lowers the chance of costly, unexpected failures.
- Shop around for service. A reputable independent shop with Lexus experience can be cheaper than a dealer, especially for routine maintenance and common repairs.
- Be selective with tires. Opt for OEM-recommended sizes and brands that balance performance, durability, and price; schedule rotations to maximize tread life.
- Consider prepaid maintenance or extended warranty options if you plan to keep the car for many years. These plans can provide predictability and savings on routine service or covered components.
- Monitor recalls and service bulletins. Addressing recalls promptly can prevent longer-term issues and reduce potential costs down the line.
Conclusion: With disciplined maintenance, careful shopping, and foresight about tires and brakes, the IS 350’s ownership costs are manageable for a luxury sedan.
Summary
Overall, the Lexus IS 350 tends to be one of the more cost-conscious choices among luxury sedans when it comes to maintenance. Routine service costs are predictable, and its strong reliability helps keep the odds of expensive surprises lower than many rivals. Your actual expenses will depend on how well the car has been maintained, how hard you drive it, and the maintenance path you choose (dealer vs. independent). If you plan to own the car for several years, budgeting for periodic larger repairs and investing in preventive care can help preserve its value and driving experience while keeping overall costs reasonable.
