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What is the life expectancy of a Lexus IS 350 miles?

Typically around 200,000 to 250,000 miles, with many IS 350s reaching 300,000 miles or more when properly maintained.


Typical mileage lifespan


Understanding the ceiling on mileage helps set expectations for owners and shoppers. The IS 350's longevity hinges on care, condition, and usage patterns over time.



  • 200,000 to 250,000 miles is a common benchmark for well-maintained examples.

  • With diligent maintenance, 250,000 to 300,000 miles is achievable for many vehicles.

  • Several owners report reaching or surpassing 300,000 miles, though outcomes vary by year, maintenance history, and driving conditions.


These numbers reflect typical experiences across model years and are influenced by whether routine service was kept on schedule and whether major components were addressed before failure signs appeared.


Factors that influence longevity


Several factors determine how far an IS 350 can go. The most impactful elements are the quality and regularity of maintenance, the driving environment, and how the car is treated day to day.



  • Maintenance history and service quality, including timely oil changes, fluid replacements, and belt/chain inspections.

  • Driving style and conditions, such as frequent stop-and-go city driving versus steady highway cruising.

  • Climate and storage conditions, with extreme heat, cold, or exposure to salt accelerating wear on certain components.

  • Turbo or non-turbo variants are not a factor for the IS 350 (which uses a V6), but fuel quality, ignition health, and cooling system maintenance matter.

  • Accident history and prior repairs, which can affect long-term reliability even if current performance seems fine.


In short, predictable maintenance and gentle usage tend to push the odometer higher, while neglect or harsh conditions tend to shorten a car’s lifespan.


Maximizing life expectancy: maintenance and care


Below are practical steps known to extend the IS 350’s longevity and help protect its value over time.



  1. Follow the factory maintenance schedule closely, including oil changes, filter replacements, and coolant/transmission-fluid services at the recommended intervals.

  2. Use high-quality lubricants and fluids that meet Lexus specifications; many models benefit from synthetic oil and the appropriate coolant and transmission fluid grade.

  3. Have the timing chain and related components inspected at recommended service intervals, and address wear or tensioner issues promptly to prevent cascading damage.

  4. Address leaks, abnormal noises, or performance changes early rather than waiting for a full failure.

  5. Maintain tires, brakes, and suspension parts; regular tire rotations and alignment checks help prevent uneven wear and preserve handling.

  6. Drive smoothly, avoid prolonged idling, and warm up the engine gently in cold weather to reduce wear on the engine and exhaust components.


Adhering to these practices can help an IS 350 approach the upper end of its mile-age range and reduce the likelihood of expensive, unexpected failures.


Signs of aging to watch as the odometer climbs


As the miles add up, certain symptoms can indicate developing wear. Monitoring these early can guide timely maintenance decisions.


Engine and transmission wear


Look for reduced acceleration, rough or delayed shifting, misfires, unusual exhaust smoke, or the check engine light turning on. Early diagnostics can prevent more serious damage.


Suspension, steering and brakes


Noticeable clunks, vibrations, wandering steering, or uneven tire wear can signal worn bushings, shocks, or alignment issues that require attention.


Electrical and interior components


Flickering lights, balky infotainment functions, or frequent battery drainage can point to aging electrical components or alternator/battery wear.


Keeping up with diagnostics when symptoms appear and addressing wiring, sensor, or actuator wear promptly helps preserve long-term reliability.


Summary


The Lexus IS 350 is capable of substantial longevity when properly cared for. A realistic expectation is roughly 200,000 to 250,000 miles, with many cars reaching 300,000 miles or more under diligent maintenance. Factors such as maintenance quality, driving conditions, and proactive repairs play key roles. By sticking to a rigorous maintenance plan, using quality fluids, and addressing issues early, drivers can maximize the SUV’s lifespan and enjoy reliable performance for years to come.

How many miles does a Lexus IS350 last?


A Lexus IS350 can last over 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting reaching 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. While the average lifespan is around 183,000 miles, factors like regular maintenance, driving conditions, and owner care significantly influence its longevity. 
Factors influencing lifespan

  • Maintenance: Consistent oil changes, fluid checks, and following the recommended service schedule are crucial for a long-lasting vehicle. 
  • Driving conditions: Where and how you drive can affect wear and tear on the vehicle. 
  • Owner care: How the vehicle is treated by the owner, including maintenance and driving habits, plays a major role. 

Tips for maximizing longevity
  • Follow the maintenance schedule: Adhering to the factory-recommended service intervals will help keep major components in good shape. 
  • Perform regular oil changes: This is one of the most important and basic maintenance tasks for engine health. 
  • Check and maintain tires: Proper tire pressure and replacing worn tires are important for safety and performance. 
  • Keep fluids topped off: Regularly check and top off all essential fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. 
  • Have a mechanic perform inspections: Regular professional inspections, especially of the major components like the engine and transmission, can help catch issues before they become serious. 



Is a Lexus IS350 expensive to maintain?


No, a Lexus IS350 is not considered expensive to maintain compared to other luxury sedans, and is even cheaper than the average for its class. It has lower-than-average annual repair costs, a lower probability of needing a major repair, and its reliability ratings are high. However, maintenance can be more expensive than for a non-luxury vehicle due to higher part costs. 
Maintenance costs and reliability

  • Lower than average: The Lexus IS350 is cheaper to maintain than the average luxury sedan, with an estimated $5,891 for maintenance and repairs over the first 10 years. 
  • Higher than average frequency: You may need to visit the shop slightly more often for minor issues, but severe issues are less likely. 
  • Reliability: The IS350 has a high reliability rating, ranking well among luxury midsize cars. 

Why it's not considered "expensive"
  • Lower repair costs: Its average annual repair cost is lower than the luxury car average. 
  • Fewer major repairs: The chance of a major repair is lower than for similar vehicles in its segment. 
  • Comparison to other brands: Lexus models, including the IS350, are generally more affordable to maintain than brands like BMW. 

Factors that could increase cost
  • Part costs: Parts for any luxury vehicle can be more expensive than those for non-luxury cars.
  • Dealer vs. independent mechanic: Going to a dealership for service will likely be more expensive than an independent mechanic due to higher labor rates and the use of factory parts. 



How reliable is the Lexus IS350 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.



What are the common problems with the IS350?


Common problems with the Lexus IS350 include a discolored inside rearview mirror, a clicking noise from the rear suspension, and issues with the charging system (like a sensitive alternator and battery). Other frequent issues reported are potential transmission problems with certain models, excessive road noise, and interior wear on older models like loose door panels or crumbling steering wheel leather. Some specific model years also have recalls related to the fuel pump or airbags. 
Mechanical and electronic issues 

  • Charging system: The alternator and battery are sensitive. A failing alternator is a common roadside issue, sometimes indicated by the battery light. 
  • Rearview mirror: The inside rearview mirror may become discolored or fade over time, a problem affecting models from 2006-2010. 
  • Rear suspension: Some owners report a clicking or popping noise from the rear suspension, especially on models from 2006 to 2015. 
  • Engine and fuel: Some models may experience a hard-starting issue that can be corrected with updated PCM software. There have also been recalls for fuel system malfunctions, such as a potential failure of the low-pressure fuel pump. 
  • Transmission: The 8-speed automatic transmission in some models can be slow to shift or not crisp enough for performance driving, though its performance varies by model year. 

Interior and body issues
  • Interior wear: On older models, interior materials like the steering wheel leather, door panels, and gear shift boot can show wear and tear, such as crumbling leather or loose parts. 
  • Road noise: Some owners complain of excessive road noise, particularly in newer models. 
  • Brake dust: The brake pads on some models can produce a lot of dust. 
  • Styling and ground clearance: The car sits low to the ground, which can lead to rock chips on the hood and difficulty with steep driveways. 

Recalls
  • Airbags: Some models were subject to a recall for faulty Takata airbags. 
  • Fuel pump: Certain years have a recall for a failing low-pressure fuel pump that can cause the engine to stall. 
  • Other safety recalls: Some model years have also had recalls or investigations into other safety issues, such as power steering failure and faulty windshield wipers. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.