Lexus IS 300h F Sport Reliability

One of the most reliable premium sedans available. Japanese hybrid sedan competing with BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, known for exceptional build quality and low running costs. The 2AR-FSE hybrid powertrain uses proven Toyota technology found in millions of vehicles worldwide. Main concerns are mostly minor: 12V battery drain if parked for extended periods, brake disc surface corrosion (common on hybrids due to regen braking), occasional infotainment glitches on 2014-2016 models, and headlight condensation. The e-CVT gearbox is mechanically bulletproof but has a characteristic rubber-band feel that some drivers find uninspiring. Factory hybrid warranty extends to 5 years. Real-world fuel economy averages 40-50 mpg (5-6 L/100km), significantly better than diesel rivals in city driving.

Expected Annual Maintenance Costs

€750 - €1,400/year

15,000 km/year

Fixed costs

€550-850

Risk buffer

€200-550

What Can Break bars = likelihood

Brake disc surface corrosion €400 - €800

Rear discs corrode quickly due to regenerative braking reducing conventional brake use · more· less

The IS 300h is renowned for rapid corrosion on brake disc surfaces, particularly the rear brakes. This is common on hybrids because regenerative braking means the conventional brakes are used less frequently, allowing surface rust to build up. While brake pads can last 100,000+ km due to light use, the discs often need replacement around 80,000-100,000 km due to corrosion and lipping. At 130,000 km service, discs typically show heavy surface corrosion even when pads have 8-9mm remaining. OEM replacement costs approximately €370 for pads and discs together. Some light rust is normal and scrapes off when driving, but deep corrosion requires disc replacement.

12V battery drain / premature failure €150 - €300

Battery dies if car sits unused for 3-5 days, caused by standby draw from electronics · more· less

The 12V battery drain issue is well-documented among IS 300h owners. If the car isn't driven for 3-5 days, the 12V battery can go flat. This affects cars of all ages - even newer models. The root cause is often the infotainment system not properly entering sleep mode, continuing to draw current until the battery dies. Some owners have replaced 3-4 batteries in a few years without solving the issue. The 12V batteries in Toyota/Lexus hybrids have a shorter life expectancy (around 5 years) because there's no alternator - the battery is only charged by the hybrid system while driving. Solution: Use a trickle charger if the car will sit unused, or drive it at least once every 3-4 days. Battery replacement costs €150-200 for aftermarket, €250-300 for OEM.

Infotainment system crash / boot loop €600 - €1,000

2014-2016 models affected by faulty OTA update causing navigation/audio system failure · more· less

Lexus sent a faulty over-the-air software update to 2014-2016 IS models that caused the navigation, audio, and climate control systems to become unresponsive or enter a continuous reboot loop. The system keeps restarting, affecting operation of navigation, audio, climate controls, and hands-free phone functions. According to Lexus, the issue was caused by "an errant data broadcast by our traffic and weather data service provider." Some cases were resolved by Lexus at no cost through software fixes. Persistent cases requiring head unit replacement cost approximately €1,000 at dealerships. A battery disconnect reset can sometimes resolve the issue: disconnect the 12V battery negative terminal for 30 seconds, reconnect, and wait 5 minutes for the system to reload. If the navigation screen remains stuck at the Lexus logo startup screen or continues rebooting, dealer intervention is required.

Headlight condensation €150 - €1,200

Headlight units develop moisture buildup, especially nearside front, due to seal or vent issues · more· less

Headlight condensation is reported on IS 300h models, with some units filling with moisture that never fully dries out. Two main causes: blocked vents (from debris, spider webs, or dust) or compromised seals allowing water ingress. Minor condensation that clears when you drive the car is normal. Persistent moisture indicates a larger problem. Solutions range from simple to expensive: cleaning/blowing out the vent with compressed air (free), drying with a blow dryer inserted through the bulb opening (€0-50 DIY), resealing the lens-to-housing gap with silicone (€150-300 at independent shop), to full headlight replacement (€1,000+ per assembly at dealer). Check if condensation clears during normal use before pursuing expensive repairs.

Shock absorber failure / weeping €600 - €1,200

Rear shock absorbers leak oil, typically after 80,000-120,000 km, especially on F Sport models · more· less

IS 300h owners have reported rear shock absorbers developing oil leaks or weeping, particularly on F Sport models with firmer suspension. Symptoms include a bouncy ride, oil visible on the shock body, or one corner of the vehicle sitting lower. F Sport suspension uses firmer valving which creates higher internal pressures and can reduce shock longevity. Some owners report shock failures requiring replacement around 80,000-100,000 km. Replacement cost is approximately €1,000-1,200 for a pair at dealers (parts €400-500 each, labor 3-4 hours). Independent garages charge €600-800 for the same job with aftermarket shocks. The ride quality becomes noticeably "bouncy" when shocks fail. Not covered under extended warranty.

Water pump failure €400 - €1,000

Electric water pump can fail around 60,000-100,000 km, causing coolant leaks or overheating · more· less

The IS 300h uses an electric water pump integrated with the thermostat housing. Some owners report failures around 60,000 km, though this is considered early. Symptoms include coolant warning light, engine overheating, poor cabin heating, or visible coolant leaks. One owner was quoted £390 (approximately €450) for replacement, which is reasonable. US pricing suggests €775-1,000 for the job. The pump itself costs €150-250, but labor is significant (4-6 hours) due to access requirements. When replacing the water pump, it's recommended to flush the cooling system and inspect all hoses. Replacing the thermostat at the same time prevents future issues. If you see a coolant warning light or overheating, stop driving immediately to prevent engine damage.

Electric power steering failure (EPS) €300 - €1,800

Intermittent EPS failures make steering stiff, often caused by connector or module issues · more· less

Some IS 300h owners report intermittent electric power steering (EPS) failures where the steering suddenly becomes very stiff, then returns to normal after a few moments. Other symptoms include the car veering to one side with resistance when correcting, or binding sensations at highway speeds. The EPS system relies on sensors, motors, and control modules rather than hydraulic fluid. Common causes include: loose or corroded electrical connectors on the steering rack, faulty EPS control module, or low battery voltage causing system resets. Early 2013-2014 models had more issues due to design glitches. Lexus issued Service Campaign CSC-10028182-9096 in 2009 for hard steering, replacing the electric power steering link assembly at no charge. Check if your VIN is affected. Repair costs: cleaning/securing connectors (€0-100), control module replacement (€800-1,100), steering rack replacement (€1,500-2,800). Check battery and alternator health first, as voltage drops can trigger EPS faults.

Parking sensor failure €100 - €400

Front or rear parking sensors fail due to wiring issues or sensor damage from debris · more· less

Parking sensor failures are occasionally reported on the IS 300h, typically affecting front or rear corner sensors. Most common causes: dirt/debris buildup on sensor lenses, damaged sensors from minor parking impacts, or corroded wiring connections. Before replacing sensors, clean them thoroughly - this often solves the problem. Symptoms include inconsistent alerts, sensors not detecting obstacles, or constant false warnings. Corner sensors are relatively easy to replace but usually require bumper removal. OEM sensors from Lexus cost €200-400 per sensor and come pre-painted. Aftermarket sensors cost €25-100. Labor is 1-2 hours for bumper removal and sensor replacement (€100-200). Dealerships charge €730-833 for full backup system sensor replacement. Independent shops can do individual sensor replacement for €150-300 total.

Hybrid battery degradation €1,500 - €3,000

Hybrid battery rarely fails before 10 years / 150,000 km, individual cells can be replaced · more· less

Hybrid battery failure in the IS 300h is very rare. Lexus extends hybrid battery warranty to 5 years / 100,000 km, with additional coverage available through Hybrid Health Check services (adds 1 year / 15,000 km per successful check). The nickel-metal hydride battery typically lasts 10+ years or 150,000-200,000 km. Symptoms of failing battery: P0A80 error code, check engine light, reduced fuel economy, "Hybrid System Failure" warning, or inability to start despite dashboard lights functioning. Most failures are caused by just a few bad cells within the pack. Individual cell replacement costs €40-100 per cell plus labor, far cheaper than full battery replacement (€2,000-4,500). Specialist hybrid battery shops can test individual cells and replace only the failed ones. Lexus dealers may quote full battery replacement unnecessarily. If the car is parked for extended periods, put it in Ready mode for 60 minutes weekly to maintain hybrid battery charge. Proactively check battery health after 8 years or 160,000 km.

Exceptionally reliable for a premium sedan

The Lexus IS 300h ranks among the most reliable cars in its class. Lexus topped manufacturer reliability surveys with just under 10% of owners reporting faults in the first year - half the rate of Volvo and Mercedes. The IS 300h placed 11th out of 75 cars in the Auto Express Driver Power 2018 survey with excellent reliability scores. Most reported issues are minor and easily preventable: keeping the car on a trickle charger prevents 12V battery drain, regular driving reduces brake disc corrosion, and the proven Toyota hybrid technology has been refined over millions of vehicles. The e-CVT gearbox is mechanically bulletproof with no known major failure patterns. Parts availability is excellent and service costs are competitive with German rivals while requiring less frequent repairs.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

General checks

Service history
Complete Lexus dealer or authorized specialist records essential. Verify Hybrid Health Checks performed annually to maintain hybrid warranty extension.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear. F Sport models use 225/40R18 front, 255/35R18 rear. Many come with run-flats (no spare provided).
Cold start
Start engine completely cold. 12V battery issues may prevent starting. Check dashboard for warning lights.
Body condition
Check for parking damage, minor accident repairs. Premium models are often dealer-maintained and well-cared-for.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including varied speeds. CVT gearbox has characteristic rubber-band feel - not a defect but may take adaptation.

Specific for this vehicle

12V battery starting test
Ask when car was last driven. If sitting 3+ days, the battery may be weak. Test by locking/unlocking multiple times, then starting. Weak battery is a red flag for electrical drain issue.
Inspect all brake discs for corrosion
Check front and especially rear discs for deep pitting, scoring, or lipping. Light surface rust is normal. Heavy corrosion means €400-800 replacement soon.
Test all infotainment functions thoroughly
On 2014-2016 models especially: verify navigation loads properly, test climate controls, pair phone via Bluetooth, test radio/audio sources. Watch for boot loops or frozen screens.
Check headlights for moisture/condensation
Look inside headlight assemblies for water droplets, fog, or staining. Persistent moisture costs €1,000+ per headlight to fix. Minor condensation that clears when driving is acceptable.
Inspect shock absorbers for oil leaks
Look at all four shock bodies for oil wetness or staining. Rear shocks fail more often on F Sport models. Bounce test each corner - should settle in 1-2 bounces.
Verify Hybrid Health Check history
Ask for certificates showing annual Hybrid Health Checks. Each successful check extends hybrid warranty by 1 year / 15,000 km. Missing checks mean no extended warranty.
Test electric power steering at various speeds
Check steering feel at parking speeds, city speeds, and highway speeds. Watch for sudden stiffness, binding, or pulling to one side. EPS warning light is a major concern.
Check coolant level and condition
Coolant should be pink/red and filled to proper level. Low level or brown/milky appearance indicates water pump or head gasket issues.
Verify split folding rear seats (if important)
Base IS 300h models came without split-folding rear seats. Check if this feature is present if needed for practicality.

Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins

Takata airbag inflator (various production dates) Verify completed

Infotainment system OTA update issue (2014-2016) Check with dealer

Electric power steering campaign CSC-10028182-9096 Check VIN eligibility

Contact a Lexus dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls and service campaigns have been completed. The infotainment update issue affected 2014-2016 models - many were resolved through software fixes at no cost. TSBs can be searched at the NHTSA website (nhtsa.gov) or through Lexus's Technical Information System.

Warranty Status

Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km) Expired on all 2013-2020 models

Hybrid components warranty (5 years / 100,000 km) Check production date

Hybrid Health Check extended warranty 1 year / 15,000 km per check (up to 15 years old)

All 2013-2020 IS 300h models are outside their original 3-year factory warranty. The hybrid battery and components received 5 years / 100,000 km coverage from new - check the original registration date. Extended hybrid coverage is available through Lexus's Hybrid Health Check program (€59 per check), which adds 1 year / 15,000 km hybrid system warranty per successful inspection, available for cars up to 15 years old. This is excellent value for peace of mind on the hybrid system. Extended warranty packages may be available through Lexus dealers for additional coverage.

This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.