Is the Lexus LS reliable?
38% of the 29 we inspected scored 60/100 or higher, with an average of 49/100 — it scores noticeably below average.
29
Cars inspectedreal pre-purchase inspections49/100
Average conditionall cars we check: 61/10038%
In good shape (60+)all cars we check: 56%Across 29 used Lexus LSs we inspected, this model scores noticeably below average — average condition 49/100 vs 61 for all cars we check. Every number on this page comes from real pre-purchase inspections — cars people were about to buy and paid an independent inspector to go through point by point, engine to underbody, paint depth to error codes. Not owner surveys, not warranty statistics, not forum lore: what we actually found.
What we found
Most common faults
Oil leaks · Engine
66%
Cracked or torn suspension bushings · Suspension
59%
Active error codes · Electronic equipment
52%
Fuel trim out of range · Engine
48%
Tires condition & wear · Brakes and tires
34%
Share of inspected Lexus LSs where each item was flagged.
How they score
Excellent 14%
Good 24%
Mediocre 24%
Poor 38%
Hidden history
What the seller might not mention — how often we find it on this model.
79%had a repainted or replaced panelall cars: 75%
3%showed structural repairall cars: 4%
28%had fault codes recently clearedall cars: 24%
More on Lexus
GS
26 cars · 69% good
RX
76 cars · 67% good
IS
42 cars · 50% good
ES
51 cars · 49% good
GX
27 cars · 48% good
Other Lexus models we've inspected — or see the full Lexus profile.
Straight from recent Lexus LS reports
2008 Lexus LS · 202k mi — flagged: smoothness, smoke, excessive vapor in exhaust, oil leaks. Inspected Sep 20.
2017 Lexus LS · 54k mi — flagged: anti-lock braking system / vehicle stability control / traction control, cracked or torn suspension bushings, air conditioning. Inspected Sep 14.
The bottom line
Expect oil and electronics trouble more than a clean bill of health. Start cold under the hood: oil leaks show on two-thirds of these cars and fuel trim is out of range on nearly half, so look for seepage and insist on a scan that hasn't just been wiped. Then check the suspension bushings before you drive—they're torn on most examples. Treat any fresh paint as cover, not care, and use the leaks plus active codes as your negotiating stick. If the engine is already wet or codes return after a reset, walk away.
FAQ
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What are the most common problems on a used Lexus LS?
The items we flag most often are oil leaks (66%), cracked or torn suspension bushings (59%), active error codes (52%). Have these checked before buying.
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Should I worry about cleared fault codes?
On 28% of these cars the ECU codes had been erased shortly before sale, which can hide active faults. Ask for a diagnostic scan and start the engine from cold.
Thinking of buying a Lexus LS? Get the exact car inspected before you pay.
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Based on 29 inspections · updated Oct 1, 2026
