Lexus IS 500
Current gen (See guide)
The Lexus IS 500 is one of the newest and lowest-complaint sport sedans on the used market, but even within its short 2022-2025 production run, one model year draws slightly more owner-reported concerns than the others.
- ReliabilityMixedYear-sensitive
- Ownership cost$$$Brand typical
- Insurance$$$Moderate
- Repair difficultyModerateDealer or indie
- Typical lifespanLong if maintainedHistory matters
At a glance
- Worst years
- 2022
- Best years
- 2024, 2025
- Top failure
- Fuel/propulsion system complaints on first-year (2022) cars (NHTSA data)
- Recommended tire
- Michelin CrossClimate2
- Must check
- VIN recalls + PPI
Years to avoid
See the linked years-to-avoid guide for worst (2022) and best (2024, 2025) model years.
- LayoutLexus IS 500
- CharacterSee guide
Engines
Which powertrains hold up — and which to walk away from.
- Year-dependent
See years-to-avoid guide
All
Reliability swings by model year — use the linked guide for the full map.
Transmissions
- Mixed
Automatic (typical)
Most years
Confirm service history and closed recalls on used examples.
Ownership metrics
- Top failure theme
- Fuel/propulsion system complaints on first-year (2022) cars (NHTSA data)Worst-year cluster.
- Safer window
- 2024, 2025Best years in the guide.
- Must check
- Recalls + PPINon-negotiable.
Factory tire sizes
| Size | Years / trims | Best all-season | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| See owner's manual | Common OE Many trims |  All-weather tire pick. | Live prices |
Recommended tires
Recalls
Run NHTSA by VIN
Multiple
Always confirm open campaigns before purchase.
Check recalls
Maintenance
| Interval | Service |
|---|---|
| Pre-purchase | Full PPI + recall check |
| Per schedule | Factory-spec fluid service |
Should you buy one?
Prefer 2024, 2025. Approach 2022 with extra caution.