Lexus IS II (XE20) (2005 – 2013)

Reliability score : 8.8/10

The second-generation Lexus IS (codename XE20) marked a turning point for the Japanese brand in Europe and North America. Adopting the "L-Finesse" design language, it was designed to compete head-on with the BMW 3 Series (E90) and the Mercedes C-Class (W204). Unlike the first generation, it abandoned inline-6 engines for V6 engines (GR series) and introduced, for the first time at Lexus, a diesel engine (reserved for Europe) to meet local demand. The model underwent two minor facelifts in 2008 and 2010, improving equipment, suspension, and steering. While the V6 petrol versions are true global benchmarks for reliability, the diesel version tarnished the model's European record. Overall, the build quality, soundproofing, and robustness of the onboard electronics place the Lexus IS II among

✅ Strengths

Exceptional reliability of the V6 petrol engines (ADAC breakdown rate of 1.2/1000, well above average).
Aisin automatic gearbox of great smoothness and foolproof robustness.
Interior finish quality and aging of materials (leathers, soft-touch plastics).
Excellent technical inspection results (TÜV Report: 9.5% defects at 3 years, among the best in the premium segment).
Mark Levinson audio system (optional) of exceptional quality.
What Car? reliability score of 4.5/5 (only 10% of breakdowns reported over 12 months).

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the diesel engine (IS 220d/200d), unworthy of the brand's reputation.
Very restricted rear roominess (legroom and headroom).
Average trunk volume and non-folding rear bench seat (ski hatch only).
Infotainment system obsolete today (no native Apple CarPlay/Android Auto).
Valve carbon buildup on the 2.5 V6 engine (IS 250) due to the lack of port injection.

🎯 Verdict

The second-generation Lexus IS is a car with two faces. If you opt for a petrol version (IS 250 or, even better, the impossible-to-find IS 350 in Europe), you are buying one of the most reliable and best-built sedans of its decade. ADAC and TÜV Report statistics confirm the exceptional longevity of the V6 engines and the Aisin automatic gearbox. On the other hand, the diesel version (IS 220d/200d) is an anomaly in Lexus history: fragile, expensive to maintain, and prone to serious breakdowns (head gasket, carbon buildup). The verdict is therefore binary: flee the diesel, and buy the petrol with your eyes closed, simply budgeting for a possible intake cleaning on the IS 250.

Common issues

Accumulation de carbone sur les soupapes d'admission (moteurs à injection directe 2.5L 4GR-FSE et 3.5L 2GR-FSE) High

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 800 – 1 500 € (nettoyage par sablage aux noix)

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien, envisager un décalaminage préventif.

Fuite de la pompe à eau Medium

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 350 – 600 €

Inspecter régulièrement le niveau et l'état du liquide de refroidissement.

Tableau de bord collant ou fondant (dû à l'exposition au soleil et à la chaleur) Low

🔧 Variable, souvent après 5-10 ans

💶 1 000 – 2 500 € (remplacement) ou 100 – 300 € (housse)

Protéger le tableau de bord du soleil, envisager une housse ou un traitement.

Capteurs d'oxygène (sondes lambda) défectueux Low

🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km

💶 200 – 400 € par capteur

Un voyant moteur peut indiquer un capteur d'oxygène défectueux, vérifier la consommation.

Étriers de frein grippés (particulièrement à l'arrière) Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 250 – 500 € par essieu (remplacement étriers et plaquettes)

Vérifier l'usure des plaquettes et le bon fonctionnement des étriers lors des entretiens.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£90 – 160
Timing chain	£650 – 1 300 (si nécessaire, non systématique)
Clutch	£850 – 1 500 (si applicable, boîte manuelle)
Complete brakes	£300 – 580
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.