Is the 2008 Lexus IS reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 2008 Lexus IS?

The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 23% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2008 Lexus IS have?

3 recalls on file for this model year.

2008 Lexus IS

○ Not enough data

2008 Lexus IS
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:43:21.474Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 102
Recalls: 3
Investigations: 0
Top problem: Structure

Complaints per year

2008: 102 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1998	0
1999	1
2000	0
2001	1
2002	12
2003	12
2004	10
2005	12
2006	143
2007	122
2008	102
2009	40
2010	40
2011	15
2012	18
2013	9
2014	12
2015	9
2016	2
2017	11
2018	3
2019	2
2020	6
2021	2
2022	4
2023	5
2024	1
2025	1
2026	2

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Structure

23% · 23 reports

Most commonly citing body and door.

Engine

22% · 22 reports

Air bags

21% · 21 reports

Most commonly citing side/window.

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

The SRS airbag light went off, needs a new sensor which IS around $1700. The airbags won't work unless the sensor IS replaced which IS a huge safety issue.

NHTSA ODI report, 2016-07-21

Also filed under Electrical system

I purchased 2 brand new michelin pilot sport a/s plus 225/45/ZR17 91Y for my 2008 Lexus IS 250 installed as front tires at costco.

NHTSA ODI report, 2009-02-09

Visibility/wiper

11% · 11 reports

Show complaint excerpts

The problem I am experiencing pertains to the dash of my Lexus IS 250. The dash cover has melted, most likely due to exposure to heat during sunny days.

NHTSA ODI report, 2023-11-13

Fuel/propulsion system

6% · 6 reports

Safety timeline

3 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2009-01-16Engine and engine cooling09V020000 Toyota IS recalling 214,570 my 2006-2008 Lexus IS, my 2006-2007 GS and my 2007-2008 LS passenger vehicles equipped with aluminum fuel delivery pipes (Fuel rails). Ethanol fuels with a low moisture…

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel delivery pipes free of charge. The recall IS expected to begin during February 2009. Owners may contact Toyota/Lexus at 1-800-255-3987.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

2009-12-31Vehicle speed control09V388000 Toyota IS recalling certain model year 2004-2010 passenger vehicles. The accelerator pedal can get stuck in the wide open position due to its being trapped by an unsecured or incompatible driver's…

Remedy: Toyota filed an amended defect report on November 25, 2009, stating that dealers will modify the accelerator pedal and, on certain vehicles, alter the shape of the floor surface under the pedal.…

Check if this car was fixed →
R

2011-03-07Fuel system, gasoline11V029000 Toyota IS recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Lexus IS and model year 2006-2007 Lexus gs vehicles. Due to insufficient tightening of the fuel pressure sensor connected to an engine fuel delivery…

Remedy: Dealers will inspect for fuel leakage from the threaded portion of the fuel pressure sensor and if a fuel leak IS not confirmed, dealers will further tighten the fuel pressure sensor with the proper…

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2008 Lexus IS — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Structure: 23 reports on file for this year.
Engine: 22 reports on file for this year.
Air bags: 21 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 09V020000 · Engine and engine cooling
Recall 09V388000 · Vehicle speed control
Recall 11V029000 · Fuel system, gasoline

FAQ

Is the 2008 Lexus IS reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2008 Lexus IS?: The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 23% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2008 Lexus IS have?: 3 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.