2011 Lexus IS
Only 15 complaints on file — too few 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.
Only 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
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 | 39 |
| 2011 | 15 |
| 2012 | 17 |
| 2013 | 8 |
| 2014 | 11 |
| 2015 | 9 |
| 2016 | 2 |
| 2017 | 8 |
| 2018 | 3 |
| 2019 | 2 |
| 2020 | 4 |
| 2021 | 2 |
| 2022 | 4 |
| 2023 | 3 |
| 2024 | 1 |
| 2025 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 15 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
7 of 15 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
TAKATA RECALL - MY CAR IS SUPPOSEDLY AFFECTED BY THE RECALL, BUT THE RECALL WILL NOT ACTUALLY SHOW UP IN THE SYSTEM- IT SOUNDS LIKE IT ONLY HAPPENS IN 2019 - WHICH IS GREATER THAN 6 YEARS AFTER THE CAR WAS PUT IN SERVICE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20171231
TAKATA RECALL. THIS RECALL IS TAKING TOO LONG AND THERE IS NO RESOLUTION DATE PROPOSED. I AM TRYING TO TRADE-IN OR SELL MY VEHICLE AND RECEIVE OFFERS $4000 OR MORE LESS THEN KBB VALUE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20161106
LEXUS NOTIFIED ME IN MAY 2016 OF A RECALL FOR TAKATA AIRBAGS, BUT HAS NOT TAKEN DEFINITIVE ACTION TO REPLACE MY AIRBAG SO MY CAR IS SAFE TO DRIVE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20160905
4 of 15 total reports mention: visibility/wiper.
Show complaint excerpts
The dashboard on our vehicle has started to "melt." While there was a warranty enhancement program in the past (we did not receive notice), the problem has developed after the window for repair closed.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260219
3 of 15 total reports mention: structure.
Show complaint excerpts
The dashboard on our vehicle has started to "melt." While there was a warranty enhancement program in the past (we did not receive notice), the problem has developed after the window for repair closed.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260219
THE DOOR PANELS AND DASH BOARD GETS STICKY AND MELT OVER THE YEARS AND THE SEATS STARTS TO TEAR AND BECOME LOOSE
NHTSA ODI report, 20191108
2 of 15 total reports mention: engine.
1 of 15 total reports mentions: steering.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2011 Lexus IS — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility/wiper issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (3 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2011 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 2011 Lexus IS?
The most-reported component is air bags, accounting for 47% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2011 Lexus IS have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.