Lexus LS: common problems & condition

Cars inspectedreal pre-purchase inspections

54/100

Average conditionall cars we check: 60/100

34%

In good shape (60+)all cars we check: 52%

Across 27 used Lexus LSs we inspected, this model scores noticeably below average — average condition 54/100 vs 60 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.

Most common faults

Oil leaks · Engine

67%

Active error codes · Electronic equipment

56%

Cracked or torn suspension bushings · Suspension

56%

Fuel trim out of range · Engine

48%

Tires condition & wear · Brakes and tires

37%

Share of inspected Lexus LSs where each item was flagged.

How they score

Excellent 4% Good 30% Mediocre 48% Poor 19%

Hidden history

What the seller might not mention — how often we find it on this model.

81%had a repainted or replaced panelall cars: 76%

4%showed structural repairall cars: 4%

26%had fault codes recently clearedall cars: 23%

What else does ~$21k buy? A used Lexus LS typically sells for around $21,408 — compare the odds of getting a good car across every make at that budget. Compare →

RX 72 cars · 63% good IS 37 cars · 52% good ES 47 cars · 41% good GX 25 cars · 28% good

Other Lexus models we've inspected — or see the full Lexus profile.

Straight from recent Lexus LS reports

2005 Lexus LS · 110k mi — flagged: low coolant / cooling system issues, oil leaks, charging voltage. Inspected Jun 30.

2005 Lexus LS · 94k mi — flagged: fault codes recently cleared, engine control module, vibration. Inspected Jun 19.

Is the Lexus LS reliable?

34% of the 27 we inspected scored 60/100 or higher, with an average of 54/100 — it scores noticeably below average.

What are the most common problems on a used Lexus LS?

The items we flag most often are oil leaks (67%), active error codes (56%), cracked or torn suspension bushings (56%). Have these checked before buying.

Should I worry about cleared fault codes?

On 26% 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 27 inspections · updated Jul 12, 2026