Avoid: 2008, 2007, 2002, 2001 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2017 (few owner reports)
22 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 26 model years, the Lexus LS has 881 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 39 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are service brakes and vehicle speed control. 2008 drew the most complaints (182), 2023 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (1).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Lexus LS vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $35,857–$43,700.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 1 |
| 2023 | 1 |
| 2021 | 6 |
| 2019 | 7 |
| 2018 | 14 |
| 2016 | 17 |
| 2015 | 11 |
| 2014 | 19 |
| 2013 | 23 |
| 2012 | 21 |
| 2011 | 34 |
| 2010 | 40 |
| 2009 | 37 |
| 2008 | 182 |
| 2007 | 139 |
| 2006 | 17 |
| 2005 | 26 |
| 2004 | 36 |
| 2003 | 25 |
| 2002 | 42 |
| 2001 | 57 |
| 2000 | 13 |
| 1999 | 26 |
| 1998 | 48 |
| 1997 | 15 |
| 1996 | 24 |
Highest: 2008 (182 complaints). Lowest: 2023 (1).
The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by deep owner loyalty and satisfaction with the vehicle's core mission of providing unparalleled long-term comfort, refinement, and reliability.
Requires replacement far too often, as frequently as every 60k miles, with costs exceeding $2,000.
Air struts and related components on Ultra Luxury (UL) models require replacement, representing a major maintenance cost.
Tires may last only 10k-15k miles due to vehicle weight and suspension alignment sensitivity.
2009-2010 models have a noted rod bearing failure issue. First-year 2007 models are considered less reliable.
The 2018 LS500's new twin-turbo V6 had "early teething issues" compared to the previous V8. A manufacturer recall for engine debris affecting some 2022-2023 models is mentioned.
Owner insights cover all generations of the LS. Individual model years are broken down above.
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