Lexus LS reliability: common problems by model year
Across 12 model years, the Lexus LS has 574 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 17 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are service brakes and vehicle speed control. 2008 drew the most complaints (182), 2021 the fewest (6).
12
Model years tracked
574
Owner complaints
17
Recalls
25
Median per year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Lexus LS vehicles (US, public record).
Which LS years have the most problems?
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.
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. The LS is consistently described as a benchmark for a "deca
LS460 Generation:
Control arm and suspension bushing wear: Requires replacement far too often, as frequently as every 60k miles, with costs exceeding $2,000. Frequency: very frequent.
Air suspension failures: Air struts and related components on Ultra Luxury (UL) models require replacement, representing a major maintenance cost. Frequency: recurrent.
Premature tire wear: Tires may last only 10k-15k miles due to vehicle weight and suspension alignment sensitivity. Frequency: recurrent.
Brake feel at low speeds: Described as "atrocious," "jerky and sensitive," detracting from the luxury experience. Frequency: isolated.
Owner insights cover all generations of the LS. Individual model years are broken down above.