Lexus LS 460 Years to Avoid
Looking to buy a used Lexus LS 460? While this flagship sedan is renowned for its luxury and reliability, some model years are prone to costly mechanical issues. In this guide, we’ll dive into which Lexus LS 460 years to avoid and why. Whether you’re concerned about transmission issues, air suspension failure, or excessive engine oil consumption, this article will help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- The Lexus LS 460 is a premium luxury sedan, but certain years have higher rates of reported mechanical issues.
- Common problems include transmission failures, engine oil consumption, air suspension issues, and brake actuator problems.
- Avoiding problematic years can save you from expensive repairs and frequent trips to the mechanic.
- The most reliable years are 2012, 2015, and 2017, with fewer reported issues and better overall build quality.
Part 1: Overview of the Lexus LS 460
The Lexus LS 460 is part of the brand’s flagship LS series and has long been a symbol of luxury, reliability, and high-end performance. First introduced in 2006, it quickly gained a reputation for its powerful V8 engine, refined interior, and advanced technology. However, like all cars, not every model year was created equal.
Why Used Lexus LS 460s Are Popular
Many buyers are drawn to used Lexus LS 460s because they offer a combination of luxury features and reliability at a fraction of the cost of a new car. With high-quality interiors, advanced infotainment systems, and smooth driving dynamics, the LS 460 is still a top pick among luxury sedans, even in the used car market.
Potential Downsides of Owning a Lexus LS 460
However, owning an older Lexus LS 460 also comes with potential downsides. Repair costs can be high, especially for issues related to the car’s advanced suspension and electronics. As we explore further, certain model years of the Lexus LS 460 should be avoided due to specific mechanical problems.
Part 2: Lexus LS 460 Years to Avoid
2007 Lexus LS 460
The 2007 Lexus LS 460 was the debut model year and is often cited as one of the least reliable LS 460s. This year was plagued by two major issues: transmission problems and suspension failures.
Transmission Problems
Owners of the 2007 Lexus LS 460 frequently reported transmission issues. Common complaints include:
- Harsh shifting: The transmission would often shift gears too abruptly, causing a jolt during acceleration.
- Delayed response: Many drivers reported delays between pressing the accelerator and the car actually responding, which created safety concerns, especially when merging onto highways.
These transmission problems were costly to fix, with some owners needing a complete transmission replacement.
Suspension Issues
The air suspension system in the 2007 Lexus LS 460 was also a major pain point. Lexus designed this system to offer a smooth ride, but many 2007 models experienced air suspension failure early on. Repairing or replacing the suspension system often cost thousands of dollars, adding to the list of issues that made this model year one to avoid.
2008 Lexus LS 460
The 2008 Lexus LS 460 was another problematic year with issues such as oil consumption and timing chain tensioner failures.
Oil Consumption Problems
One of the most commonly reported problems for the 2008 Lexus LS 460 was excessive oil consumption. Some owners found themselves adding oil every few hundred miles, which eventually led to engine wear and, in some cases, engine failure.
- Excessive oil burning led to carbon buildup inside the engine.
- If left unaddressed, the problem could cause irreversible damage to the pistons and cylinders, requiring expensive repairs.
Timing Chain Tensioner Issues
Another issue with the 2008 model was with the timing chain tensioner. A faulty tensioner would result in improper engine timing, which caused:
- Rattling noises during startup or while driving.
- Significant engine damage if not fixed in time, which required a timing chain replacement or even full engine repairs.
These combined issues made the 2008 Lexus LS 460 one of the less reliable years.
2010 Lexus LS 460
The 2010 Lexus LS 460 was prone to a host of electrical issues and brake system failures that negatively impacted its reliability.
Electrical Issues
Many owners of the 2010 LS 460 reported problems with the car’s infotainment system and electrical components. Common problems included:
- Navigation system failures: Screens freezing or failing entirely.
- Radio and sound system malfunctions: Sudden volume drops or complete audio failure.
- Dashboard warning lights: Random lights turning on for no apparent reason, causing confusion for drivers.
Fixing these issues often required replacing the electronic components, which could be expensive.
Brake System Problems
The brake actuator was another troublesome component in the 2010 model. Many drivers experienced erratic braking behavior, where the brakes would suddenly lose power or engage too aggressively.
- This posed a significant safety risk, and repairing the brake actuator was both costly and time-consuming.
2013 Lexus LS 460
The 2013 Lexus LS 460 had issues with its air suspension and was also prone to steering noise, which made it a problematic year to own.
Air Suspension Failure
The air suspension system continued to be a source of frustration in the 2013 model year. Owners reported premature suspension failures, which led to:
- A noticeable decrease in ride comfort.
- Sagging on one side of the vehicle.
- Costly repairs that often exceeded $3,000.
Steering Wheel Noise
Another issue reported by 2013 LS 460 owners was a creaking noise when turning the steering wheel. While this might seem like a minor problem, many owners found it incredibly annoying, and fixing it often required significant steering column work.
Part 3: Common Lexus LS 460 Problems Across All Years
Transmission Issues
Transmission problems have been a recurring theme for early Lexus LS 460 models, particularly from 2007 to 2010. These issues included:
- Delayed shifting or rough gear changes.
- Expensive repairs, often requiring a complete transmission replacement.
Air Suspension Problems
The air suspension system is another notorious issue across multiple years. While designed to offer a smooth ride, it frequently failed after a few years of use. Air suspension repair costs typically run into the thousands, and replacement parts for luxury vehicles like the LS 460 can be hard to come by.
Engine Oil Consumption
Excessive engine oil consumption has also been a significant problem in certain Lexus LS 460 models, particularly in the 2008 and 2010 years. This led to:
- Premature engine wear and, in severe cases, engine failure.
- The need for frequent oil top-ups, which is inconvenient and costly.
Electronic and Infotainment Failures
Older models often suffered from infotainment system malfunctions. These included:
- Touchscreen failures.
- Navigation system glitches.
- Other electronic malfunctions, such as dead audio or malfunctioning radios.
Fixing these electronics can be pricey, especially for older models no longer covered by warranty.
Brake Actuator Issues
As mentioned, brake actuators are another weak point, particularly in models from 2010 onwards. This issue can cause unpredictable braking behavior, posing a significant safety concern. Brake repairs on the Lexus LS 460 are notoriously expensive, with replacements sometimes exceeding $2,000.
Part 4: Most Reliable Lexus LS 460 Model Years
2012 Lexus LS 460
The 2012 Lexus LS 460 is widely regarded as one of the most reliable models, thanks to improvements in key areas such as transmission reliability and air suspension durability. Fewer issues were reported, making it a popular choice for used car buyers.
2015 Lexus LS 460
The 2015 model is another standout in terms of reliability. By this year, Lexus had addressed many of the transmission and suspension problems that plagued earlier models. The infotainment system was also more refined, and fewer complaints were made regarding electronic failures.
2017 Lexus LS 460
As one of the latest models of the LS 460, the 2017 Lexus LS 460 benefitted from over a decade of improvements. It offers a smoother ride, fewer mechanical issues, and a high resale value, making it one of the best years to consider.
FAQs about Lexus LS 460 Years to Avoid
1. Which years of the Lexus LS 460 should I be cautious about?
- Many experts suggest being cautious about the 2007, 2008, and 2010 models. These years have reported a higher incidence of issues compared to others.
2. What specific problems have been reported for these years?
- 2007-2008: These models have had complaints about engine oil consumption and issues with the air suspension.
- 2010: There are reports of transmission problems and some electrical issues.
3. Are there any recalls associated with these models?
- Yes, several recalls have been issued over the years for different models, including issues related to airbags and braking systems. Always check the specific VIN for recall history.
4. What should I look for when inspecting a used Lexus LS 460?
- Look for signs of excessive oil consumption, check the air suspension for leaks, and test the transmission’s responsiveness. A comprehensive service history is also important.
5. Is the Lexus LS 460 generally reliable?
- Overall, the LS 460 is known for its reliability, but like any vehicle, certain years have more reported problems. Regular maintenance can mitigate many issues.
6. Should I consider an extended warranty?
- If you’re looking at one of the more problematic years, an extended warranty might provide peace of mind against potential repairs.
7. What are the benefits of choosing a later model?
- Newer models, like those from 2012 onward, generally have fewer reported issues and may come with updated technology and features.
