Lexus IS 250 XE20 buying guide

2005 to 2013. An IS 250 suits a buyer who wants a refined, reliable rear drive sedan and will check the carbon and recall history.

Workshop jobs

Carbon build up (IS 250). The IS 250 has a carbon build up problem that hurts performance and needs a costly clean. Lexus ran an extended service program for it in some markets.
Brake master cylinder. A 2010 recall covered brake fluid damaging a seal and causing master cylinder leaks.
Dashboard cracking (pre 2009). Older dashboards can crack in sun and heat; Lexus changed the material in 2009.
Seized seats, sunroof and headlight adjusters. Seats, sunroof and headlight adjusters can seize from little use, and parking sensors and active cruise need testing on the move.
Engine warning light and company car abuse. A flashing engine light can mean a fuel mixture problem that can harm pistons or a gearbox on the way out. Former company cars can be scuffed and kerbed.

Fuel pressure sensor gasket recall. A defective fuel pressure sensor gasket on 2005 to 2010 cars led to a 2014 recall of more than 10,000 cars after fires overseas, after an earlier fuel system recall.

Researched 2026-11-05. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.