Lexus LS Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Lexus LS is the flagship luxury saloon in the Lexus lineup. Known for its silent ride, comfort, and reliability, it has long been a rival to the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series. Built with precision and attention to detail, the LS is famous for lasting hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues. However, like any luxury vehicle, it can develop faults as it ages. From air suspension leaks to hybrid battery wear, repairs can be expensive. This article explains common Lexus LS problems and typical UK repair costs.
Lexus LS Model Overview
The Lexus LS has been produced for over three decades and includes several versions:
- LS 400 (1989–2000) – Simple, smooth, and bulletproof V8 reliability.
- LS 430 (2000–2006) – Added more electronics, air suspension, and luxury options.
- LS 460 (2006–2017) – Introduced an 8-speed gearbox and advanced tech.
- LS 600h (2007–2017) – Combined a 5.0-litre V8 with hybrid efficiency.
- LS 500/500h (2017–present) – Latest generation with turbocharged V6 and hybrid versions.
All models share Lexus’s famous reliability, but some parts and systems can fail with age.
Common Lexus LS Problems and Repair Costs
1. Air Suspension Leaks
Problem: The adaptive air suspension delivers exceptional ride comfort but can leak as the car ages. Symptoms include the car sitting low on one side or a harsh ride.
Repair Cost: £800 to £1,500 per corner
2. Hybrid Battery Degradation (LS 600h and LS 500h)
Problem: Over time, the hybrid battery may lose efficiency, reducing fuel economy or triggering warning lights.
Repair Cost: £1,200 to £2,800
3. Power Steering Pump Leak
Problem: Fluid leaks from the power steering pump or hoses are common in older LS models, making the steering feel heavy.
Repair Cost: £350 to £650
4. Timing Cover Oil Leak (LS 460 and LS 430)
Problem: Oil can leak from the timing cover gasket, often requiring extensive labour to fix.
Repair Cost: £700 to £1,200
5. Transmission Valve Body Wear
Problem: Automatic gearbox shifting can become rough or delayed due to valve body wear or dirty transmission fluid.
Repair Cost: £600 to £1,000
6. Infotainment or Screen Failure
Problem: Touchscreen display or navigation screen may fail, freeze, or show dead pixels.
Repair Cost: £500 to £900
7. Oxygen Sensor and Catalytic Converter Failure
Problem: Faulty sensors can cause poor fuel economy or trigger the engine warning light.
Repair Cost: £150 to £300 per sensor, £800 to £1,200 for catalytic converter replacement
8. Engine Mount Wear
Problem: Worn mounts cause noticeable vibration, especially in older LS 400 and LS 430 models.
Repair Cost: £350 to £600
9. Brake Actuator Fault (Hybrid Models)
Problem: In hybrid LS models, a failing brake actuator can make the pedal hard and trigger a warning light.
Repair Cost: £1,000 to £1,800
10. Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
Problem: The air conditioning system may stop blowing cold air due to a failed compressor or leak.
Repair Cost: £700 to £1,200
Routine Maintenance and Running Costs
| Service Type | Description | Typical UK Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Service | Oil, filter, and inspection | £250 – £350 |
| Major Service | Full fluid and system check | £500 – £800 |
| Hybrid Health Check | Battery system test | £60 – £120 |
| Brake Fluid Replacement | Every 2 years | £80 – £150 |
| Air Suspension Check | Leak and height test | £150 – £300 |
Regular maintenance keeps the Lexus LS reliable and helps prevent expensive repairs later.
Is the Lexus LS Reliable?
Yes, the Lexus LS is one of the most reliable luxury saloons ever built. Owners report that the petrol V8 engines can easily last over 200,000 miles if serviced on time.
Hybrid versions are also dependable, though battery replacements are costly. Electronics, air suspension, and sensors are the most common sources of problems, but the overall reliability rating is still higher than most European luxury cars.
Buying Advice and Pre-Purchase Inspection
If you’re buying a used Lexus LS, check the following:
- Air suspension height and operation
- Signs of oil or coolant leaks
- Transmission shift quality
- Functioning of all infotainment screens
- Any warning lights on the dashboard
A CAREXAMER pre-purchase inspection can check all of these areas in detail and help you avoid expensive surprises.
Summary of Lexus LS Problems and Repair Costs
| Problem | Description | Typical UK Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Suspension Leak | Ride height drops | £800 – £1,500 |
| Hybrid Battery Failure | Loss of performance | £1,200 – £2,800 |
| Power Steering Leak | Fluid loss | £350 – £650 |
| Timing Cover Leak | Oil seepage | £700 – £1,200 |
| Transmission Issue | Harsh shifting | £600 – £1,000 |
| Infotainment Fault | Screen or control failure | £500 – £900 |
| Oxygen Sensor Fault | Emission warning | £150 – £300 |
| Brake Actuator Fault | Hard pedal | £1,000 – £1,800 |
| Air Conditioning Fault | No cold air | £700 – £1,200 |
Conclusion
The Lexus LS is a luxury car that combines comfort, technology, and exceptional build quality. It is more reliable than most of its European rivals, but maintenance costs can be high due to advanced features like hybrid systems and air suspension.
Typical UK repair costs range from £150 for small sensor replacements to around £2,800 for hybrid battery repairs.
If you’re considering buying one, a CAREXAMER inspection is highly recommended. It ensures your Lexus LS remains as smooth, quiet, and dependable as the brand is known for.
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