Last updated: 2026-03-04
2018 Lexus IS Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2018 Lexus IS scores 81/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 2 recalls and 6 owner complaints.
2018 is year 5 of the Third generation (XE30).
Recalls
2
Complaints
6
Complaint Rate
2.6
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$551
Major Repair Risk
N/A
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.
Top Issues
2 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is year 5 of the Third generation (XE30).
- Redesigned for the 2014 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- A refresh arrives in 2020.
- 3rd generation IS (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
Third generation (XE30)
Should You Buy the 2018 Lexus IS?
The 2018 Lexus IS earns an Excellent 81/100 reliability score. 2018 is year 5 of the Third generation (XE30).
Its complaint rate (2.6 per 10k sold) sits below the Sedan segment average, and most owners report a trouble-free ownership experience.
A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, whether purchased new or used.
Compared to the 2019 Lexus IS, which scored 2 points lower.
Pros
- Strong reliability score
- Low recall count
- Below-average complaint rate for Sedan
- 5-star NHTSA crash rating
- Well-established generation
Cons
- STRUCTURE: Owners of the 2018 Lexus IS report incidents involving the sunroof unexpectedly... (2 complaints)
- Fuel system issues reported at 15,000 miles
Compare 2018 Lexus IS With
2018 BMW 5-Series
Score: 59/100
2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Score: 55/100
2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Score: 51/100
2018 BMW 4-Series
Score: 54/100
2018 Lexus NX
Score: 79/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- STRUCTURE (2)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
- FUEL SYSTEM (1)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2018 Lexus IS has 2 recalls on record. This is a low count. Recalls are manufacturer-initiated fixes for safety or compliance issues and are repaired at no cost to the owner at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
2.6
per 10k soldSegment avg: 25.7
Safety Incidents
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
2
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Lexus IS Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Lexus IS. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Consequence
If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.
2018 Lexus IS NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.5%
Safety Technologies
Lexus IS Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4.5Maintenance rating: 4.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$551
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2018 Lexus IS Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Brake Hose Replacement | $227 – $291 |
| Blower Motor Replacement | $442 – $478 |
| Drive Axle Assembly Leak Inspection | $76 – $112 |
| AC Compressor Clutch Replacement | $1,424 – $1,566 |
| Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement | $358 – $466 |
| Axle Shaft Seal Replacement | $431 – $618 |
| Liftgate Glass Support Strut Replacement | $188 – $217 |
| Heater Hose Replacement | $417 – $517 |
| Parking Brake Shoe Replacement | $477 – $619 |
| Air Conditioning Receiver Drier Assembly Replacement | $544 – $852 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
When Buying a Used 2018 Lexus IS
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect sunroof for any signs of stress or damage
- Test acceleration from a stop to check for stalling or sluggish response
- Verify completion of fuel system recall repair
- Check for unusual noises from the engine or under the hood during a test drive
Check Any 2018 Lexus IS's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2018 IS in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Lexus IS with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2018 Lexus IS Common Problems by Component
6 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Lexus IS report incidents involving the sunroof unexpectedly exploding while driving. Complaints frequently mention a loud noise resembling a gunshot prior to the sunroof shattering, often with no apparent external cause. In one case, the incident resulted in an injury when glass entered the driver's eye. These events typically occur at highway speeds, and one report notes a temperature of 37 degrees Fahrenheit at the time of the incident. Potential buyers should be aware of the risk of injury due to shattering glass from the sunroof.
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintSafety-related2018 LEXUS IS 300. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE STALLING WHILE TRYING TO MAKE A U-TURN. *LD *JS
FUEL SYSTEM
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2018 Lexus IS300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle felt sluggish. The contact then heard an abnormal cranking noise underneath the hood of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure could not be duplicated. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that she recorded the noise then took the vehicle back to the dealer; however, the dealer informed her that the fuel injectors might need to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, while the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The contact stated that additional pressure on the accelerator pedal was needed for the vehicle to perform as designed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was notified of a possible buy back. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaintTL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 LEXUS IS 300. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V012000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT REACHED OUT TO LEXUS OF NORTH MIAMI LOCATED AT (14100 BISCAYNE BLVD, NORTH MIAMI, FL 33181) AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintWHEN I ACCELERATE FROM A STOP OR WHILE MOVING ON A ROADWAY, THE ENGINE SEEMS TO STALL. I'M NOT TALKING ABOUT THE NORMAL TURBO SPOOLING STALL. IT LASTS FOR ABOUT 3 TO 5 FULL SECONDS. WHEN YOU NEED POWER TO PREVENT AN ACCIDENT, YOU CAN'T AFFORD THAT TIME LAG, AS IT COULD CAUSE YOUR DEATH. THE DEALER TOLD ME THAT LEXUS SAYS IT'S NORMAL, THEY ALL DO IT. I DON'T FEEL ANY MANUFACTURER WOULD DELIBERATELY BUILD AND SELL A VEHICLE THAT WOULD PUT THE OCCUPANTS IN DANGER OF POSSIBLE DEATH. THE DEALER PICKED UP THE CAR AND AFTER FIVE DAYS CALLED ME TO SAY NOTHING IS WRONG AND THEY CAN'T FIX THE PROBLEM BECAUSE LEXUS COMPANY SAYS IT'S NORMAL. AT THIS POINT I'M REFUSING TO DRIVE THE CAR, IT'S EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. I HAVE ONLY DRIVEN IT ABOUT 188 MILES SINCE BUYING IT ALMOST 1 MONTH AGO. I CALLED THE DEALER ABOUT MY CONCERN AFTER HAVING THE CAR ONLY 20 DAYS.
When Do 2018 Lexus IS Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Lexus IS Years
Best Lexus IS Years to Buy
The best Lexus IS year is 2025 with a reliability score of 83/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (83/100) and 2023 (83/100).
Lexus IS Years to Avoid
No Lexus IS years are statistical outliers in our data — all years score consistently.
See full Lexus IS years-to-avoid analysis →Lexus IS Reliability Score Trend
Lexus IS reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 82/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2019 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 83/100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 83/100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 83/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 83/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 83/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 83/100 | Excellent |
Lexus IS Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 83/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | 83/100 | 0 | Excellent | 0 | 1 |
| 2024 | 83/100 | 0 | Excellent | 0 | 3 |
| 2023 | 83/100 | 0 | Excellent | 0 | 9 |
| 2022 | 83/100 | 0 | Excellent | 0 | 13 |
| 2021 | 83/100 | 0 | Excellent | 0 | 1 |
| 2020 | 83/100 | +4 | Excellent | 0 | 3 |
| 2019 | 79/100 | -2 | Good | 4 | 8 |
| 2018(selected) | 81/100 | — | Excellent | 2 | 6 |
2018 Lexus IS Common Questions
10 questions from 2018 Lexus IS owners.
Stalling and stopping
My vehicle only has 30,800,000 miles. If the fuel pump which is a recalled part is the manufacture responsible There is no way of knowing, it stalls when accelerating A few days
No power steering
i just bought a 2006 lexus rx400h and i have zero power steering, a p/s light and "check hybrid system" and "check vsc system" as well as p1421, p3298, c1310, c1336 codes, it has a brand new car battery More than a week
Braking malfunction
After about 100 miles all the dash lites came on,cel,anti skid parking brake ECT. It said pull over right away and have towed to dealer. Well I was not to far from home so drove it home. The brake pedal was very hard to push so I drove slow and tried not to use brake pedal. I could use it if I did it gently. Next morning , drove it to shop and they called me back and said they got a code c1247 which was brake pedal stroke sensor. Replaced that and had it calibrated. After driving around 70 miles it did the same thing. Stiff brake ,lites on dash, so took it back and it came back with the same code so they erased the code on the obd and it drives perfect until I hit the 70 mi and does it again. This has happened like 5times and even took it to different shops. All they do is reset code and they tell me it is good to go .Could it be in the brake booster? When I tell them the problem is still there they all have said " it's probably the abs module but they are just guessing. Booster? When the dash lites are off it rides perfect for 70 miles or so More than a month
Repair estimate
Is it worth it to repair a 2007 Lexus RX400h that needs the compressor, condenser and hybrid battery replaced? Car no longer turns on. The heat/AC would make the car run rough. More than a month
Seatbelt alarm
The seatbelt alarm for the rear middle seatbelt goes off even when no one is sitting in the back seats and no items are on the seats either. The only way I’ve been keeping this from triggering every time I drive is to keep the middle seatbelt latched. I’ve been told that it is a faulty sensor in the latch and it should be replaced. Is this the only way? More than a year
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Lexus IS reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Lexus IS?
How many recalls does the 2018 Lexus IS have?
Is the 2018 Lexus IS expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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