2013 Lexus CT

43 complaints on file, page 1 of 3.

1. Filed Jan 25, 2026Failure Jul 1, 2024Oakland Park, FLService brakes

   This is a known defect covered under Customer Support Program 21-LE-01. Lexus failed to notify me despite regular service at their dealership. I was forced to pay $3,000 for a safety defect that should have been covered

   NHTSA complaint 11713182
2. Filed Dec 5, 2025Failure Dec 3, 2025Sterling, VAService brakes

   I am submitting a formal complaint regarding Lexus’ refusal to correct a known safety-related defect under Customer Support Program (CSP) 21LE01. My vehicle meets all criteria outlined in the program, yet Lexus denied coverage. Details: 1.Program Coverage: CSP 21LE01 covers Brake Booster and Brake Booster Pump assemblies for internal malfunctions verified by Diagnostic Trouble Codes C1391, C1252, C1256, or C1253. Coverage extends 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. 2.Vehicle Qualification: •Mileage: under 150,000 miles •Model year/production range: covered under CSP 21LE01 •Symptoms: brake-system warning lights, reduced braking performance, and internal malfunctions •DTCs: C1391, C1252, C1256, C1253 confirmed 3.Lack of Notification: Lexus indicates that owners were notified of this program starting May 2021. I never received any notice, despite my contact information being current with the DMV. 4.Denial of Repair: Despite the vehicle qualifying under all CSP 21LE01 criteria, Lexus informed me I am “not eligible” for the repair. This refusal directly contradicts the program’s published requirements. Safety Concern: This defect affects the brake system, a critical safety component. Denying the repair for a qualifying vehicle exposes the driver and others on the road to potential brake failure and increased risk of accident. If the brake booster/pump fails while driving, braking can become hard, delayed, or fail completely, greatly increasing the risk of accidents, collisions, injury, or death. Request: I am requesting that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigate Lexus’ denial of a safety-related repair and compel the manufacturer to honor the repair coverage under CSP 21LE01 for my vehicle.

   NHTSA complaint 11703287
3. Filed Oct 13, 2025Failure Oct 1, 2025Brownsville, TXService brakes

   My daughter was driving home at night and the vehicle brakes did not respond normally after coming to a gated entry, she was able to stop with limited braking power and luckily she did not get into an accident. The vehicle gave no warning prior to the incident, and started to show all 4 lights on the dash after the fact;BRAKE, CAUTION, ABS, Stability Control with a beeping sound. She had to stop the vehicle immediately because we felt if was unsafe to do so. The car was stored in the garage for a few days waiting for the codes to get scanned but after starting it the errors were gone, I was able to take a long drive without a problem. Then once again while driving (not when starting the vehicle) the codes reappeared and have been scanned and shows multiple errors; C1252, C1253, C1256, and C1391. This corresponds to the errors in the Brake Booster Pump. Now the car is beeping all the time and probably needs expensive repairs. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.

   NHTSA complaint 11693122
4. Filed Sep 23, 2025Failure Mar 31, 2024200,000 milesTuscumbia, ALPower train, Service brakes, Hydraulic

   The contact owns a 2013 Lexus CT 200H. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed with the cruise control activated, the brake pedal was depressed and the ABS, traction control, and master warning lights illuminated. The message "Check ABS System" was displayed. The cruise control feature then became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who retrieved DTC: C1391, indicating an abnormal leak in the brake actuator accumulator; however, the contact was unaware of which parts needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the transmission later failed to shift into drive(D) or reverse(R). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

   NHTSA complaint 11689139
5. Filed Aug 29, 2025Failure Jul 21, 2025Bakersfield, CAAdaptive cruise control, Service brakes, Unknown or other

   Driving down the 99Freeway at speeds approx. Up to 72mph, my abs,traction, and brake lights illuminated at the same time on my dash. I pushed on my brake pedal in order to slow down and pull over, my brake pedal was extremely hard to push in and no matter how hard I pushed it didn't appear to be slowing the vehicle down. I pushed on the emergency brake slowly to help slow down safely and was able to get pulled over. I turned the car off and proceeded to call a friend for help. My friend suggested that I start the vehicle back up and see if I was comfortable enough to continuing to drive it to get myself off of the freeway, which I did. Then when I got off the freeway, I noticed all the lights had gone off and the car felt like it was driving normal again. I proceeded home. The following day my check engine light came on saying to check hybrid system. After being informed to clear the check engine to reset everything my car seemed fine. Then approximately 3 weeks later the abs, traction and brake light came back on and I had difficulty braking. This time and alarm started beeping inside my car as well, the check engine light saying traction battery is not charging and my vehicle does not want to stop. I've been researching different forums online and I'm seeing a numerous amount of other Toyota and Lexus owners with very similar complaints with their cars as well. I've replaced my brake pads, replaced my 12v battery and key fob battery as well. So far I still have no brakes and this is my only vehicle so I'm really hoping this turns out to be a recall or something cause I can't afford to do the repairs .

   NHTSA complaint 11684014
6. Filed Mar 28, 2025Failure Mar 19, 2025duluth, GAAdaptive cruise control, Automatic emergency braking, Service brakes

   Hydraulic pump problem

   NHTSA complaint 11651417
7. Filed Dec 16, 2024Failure Dec 4, 2024Holyoke, MAService brakes

   The brake booster and pump are a known issue for all CT200 models 2011-2013. The brakes do not work as intended which is a safety issue. The attached file is acknowledgement by Lexus that this is an issue. Though they are not covering the problem

   NHTSA complaint 11630875
8. Filed Jun 29, 2024Failure Mar 20, 2024San pablo, CAEngine

   Early morning cold start in open loop engine starts to rattle and knock. Cleaned out EGR system, including intake manifold. Engine still rattles and knocks. Swapped out ignition coils and fuel injectors with new still and still the same thing. DTC sets after a week of troubleshooting for P0303, P0301, and P0300. Switched cylinder ignition coils and fuel injectors from cylinder 1 to 2 and 3 to 4. Same DTC sets after drive cycle. Leak down test confirms cylinder 3 has head gasket leak. Registration was just paid and was going to have it smog test. Unable to pass smog due to check engine light. I had went to Lexus dealer to have them update my car for EGR update according to TSB (see attachment) but they wouldn’t do it unless I pay $300 SMFH!!! What a day! Which engineer suggested this stupid design?!?! And wtf the EGR cooler, more like a heater, has coolant running into housing which raises the engine coolant temp. Exhaust gas may go up to a temp of 600 degrees!! Look at live data and monitor catalyst temp from OBD2. This design was to intentionally cause a head gasket failure. Blades in EGR cooler gets clogged with carbon build up, where carbon will eventually break up into chunks/pebbles that will cause pre-ignition during compression stroke, pinging the engine which will result in misfires and damage the catalyst. One of the worst designs I’ve ever encountered as a car owner. This is ridiculous that this issue has been brought up countless times from thousands of testimony’s of same incident but not even a single word for these models. CT200h and Prius years 2012-2015 have this same dam problem and everyone knows this, even the CA BAR(Bureau of automotive repair). What is it that we as car owners, who abide by the law, and pay our fair share of taxes gets this “setup to fail” deal???

   NHTSA complaint 11597715
9. Filed Jun 1, 2024Failure May 29, 2024Miami, FLService brakes

   dash lit up like a xmas tree; braking became immediately unpredictable, spongy, and difficult to stop the car. error code c1391.

   NHTSA complaint 11591893
10. Filed Mar 27, 2024Failure Mar 13, 2024San Mateo, CAService brakes

    My Ct200h has now recently started to leak fluid from the brake system has started to malfunction due to this known problem by Lexus on their 2013 CT200h brake booster/master cylinder as well as the actuator system problem which they had previously put out a statement for. This is absolutely incomprehensible the scope of a dangerous situation this could have put my family in. Imagine if the brakes would have fully malfunctioned and I slammed into the back of a 18- wheeler, the whole top of this car is coming off including everyones heads in the car. I hope this reaches a competent individual who understands the scope of the malfunctioning in the brake system. This is supposed to slow a 2 ton car going from 65 mph to 0 at any instance, if the system malfunctions at the wrong time LIVES ARE PUT AT RISK. I have full service records through the dealer and constantly do routine maintenance with the dealer. I am highly disappointed in with this matter.

    NHTSA complaint 11579639
11. Filed Feb 5, 2024Failure Jan 4, 2024Santa Clara, CAService brakes

    There is a noise I am hearing while breaking which is the actuator trying to build pressure, but the pressure is being leaked out of the accumulator in the brake master cylinder, all of the “Brake” and “ABS” lights come on and you will hear the actuator about every three seconds or so. This is a dangerous mechanism which has been known already on a multitude of these same models. Please fix this, as it could have been a dangerous situation this vehicle could have put my family in.

    NHTSA complaint 11569870
12. Filed Dec 21, 2022Failure May 12, 2022Marlborough, CTEngine

    At about 165-170,000 miles Lexus dealer advised leaking oil from timing chain area. Apparently it is a known issue from this engine (both CT200h and Prius) suffer from this issue. Didn't realize there is a TSB but since way out of warranty and not a recall they offered to fix for $3500. Hard to see the leak as it is in the timing chain area so it rarely comes out of the engine itself. This should be something that Lexus/Toyota should advise their customers. Few months later car was totaled in an accident so I got rid of it.

    NHTSA complaint 11498387
13. Filed Nov 27, 2022Failure Oct 23, 2022Plantation, FLEngine

    I have to replace my 2013 Ct engine. When I started it, there was a horrible knocking noise. This came as a surprise, as it was fine the day before. I had it towed to Lexus. I was told that there was no oil in the engine and it needs to be replaced. What????? 1. No warning light came on 2. I had an oil change recently ( within the 5K scheduled maintenance). I was quoted a price of $6960.35 to replace the engine with an engine with around 92K miles ( about the same as what I have). I did some investigation and called Lexus customer engagement. I reached out to Lexus. They offered me $1500 towards the repair. The car is still in the shop. Owners of the CT200h have reportedly been told by Lexus dealers that this is regular oil consumption. However, Toyota did issue a technical service bulletin for these engines. However, they only did so for the ones installed in the Prius and had the same problem. Overall, CT200h owners were left hanging with an engine that uses an incredible amount of oil. I was told in a forum of Lexus owners ( discussion group) to contact this organization for help on this matter. Please investigate this issue.

    NHTSA complaint 11495069
14. Filed Aug 17, 2022Failure Aug 14, 2022Wesley Chapel, FLElectrical system, EngineFire

    DRIVING ON HIGHWAY AND ALL OF A SUDDEN AFTER A LOUD NOISE THE bottom of the vehicle went on fire. we called the fire department who put out the fire. After looking at the bottom I notice that the crankcase had a big hole. it seems that a valve went right through the cracnkcase. resulting in hot engine oil going on fire. The car is only 5 months old and Carmax will not pay for the repair which could cost me 5,000 dollars. I paid 27,000 for the car.

    NHTSA complaint 11479752
15. Filed Jun 8, 2022Failure Jun 8, 2022Desoto, TXEngine and engine cooling

    UNKNOWN: However, the engine is using 2 quarts of oil in less than 100 miles of traveling. It has been taken to the dealer several times for this problem of. Using oil through the engine with no leaks in the oil pan.

    NHTSA complaint 11468255
16. Filed Jun 1, 2022Failure May 31, 2022Streamwood, ILExterior lighting

    LED headlights are pointed downward and is set with auto leveling to adjust. The distance you can see isn't far enough and these need to be higher. There is no way to adjust these LED lights. With the halogen bulbs you have a level option to raise or lower. You do not with LEDs factory fitted.

    NHTSA complaint 11466884
17. Filed Apr 19, 2021Failure Jun 3, 201987,000 milesWaynesville, NCEngine

    PRIOR TO A LONG TRIP WE HAD THE OIL CHANGED AND FLUIDS TOPPED OFF WHEN WE ARRIVED TO OUR DESTINATION THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NO OIL IN THE CAR, NO OIL LEAKS JUST A COMPLETE BLOW OUT WHILE DRIVING WE NEVER SAW THE OIL LEAVING THE CAR, THIS HAS HAPPENED ON ALL OUR TRIPS AND WE ALWAYS MAKE SURE THERE IS OIL IN THE CAR , UPON ARRIVING TO A DESTINATION THERE WILL BE NO OIL LEFT. I UNDERSTAND THERE IS A BIG PROBLEM WITH THE OIL BLOWING OUT OF THE CAR

    NHTSA complaint 11412916
18. Filed Apr 7, 2021Failure Apr 6, 2021Jacksonville, FLService brakes

    ABS BRAKE ACTUATOR IS FAILING AND MAKING A LOUD NOISE WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE FOR LEXUS. CONTACTED LEXUS DEALER AND THEY TOLD ME THE CAR IS NOT COVERED UNDER ANY RECALLS OR WARRANTY EXTENSIONS.

    NHTSA complaint 11406837
19. Filed Mar 31, 2021Failure Feb 7, 202160,000 milesUpper Marlboro, MDService brakesCrash1 injured

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2016 2013 LEXUS CT200. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 20 MPH, THE BRAKES LOCKED UP NOT ALLOWING THE BRAKE PEDAL TO BE DEPRESSED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE RAN INTO A TELEPHONE POLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUFFERED A BROKEN COLLAR BONE, BROKEN LEFT HAND, AND A BROKEN FEMUR BONE. THE CONTACT DID RECEIVE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE AND WAS TOWED TO A JUNKYARD. THE CONTACT WAS RELATING THIS ISSUE TO THE REPAIRS TO THE LEFT CONTROL ARM PRIOR TO CRASHING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11405808
20. Filed Dec 4, 2020Failure Nov 6, 2020132,000 milesVancouver, WAEngine

    2013 LEXUS CT200H WITH 132,000 MILES. MADE A LOUD METALLIC SOUND WHILE TRYING TO START. TOWED TO LEXUS. AGREED TO $650 FOR DIAGNOSTIC TEST. DIAGNOSED LOW COMPRESSION 'THE RINGS AND PISTONS WERE SHOT' AND NOT WORTH FIXING- OVER $8,000 TO REBUILD. TOLD ME THEY HAD NEVER SEEN THIS HAPPEN ON A CT200H BUT ADMITTED SERVICE BULLETIN FOR EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. SERVICE REP WOULD NOT RECOMMEND A USED ENGINE DUE TO HIGH PROBABILITY OF RECURRENCE.

    NHTSA complaint 11377897