Model year

2013 Lexus IS

Sedan, gasoline, 4x2, built in Japan. Owner complaints on file from Sep 25, 2013 to Aug 6, 2026.

Recall campaigns covering this model year0No recall campaign lists this model year
Owner complaints9Below the median 2013 sedan
Severity index22.22013 sedans average 7.7
First 24 months1Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2013 Lexus IS peaked in 2020, with 3 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

012320132015201720193202120232026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

44% of complaints about the 2013 Lexus IS name visibility and wipers

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Visibility and wipers
4
Engine and cooling
3
Airbags
1
Fuel system
1
Seats
1
Structure
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

No recall campaign lists the 2013 Lexus IS

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2013 Lexus IS

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

9 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.

  1. Filed Aug 6, 2026Failure Jul 15, 2026Indio, CAEngine

    2013 Lexus IS 350C with approximately 56,000 miles experienced engine smoking on startup. The vehicle has been regularly maintained according to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule. The Lexus dealership diagnosed oil entering the combustion chamber and documented that the cylinder walls are scratched, allowing oil to pass the oil-control piston rings. Based on the internal engine damage, the Lexus dealer has recommended complete engine replacement. I am concerned that this type of significant internal engine damage at only approximately 56,000 miles could result in progressive oil consumption, loss of engine performance and potentially engine failure while the vehicle is being operated. The vehicle has not been abused or subjected to unusually high mileage and has received regular maintenance. Lexus corporate was contacted regarding the premature engine failure and a request for goodwill assistance was denied. I am submitting this complaint because I believe an engine requiring complete replacement due to scratched cylinder walls at approximately 56,000 miles warrants review to determine whether similar failures involving the piston rings, cylinder walls or oil entering the combustion chambers have occurred in other Lexus vehicles equipped with this engine.

    NHTSA complaint 11755295
  2. Filed Sep 3, 2024Failure Mar 8, 2024Fayetteville, NCWindshield, Visibility

    See attached document for complaint.

    NHTSA complaint 11612237
  3. Filed Aug 22, 2024Failure Aug 21, 2024Houston, TXVisibility/wiperCrash

    This model was affected by the originally cosmetic, but well documented "sticky dash" recall. I am an automotive enthusiast who has worked within the industry for over 12 years, including notifying customers of NHTSA recalls and assisting with scheduling recalls to be performed. The dashboard can be severely melted to the point of becoming a mirror finish, I was driving at night in the headlights from an opposing truck reflected off the shiny surface of the dashboard having been melted by sunlight. I have great vision and was wearing prescription lenses, the incident nearly caused an oncoming collision. I slid into a ditch briefly and did not sustain damage to my vehicle.

    NHTSA complaint 11610108
  4. Filed Mar 19, 2024Failure Dec 14, 2023Rome, GAVisibility/wiper

    The dashboard is melting - it is sticky and shiny. The glare it causes on the windshield is horrific. I have a very difficult time seeing when the sun is out. An independent service center has inspected and confirmed it is caused by the melting dashboard. I first noticed it a few months ago. I travel to Nashville often, which is a 3.5 hour drive, and the sight obstruction at interstate driving speeds and traffic is challenging to say the least. I am afraid to drive my car with my granddaughter in with me because it is truly dangerous.

    NHTSA complaint 11578247
  5. Filed Aug 30, 2023Failure Apr 3, 2023Artesia, NMUnknown or other

    I am writing to bring to your attention the grave matter of odometer rollback fraud, consumer law violations, and a series of fraudulent activities that have occurred in connection with my recent vehicle purchase. I am seeking a settlement of $60,000 to rectify the significant damages and hardships I have endured as a result of these unethical practices. The issues at hand stem from the fraudulent rollback of the odometer by 100,000 miles on the vehicle I purchased from a moving rides dealership. This deception has not only violated various consumer protection laws and Department of Motor Vehicle regulations but has also endangered my safety and well-being by knowingly selling me a vehicle that was not roadworthy and unsafe to operate . In light of these unfortunate events, I would like to detail a few aspects for which I am seeking compensation: 1. Reimbursement for Travel Expenses: I incurred considerable expenses, both monetary and time-wise, traveling a total of 1,025 miles for trips related to the purchase and subsequent issues with the vehicle. The 22 hours spent on the road and the three days of missed work have imposed severe financial strain. 2. Insurance Payment Refund: I was coerced into obtaining insurance coverage before taking possession of the vehicle, due to misrepresentation of the condition of the vehicle I didn’t get to take the car home till three weeks after the purchase. 3. Down Payment Refund: The undue distress caused by this fraudulent transaction warrants the return of my initial down payment. 4. Legal Fees and Filing Costs: Pursuing justice has come at a significant cost, both in terms of legal representation and filing fees, which I believe should be compensated. 5. Vehicle Rental Reimbursement: The unsafe condition of the purchased vehicle, compounded by expired tags, made it essential for me to secure alternative transportation for both work and personal use. 6. Restitution for Pain and Suffering

    NHTSA complaint 11541681
  6. Filed Apr 22, 2020Failure Mar 1, 202075,137 milesChula Vista, CAEngine

    VALLEY PLATE LEAK DUE TO THE FACT THAT TOYOTA/LEXUS UTILIZED THE IMPROPER SEALANT AND USED THE IMPROPER AMOUNT, LEADING TO THE HEAT EXCHANGER LEAKING COOLANT ONCE THE ORIGINAL, INADEQUATE SEALANT BEGINS TO DISENTEGRATE. THIS COULD CAUSE A CONDITION WHERE THE ENGINE COULD FAIL AND SOMEONE COULD GET HURT. FURTHERMORE, ALL ISFS WILL EVENTUALLY HAVE A CRACKED RH MANIFOLD ON THE #8 RUNNER. THIS CAN CAUSE A FIRE HAZARD IN ADDITION TO CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING.

    NHTSA complaint 11321929
  7. Filed Apr 8, 2020Failure Mar 13, 202064,189 milesGilbert, AZEngine, Visibility/wiper

    EXHAUST HEADER LEAK, AUDIBLE TICKING SOUND ONCE WARMED UP IN DRIVE

    NHTSA complaint 11320477
  8. Filed Mar 17, 2020Failure Jan 3, 202055,000 milesAlamogordo, NMFuel/propulsion system

    THE FUEL PUMP FAILED WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, CAUSING THE MOTOR TO STALL AND DIE. WAS UNABLE TO RESTART THE MOTOR AND WAS TOWED FROM THE HIGHWAY TO A DEALER WHERE THE FUEL PUMP WAS REPLACED.

    NHTSA complaint 11318502
  9. Filed Sep 25, 2013Failure Aug 15, 20138,000 milesMadison, TNAir bags, Seats, BodyCrash3 injured

    WHILE PARK AT A STOP LIGHT, THE AUTO, THIRD IN LINE WAS IMPACTED BY A TRUCK TRAVELING 40-50 MPH, NO BRAKING, AND HIT AND RUN. MY WIFE WAS ALONE IN THE CAR, WHICH WAS DRIVEN INTO A PICKUP AND SUBSEQUENTLY INTO A BUICK. OF THE 12 AIRBAGS AVAILABLE, NOT ONE ACTUATED, CAUSING SERIOUS INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL BRUISING WITH THE SEAT BELT AND STEERING WHEEL IMPACT. THE DRIVERS SEAT BROKE LOOSE FROM ITS MOUNTING, DAMAGE MORE THAN $50,000. IN ADDITION, A BROKEN WRIST RESULTED. COMPLAINTS TO THE LOCAL DEALER CONCERNING LACK OF SAFETY FROM AIR BAGS WENT UNANSWERED AND COMMENTS FROM NATIONAL OFFICE SAID THE AIR BAGS WERE NOT SUPPOSED TO OPERATE. SINCE SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE OCCURRED, SHE IS AFRAID TO RIDE IN THE VEHICLE AS WE CONSIDER IT UNSAFE. I DID NOT KNOW WHO ELSE TO COMPLAIN TO AND AM ADDING THIS NOTE TO WHAT WILL PROBABLY BE A GROWING DATABASE. I COULD NOT PROVIDE THE VIN, AS THE CAR HAS STILL NOT BEEN REPAIRED. *JS

    NHTSA complaint 10545321
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

41 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall.

  • L-SB-0030-24 Rev2 Dec 15, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2026 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to…
  • L-SB-0032-25 Jul 30, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2016 – 2020 model year GS F, 2008 – 2014 model year IS F, 2022 – 2025 model year IS 500, 2018 – 2025 model year LC 500, 2021 – 2025 model year LC 500c, and 2015 – 2025 model year RC F vehicles with 2UR-GSE engines may exhibit a MIL ON condition with on…
  • L-SB-0043-23 Rev1 Jun 13, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The air conditioning dye injection tool kit has been developed to aid in identifying the location of air conditioning refrigerant leaks. The procedures outlined in this Service Bulletin aid in locating, inspecting, and repairing refrigerant leaks.
  • L-SB-0017-19 Rev1 Feb 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2010 – 2026 model year Lexus vehicles may exhibit paint stains after the removal of Rapgard™. The paint stains may appear to be under the clear coat but are usually under wrinkles in the Rapgard™. The wrinkles may trap water and cause the paint to stai…
  • L-SB-0017-19 Rev1 Feb 7, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2010 – 2026 model year Lexus vehicles may exhibit paint stains after the removal of Rapgard™. The paint stains may appear to be under the clear coat but are usually under wrinkles in the Rapgard™. The wrinkles may trap water and cause the paint to stai…
  • L-SB-0030-24 Rev1 Jul 29, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2024 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to…
  • L-SB-0030-24 Rev1 Jul 29, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2024 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to…
  • L-SB-0030-24 Jun 21, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2024 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty smell is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is t…
  • L-SB-0030-24 Jun 21, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2005 – 2024 Lexus vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty smell is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is t…
  • L-SB-0023-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before…
  • L-SB-0024-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especi…
  • L-SB-0022-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and deckl…
  • L-SB-0021-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Lexus vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to…
  • L-SB-0020-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small…
  • L-SB-0023-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before…
  • L-SB-0024-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especi…
  • L-SB-0022-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and deckl…
  • L-SB-0021-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Lexus vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to…
  • L-SB-0020-24 Apr 19, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small…
  • LSB004323 Aug 21, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    TSB: The air conditioning dye injection tool kit has been developed to aid in identifying the location of air conditioning refrigerant leaks. Follow the procedures outlined in this service bulletin to aid in locating, inspecting, and repairing refrigerant l…
  • Safety Recall 22 Apr 13, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Lexus Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements 4.13.2022
  • Lexus PRO19-02 - Jan 12, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    POL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Lexus. This information must be kept near the point of vehicle sale and be available to any customer that requests i…
  • LTT016014 Jul 22, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    DCM Activation is not Applicable when Safety Connect/Lexus enform service has expired
  • LTT014513 Nov 2, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Spots in Window Glass - vehicle exterior
  • LTT011613 Feb 27, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Navigation/Multi Info Display Day Mode Operation - Audio/Visaul/Telematics
  • LTT006811A Jul 2, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Suspension - Best Practice for Tire Totation/Nitrogen Filling
  • LTT003110A Jul 25, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Adhesive & Sealant Cross Reference Information/ Engine Hybrid System
  • LTT003110 Jul 25, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Adhesive & Sealant Cross Reference Information/ Engine Hybrid System
  • LTT000110A Aug 6, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Oil Viscosity Applicability and Cfhange Interval Guide
  • LTT000110 Apr 10, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Oil Viscosity Applicability and Cfhange Interval Guide
  • LSB008214 Oct 16, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Auto matic Transmission Replacement kPrecautions
  • Lexus Safety Re Mar 31, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Lexus Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
  • KLG_19LE05-TI-Up Aug 24, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    TI: TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIMITED SERVICE CAMPAIGN KLG CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM 19LE05 SAFETY CONNECT SYSTEM ? VEHICLE LOCATION INACCURATE
  • KLG_19LE05-TI-Up Aug 24, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    TI: TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIMITED SERVICE CAMPAIGN KLG CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM 19LE05 SAFETY CONNECT SYSTEM ? VEHICLE LOCATION INACCURATE
  • Lexus Safety Re May 1, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
  • 19LE05-KLG - TI- Oct 17, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Technical Instructions: TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIMITED SERVICE CAMPAIGN KLG CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM 19LE05 SAFETY CONNECT SYSTEM ? VEHICLE LOCATION INACCURATE CERTAIN 2011 ? 2017 MODEL YEAR LS, 2013 ? 2016 MODEL YEAR LS Hybrid, 2011 ? 2017 MODEL YEAR …
  • L-SB-0060-13 Rev Nov 10, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    TSB: REVISION NOTICE November 10, 2016 Rev1: ? Applicability has been updated to include 2015 ? 2017 model year applicable Lexus vehicles. ? The Parts Information section has been updated. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discar…
  • L-SB-0021-14 Rev Sep 19, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    TSB: Revision Notice: Applicability section has been updated to include 2016-2017 applicable model year Lexus vehicles. The Repair Procedure section, Required Tools & Equipment section, and the Repair Procedure section has been updated. Flash reprogramm…
  • L-SB-0014-08_Rev Mar 22, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    TSB: REVISION NOTICE March 22, 2017 Rev2: ? Applicability has been updated to include 2016-2017 model year Lexus vehicles. ? February 11, 2015 Rev1: Applicability has been updated to include 2006 ? 2015 model year Lexus vehicles. On some vehicles, when R…
  • L-TT-0126-13 Mar 6, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
  • LTT-0111-13 Jan 16, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    LEXUS: SOME VEHICLES COME WITH THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEMS (SRS) AND TO HELP REDUCE INJURIES IN A COLLISION, SEAT BELT PRE-TENSIONERS DEVICES, THAT MAY OR MAY NOT PERFORM AS EXPECTED. MODELS YEARS LISTED 1990-2013. *PE
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.