IS 220d DPF and EGR Trouble
SeriousExhaust & EmissionsShort-trip use can clog the diesel particulate filter and EGR system, causing limp mode, warning lights and stacked repair bills on the already less-desirable 220d.
Est. Repair Cost: £600–£2,000
Reliability GuideCommon Problems with the
Common Problems with the
2012 Lexus IS (XE20)
The final production year for the XE20 generation. By this time, the diesel had been replaced by the slightly better IS 200d, but the petrol V6 remained the paragon of reliability.
What changed for 2012
- •Final year of production before the radically styled XE30 arrived.
- •Range focused heavily on the IS 250 and high-specification 'Advance' trims.
Common MOT watch-outs
- !Suspension bush wear, particularly front lower control arms.
- !Cloudy or deteriorating headlight lenses causing beam pattern failures.
3
Known Issues
2
Serious
0
Moderate
1
Minor
All Known Issues
IS 220d Head Gasket and Cooling Trouble
SeriousCooling SystemThe 2.2 diesel can also develop more serious cooling-system and head-gasket issues, which is one reason UK buyers generally prefer the V6 petrol.
Est. Repair Cost: £1,000–£2,500
Rear Brake Caliper and Disc Corrosion
MinorBrakesAge and low annual mileage can leave the rear calipers sticky and the discs rusty, even on otherwise very dependable petrol cars.
Est. Repair Cost: £200–£450
Buying Tips for 2012 Lexus IS (XE20)
- ✓Check the touchscreen navigation (if fitted) for unresponsive areas, as the digitizer can fail.
- ✓Verify the condition of the alloy wheels, which are prone to severe corrosion and peeling lacquer.