Common Problems with the
2019–2021 Lexus IS (XE30)

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2019–2021 Lexus IS (XE30). None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

Known Issues

Serious

Moderate

Minor

The 2019–2021 period has an average number of reported issues compared to other Lexus IS (XE30) year periods.

All Known Issues

Rear Brake Disc Corrosion

MinorBrakes

Regenerative braking means the rear friction brakes do relatively little work on the IS 300h, so discs can corrode badly and fail MOT inspections despite otherwise easy lives.

Most affected: IS 300h

Estimated cost: £200–£400Affects: 2013–2021

Typical symptoms

•Grinding from the rear brakes
•Pitted or rusty rear discs
•MOT advisory for disc condition

What to inspect before you buy

✓Inspect both rear discs through the wheels
✓Check the inner disc faces as well as the outer surfaces
✓Look for recent rear-brake replacement on low-mileage cars

Weak 12V Battery Causing Hybrid Warnings

MinorElectrics & Electronics

A tired auxiliary battery can trigger misleading warning messages, slow startup and odd behaviour even though the main hybrid system is healthy.

Most affected: IS 300h

Estimated cost: £150–£250Affects: 2013–2021

Typical symptoms

•Hybrid or check-system warnings
•Clock or trip settings resetting
•Slow or hesitant startup sequence

What to inspect before you buy

✓Check the battery age and replacement history
✓Start the car from cold and watch for warning messages
✓Be cautious if the car has clearly sat unused for long periods

Buying Tips for the 2019 Lexus IS (XE30)

✓Do not obsess over the hybrid battery first; service history, rear brake condition and general care are more important on most IS 300h cars.
✓Test the Remote Touch controller, Bluetooth and reversing camera properly because interface faults are frustrating and not cheap to sort.
✓On cars that do lots of short local trips, inspect the rear discs for pitting because regenerative braking leaves the friction brakes underused.

2013–2018 Lexus IS (XE30)