IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2007–2012 Lexus LS (Mk4)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2007–2012 Lexus LS (Mk4). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2007–2012 period has 2 more issues than the Lexus LS (Mk4) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Air Suspension Failure

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The air suspension struts can leak over time, causing the car to sag and putting extra strain on the compressor.

Estimated cost: £1,000–£1,500 per strutAffects: 2006–2012Often appears around: 100,000+ miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Car sitting lower on one side
  • •Hissing noise from the wheel arches
  • •Compressor running constantly

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Measure the height of each wheel arch after the car has sat overnight
  • ✓Check if the car rises promptly when started

Brake Actuator Failure

SeriousBrakes

Similar to the GS and RX of this era, the LS 460 and 600h can suffer from brake actuator failure.

Estimated cost: £2,000–£3,000Affects: 2007–2012Often appears around: 80,000+ miles

Typical symptoms

  • •ABS and brake warning lights
  • •Long pedal travel
  • •Barking noise from the brakes

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test the brakes under various loads
  • ✓Check service history for brake fluid flushes (critical for actuator life)

Control Arm Bushing Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The LS is a heavy car, and its front control arm bushings are a known weak point, leading to vague steering and clunking noises.

Estimated cost: £400–£800Affects: 2006–2017Often appears around: 60,000+ miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Clunking noise over bumps
  • •Steering wheel vibration
  • •Uneven tyre wear

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for knocks during the test drive
  • ✓Inspect the tyres for feathering

Buying Tips for the 2007 Lexus LS (Mk4)

  • ✓If the car has air suspension, check that it rises and falls evenly; a single failed strut can cost over £1,000.
  • ✓On the LS 600h, check for a "Hybrid Health Check" certificate; these batteries are large and expensive to replace.
  • ✓Listen for clunking from the front suspension, which often points to worn control arm bushings.
2006 Lexus LS (Mk4)2013–2017 Lexus LS (Mk4)

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Other Lexus LS (Mk4) Year Periods

20062007–20122013–2017

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