2021 Lexus IS: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
Heavily updated third-gen IS with a retuned chassis and fresh styling; zero recalls and essentially no complaints on file. Outstanding reliability, strong crash protection and low ownership costs make it a top used luxury-sport-sedan pick. 1 known issue pattern is documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2021 Lexus IS ranged from $39,050 to $42,950 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
Heavily updated third-gen IS with a retuned chassis and fresh styling; zero recalls and essentially no complaints on file. Outstanding reliability, strong crash protection and low ownership costs make it a top used luxury-sport-sedan pick.
Sources (3)
- rerev.comhttps://rerev.com/articles/lexus-is-250-years-to-avoid/
- rerev.comhttps://rerev.com/articles/lexus-is-350-years-to-avoid/
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/lexus/is250
Known issues
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Exceptionally few complaints across these years; the proven 2.0L turbo, 3.5L V6 and V8 powertrains are very reliable. Isolated reports of engine misfire/loss of power and a minor electric-steering notch at highway speed.
isolated · 4 NHTSA complaints · engine
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (3)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=lexus&model=is&mode…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=lexus&model=IS%2035…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=lexus&model=IS%2050…
Recalls & safety
Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.
Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics and sharp F Sport handling
- Naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 (and V8 IS 500) avoid downsized-turbo complexity
- Premium, solidly built, quiet interior with strong crash-test scores
- Outstanding reliability, among the most dependable luxury sport sedans
- Excellent resale value and low repair costs for the class
Cons
- Premium fuel recommended
- Turbo IS 200t/300 four-cylinder is merely adequate; firm F Sport ride
- Tight rear seat and small trunk versus rivals
- Aging infotainment with a fiddly Remote Touch trackpad on pre-2021 cars
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300 | $39,050 | $40,535 | — | — |
| 350 F Sport | $42,950 | $47,950 | — | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
2021-2023 cars held unusually high used values due to pandemic-era supply shortages, so comparisons to original MSRP read differently for these years.
Sources (3)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2021-lexus-is_300-price
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/lexus-is-300-price
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2021-lexus-is_350-price
Depreciation
Move your cursor along the line to see the estimated value for any year.
This listing sits above the typical depreciation curve. Common for heavily-optioned cars and for 2021-2023 model years (pandemic-era pricing); the curve is anchored at base MSRP, which excludes options.
Curve anchored at the entry-trim base MSRP ($39,050). Higher trims started higher (up to $42,950), and options added more.
Curve outlook: a typical 2021 loses roughly another 26% of its value over the next 3 years. These are estimates from public data, not a market-price claim.
2021-2023 cars held unusually high used values due to pandemic-era supply shortages, so comparisons to original MSRP read differently for these years.
Sources (1)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/lexus-is-300/resale-value
Cost to own
| Repairs (rises with mileage) | ≈ $450–500/yr |
| Expected lifespan | ~275k miles |
Requires premium fuel
National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.
Sources (2)
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/lexus/is250
- fueleconomy.govhttps://www.fueleconomy.gov/ws/rest/vehicle/35343
Frequently asked questions
What problems does the 2021 Lexus IS have?
Documented issue patterns include: Exceptionally few complaints across these years; the proven 2.0L turbo, 3.5L V6 and V8 powertrains are very reliable. Isolated reports of engine misfire/loss of power and a minor electric-steering notch at highway speed. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2021 Lexus IS reliable?
Heavily updated third-gen IS with a retuned chassis and fresh styling; zero recalls and essentially no complaints on file. Outstanding reliability, strong crash protection and low ownership costs make it a top used luxury-sport-sedan pick.
How much did the 2021 Lexus IS cost new?
Between $39,050 and $42,950 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid. 2021-2023 cars held unusually high used values due to pandemic-era supply shortages, so comparisons to original MSRP read differently for these years.
Is the Lexus IS expensive to maintain?
Estimated repairs run roughly $450–500/year as mileage climbs. Note: it requires premium fuel.
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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.