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Lexus Ls 500: Years To Avoid
Buying a luxury car like the Lexus LS 500 is a big decision. Many people choose the LS 500 for its comfort, advanced technology, and famous Lexus reliability. But, not every model year is equally good. Some years have more problems than others.
Knowing which years to avoid can help you save money, time, and stress.
If you want to enjoy the best of the LS 500, it’s smart to learn from other owners’ experiences. In this guide, you’ll discover which LS 500 years are best to skip, the main reasons why, and how to find a car you’ll love for years.
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Why Are Some Lexus Ls 500 Years Worse Than Others?
Even the most reliable cars can have trouble in certain model years. This is true for the Lexus LS 500 as well. Some years have more complaints or recalls than others. Why does this happen?
1. Major Redesigns Bring New Problems
When a car gets a big update, manufacturers add new technology, engines, or design changes. These updates are exciting, but they can also bring unexpected problems. For example, the LS 500 received a full redesign for the 2018 model year.
This meant a new engine, new transmission, and a new infotainment system.
With major changes, it’s common for the first few years to have more bugs. As Lexus improves the design in later years, many issues get fixed. So, early years after a redesign are often riskier.
2. New Technology Can Have Glitches
Luxury cars are full of advanced features. The LS 500 has a touchpad controller, adaptive cruise control, and many driver aids. Sometimes, these features don’t work as expected in the first year or two. Software problems, screen freezing, or faulty sensors can lead to expensive repairs.
Lexus usually improves these issues in newer years, but the first few model years can be frustrating for owners.
3. Parts And Supplier Changes
Automakers sometimes change suppliers or parts to save money. While Lexus tries to keep quality high, new parts may not always work as well as older ones. Over time, Lexus often returns to better suppliers or upgrades the parts, making later years more reliable.
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Ls 500 Model Years To Avoid
Not every Lexus LS 500 is a headache, but some years are known for more problems. Based on owner reports, expert opinions, and recall data, here are the main years to be careful about:
2018 Lexus Ls 500
The 2018 model year is the first year of the LS 500’s latest generation. It brought a new twin-turbo V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a new infotainment system. While these upgrades sound great, the 2018 model faced several issues:
- Transmission Hesitation: Many owners complain about slow or rough shifting, especially at low speeds. The 10-speed transmission sometimes “hunts” for the right gear or shifts unexpectedly.
- Infotainment Glitches: The touchpad controller is difficult to use and can be distracting. Owners report the system freezing or not connecting properly to smartphones.
- Build Quality Issues: Some 2018 LS 500s had rattles, wind noise, or misaligned panels—problems not expected from a Lexus.
- Suspension Complaints: There are complaints about a stiff or noisy ride, especially with the optional air suspension.
Real Owner Example
A 2018 LS 500 owner wrote on a popular car forum: “I love the way the car drives on the highway, but the transmission is rough in the city. The infotainment system froze multiple times, and the dealer had to replace some modules. Not what I expected from a Lexus.”
Recalls And Tsbs
The 2018 LS 500 had several recalls, including for the fuel pump (which could cause the engine to stall) and for the parking brake (which might not hold the car properly). Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) were also issued for transmission software updates and infotainment repairs.
2019 Lexus Ls 500
The 2019 LS 500 saw some improvements, but many of the 2018 problems continued. Lexus worked to fix some bugs, but owners still reported:
- Transmission Problems: Shifting was improved, but hesitation and jerky changes were still present for some drivers.
- Infotainment Issues: The touchpad was still hard to use, and software glitches remained.
- Fuel Pump Recall: The same fuel pump recall affected many 2019 models.
Why Not 2020 And Newer?
Starting from 2020, Lexus fixed many of the main complaints. Software updates made the infotainment system smoother. Transmission programming was improved. Recalls for the fuel pump and parking brake were mostly resolved. Ride quality and build quality also returned to Lexus’ high standards.
Owners of 2020, 2021, and newer LS 500s report fewer problems. Reviews mention a more comfortable ride and better reliability.
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Common Problems In “years To Avoid”
If you buy a 2018 or 2019 LS 500, you may face these issues:
A. Transmission Hesitation And Rough Shifting
The 10-speed automatic is designed for smooth power and good gas mileage. But, in early years, many drivers noticed:
- Delayed acceleration, especially from a stop
- Jerky or clunky gear changes
- “Hunting” for the right gear during city driving
This can make the car feel less luxurious and more tiring to drive. Lexus released software updates, but not all cars improved.
What Causes It?
A new transmission design often needs “real-world” driving experience to perfect the programming. Early models sometimes don’t have the best software.
B. Infotainment System Problems
Lexus replaced the old touchscreen with a touchpad. This was meant to be modern, but many owners found it confusing and distracting. Problems included:
- Freezing or restarting screens
- Poor Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay connections
- Slow response time
Dealerships could sometimes update the system, but not all problems were fixed.
C. Fuel Pump And Engine Stalling
A major recall affected the 2018 and 2019 LS 500. A faulty fuel pump could cause the engine to stall while driving. This is a safety issue, as it can happen without warning. Lexus fixed this for free under recall, but not all cars were repaired quickly.
D. Build Quality Surprises
Some owners found loose panels, rattles, or water leaks. This is rare for Lexus, but first-year cars often have more quality control problems.
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Should You Avoid All Early Ls 500s?
Not every 2018 or 2019 LS 500 will have trouble. Many owners enjoy their cars with no major issues. However, buying from these years does carry more risk. If you want the most reliable LS 500, start with 2020 or newer.
If you find an older LS 500 at a great price, check that all recalls were fixed. Ask for service records and have the car inspected by a Lexus specialist.
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How To Spot A Problem Ls 500
Want to check if a used LS 500 is a good buy? Here are smart steps:
- Check the VIN: Use the car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to look up recalls and service history. Lexus dealers and the [NHTSA website](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) can help.
- Test the Transmission: During a test drive, pay close attention to how the transmission shifts. Try city driving, slow starts, and highway speeds.
- Try the Infotainment System: Test all features, including navigation, Bluetooth, and smartphone connections. Make sure everything works smoothly.
- Listen for Noises: Drive over rough roads and listen for rattles or squeaks inside the cabin.
- Check for Recalls: Ask the seller if all recalls were fixed. Get proof from service records.
- Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Pay a Lexus-trained mechanic to check the car before you buy.
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Which Ls 500 Years Are Best?
If you want to avoid headaches, look for these model years:
- 2020 Lexus LS 500: Most early problems are fixed. Owners report smoother driving and better reliability.
- 2021 Lexus LS 500 and newer: The latest models have improved ride comfort, an easier-to-use infotainment system, and fewer complaints.
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What If You Already Own A 2018 Or 2019 Ls 500?
If you already own an earlier LS 500, don’t panic. Many owners have no major problems. Here’s what you can do:
- Stay Up to Date on Recalls: Check for new recalls and get repairs done quickly.
- Ask About Software Updates: Lexus dealers may have new software for the transmission or infotainment system.
- Keep Records: Keep all service and repair records. This helps if you need warranty work or want to sell the car.
- Drive Gently: Some transmission problems are worse with aggressive driving. Gentle driving can reduce stress on the car.
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Credit: rerev.com
Non-obvious Insights Most Buyers Miss
Many first-time LS 500 buyers miss these important details:
A. The Importance Of Software Updates
Unlike older cars, many LS 500 issues can be fixed with software updates. These are often free at the dealer, but not all used car sellers keep the car updated. Ask about software history, not just mechanical repairs.
B. Warranty Transfer Rules
If you buy a used LS 500 from a private party, check if any warranty remains and if it can be transferred to you. Lexus warranties are sometimes only valid for the first owner or certified pre-owned buyers.
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Practical Tips For A Smart Purchase
To buy an LS 500 and avoid regrets:
- Aim for 2020 or Newer: These years have the fewest complaints.
- Research the VIN: Make sure all recalls are done.
- Test Everything: Don’t rush your test drive—check all features.
- Ask for Service Records: A well-maintained car is less likely to have problems.
- Get a Lexus Specialist’s Help: Before you buy, have a Lexus expert check the car.
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Credit: carbuzz.com
Lexus Ls 500 Reliability Compared To Rivals
You may wonder if the LS 500 is worse than other luxury sedans. Actually, even in its “bad” years, the LS 500 is often more reliable than German rivals like the BMW 7 Series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class. However, the 2018 and 2019 LS 500 have more issues than older Lexus models or newer LS 500s.
For buyers who want a “no drama” luxury sedan, the 2020 or newer LS 500 is a safe bet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Lexus Ls 500 Expensive To Fix?
Repairs can be costly, especially for electronics or suspension problems. But, Lexus parts are often less expensive than German luxury cars. Regular maintenance helps avoid big bills.
How Long Does The Ls 500 Last?
With proper care, many LS 500s reach 200,000 miles or more. Avoiding early years with known issues improves your chances.
Is The Air Suspension Reliable?
The optional air suspension gives a smooth ride, but it’s more complex than standard springs. Early LS 500s had some air suspension problems. Later years are more reliable.
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Credit: carbuzz.com
Final Thoughts
The Lexus LS 500 is a top choice for luxury, comfort, and technology. But, not every year is created equal. The 2018 and 2019 LS 500s had more complaints about transmission, infotainment, and recalls. If you want the best experience, look for a 2020 or newer model.
If you find a great deal on an earlier LS 500, do your homework. Check for recalls, get a Lexus specialist’s opinion, and test everything carefully. A smart buyer can still enjoy an older LS 500, but it’s important to know what you’re getting.
By understanding which LS 500 years to avoid—and why—you can find a car that delivers the true Lexus experience: quiet, comfortable, and reliable driving for years to come.
