When it comes to reliability and long-term durability, Lexus ranks among the world’s best luxury car brands. Owners appreciate this automaker’s reputation for building quality vehicles that are affordable to maintain. While most Lexus models are quite bulletproof, this doesn’t mean repairs will not need to be made at some point. Here are five overlooked problems to keep an eye out for.
Oil Leaks
After your Lexus has racked up a lot of miles, oil leaks are more likely to occur. The various engine gaskets gradually begin to wear out over time. Drivers may notice that the oil level needs to be topped off more often than usual. You could also encounter a cracked oil line, which can cause oil to leak out at an even faster rate.
As soon as you notice the signs of an oil leak, the best approach is to have the vehicle inspected by an experienced automotive technician. After the necessary repairs are made, you can then drive for thousands of miles without any worries.
Overheating
Overheating is one of the most serious car problems. While an engine can overheat at any time of the year, it is especially prone to doing so during the summer. When the engine cooling system isn’t up to par, hot weather causes underhood temperatures to rise quickly. This is why Lexus mechanics stress the importance of getting your cooling system inspected every year.
You definitely need to have the radiator hoses checked. On average, most radiator hoses will need to be replaced every five years. Signs of excessive wear include softening of the rubber, cracking, and swelling.
Brake Actuator Failure
When serviced regularly, Lexus braking systems are quite durable. However, the braking actuator is prone to failing after surpassing the 100,000-mile mark. If this part goes bad, expect to hear a clicking or knocking sound when braking.
A faulty braking actuator needs to be replaced as soon as possible. You will eventually begin to experience delayed stopping, which is a major safety hazard. Remember, don’t purchase a braking actuator from a cheap aftermarket supplier. To preserve the vehicle’s dependability, always invest in genuine OEM parts.
Bad Sensors
Like any other car part, sensors can wear out. If you own an older Lexus model, don’t be surprised if one of its oxygen sensors goes bad. Rough idling, sluggish acceleration, and increased fuel consumption are a few of the biggest symptoms of a faulty oxygen sensor. Mass airflow sensors can also become dirty over time.
Even if the vehicle seems to be running perfectly fine, the check engine light might pop on. With the use of high-tech diagnostic equipment, repair shops can pinpoint the root of the problem.
Corrosion Protection
Before buying a used Lexus, be sure to get a pre-purchase vehicle inspection. Some models don’t have the best rust protection from the factory. This could be a concern for drivers who often travel on salted roads during the winter.
An experienced mechanic knows how to spot the signs of heavy corrosion. The last thing you want is for rust to get beneath the car's surface. It can literally eat away at the various metal components, thus hurting the vehicle's structural integrity.
