There are no safety recalls for the 2002 Lexus IS, but owners have filed 12 complaints with NHTSA.
2002 Lexus IS problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Structure | 5 | |
| Tires | 2 | |
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 1 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 | |
| Wheels | 1 | |
| Steering | 1 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | |
| Service Brakes | 1 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body › Door — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 1
- Tires › Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 116,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 Lexus IS complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Suspension · at 116,000 miles · reported Dec 9, 2020
Problem started when car was in for repair of wheel alignment wheels got stolen from dealer collision center lexus not car goes out of alignment while driving on a rough road wearing out tires compliantly about 3 set of tires replaced
Service Brakes · at 203,000 miles · reported Feb 3, 2018
Car runs great until check engine light comes on followed by vsc and then brake light. When those lights come on it runs rough and brakes make gear noise under driver's side hood area. Brake is very sluggish and almost non existent when it fails. Let it set, clear fault and runs fine until warm again. Have had all brakes checked and in good condition by mechanic today and problem persists. Appears to be an ECU or other electrical and not mechanical problem. Is extremely dangerous and should be addressed by manufacturer.
Structure · reported Jan 14, 2015
Over the years my dashboard has deteriorated, the rubber has become sticky and nasty just like all the other lexus vehicles in complaints. I understand there is a recall regarding this matter but not my year. I do not understand why this wouldn't apply to all the 2002 models that are experiencing the exact same issue! Please, could someone enlighten me? Me vehicle has 120,000 miles on it and is in immaculate condition other than the dashboard and sides of console. Help, I love my car and I deserve to be a part of this recall also!! Thank you in advance for your help.
Visibility/Wiper · at 50,999 miles · reported Nov 21, 2014
Something on windshield that makes it hard to see, it impairs my vision. Dashboard is literally melting! It's sticky! Now I don't understand why lexus doesn't take care of their customers and send out a recall. Fix their mistakes and do it right. I understand they tried to pass some cheaper products off on their vehicles but that only bought them some time. Word of mouth is their worst enemy right now.
Structure · reported Aug 18, 2014
As I'm driving the dashboard starts to melt and it's very sticky,paid good money for this car and there's no recall or warrantee for this defect.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 Lexus IS have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2002 Lexus IS as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Lexus IS?
Owners report structure problems most often (5 reports), followed by tires (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 116,000 miles.
Are Lexus recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Lexus dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.