There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Lexus IS, but owners have filed 12 complaints with NHTSA.
2003 Lexus IS problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Air Bags | 4 | |
| Structure | 4 | |
| Engine | 3 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | |
| Steering | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
Most reported parts
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 48,000 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 2003 Lexus IS complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Engine · reported Jul 23, 2024
Brand new owner - first owner; Car accelerated numerous times during ownership that caused harm to both my young son and I life. This IS250 Lexus was dangerous, unreliable, caused mental and emotional issues. Lexus was negligent in handling numerous issues and concerns related and has done nothing to compensate me for to date relating to multi-billion dollar law suits.
Engine · reported Jul 23, 2024
Brand new owner - first owner at time of lease/finance terms and conditions. Car accelerated numerous times during ownership that caused harm to both my young son and I life, placed us in harms way and accident occurred in California due to faulty emissions, acceleration out of control, and braking problems. This Lexus was dangerous, unreliable, caused mental and emotional issue coupled with anxiety. Lexus was negligent in handling numerous issues and concerns reported to dealership and has done nothing to compensate me for their multibillion dollar settlement to date. I need compensation of…
Structure · reported Dec 31, 2020
The dashboard and center console is melting, leaving a sticky & shiny surface making it hazardous to drive the vehicle. A warranty campaign was issued for several other lexus models to address this very issue, however, the 2003 is300 was excluded. Lexus could not provide a reason as to why this exact defect was not addressed for the 2003 is300 model, since they addressed the very same issue with an older 2003 gx470 model. My vehicle has been garage kept and extremely well maintained, so sun exposure was minimal and still experiencing the same issue as thousands of others that have complained.…
Air Bags · at 130,000 miles · reported Feb 12, 2016
The contact owned a 2003 lexus is. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, another vehicle crash into the contacts vehicle head on and the air bags failed to deploy. As a result, the contact sustained head, neck and left shoulder injuries that required medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000.
Unknown or Other · reported Sep 16, 2015
Dash is melting and is sticking to anything that is rub up against it. I saw a recall on all other model regarding this issue. Except this particular model 2003 lexus is300. I believe it should extend to this year and model as well. No dash should be melting away with heat! Owner should not be responsible for poorly built parts! For how much I paid for the car, the manufacturer should replace the problem are no cost!
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Lexus IS have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS?
Owners report air bags problems most often (4 reports), followed by structure (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 48,000 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.