Noobie Thinking About Buying An Is 220D

[M1ck]

Hello,

I'm a disgruntled Audi owner think of buying a Lexus from an independent local-ish dealer.

I've found an IS 220d SE, 2 owners (pre registered by Lexus and one private owner) FLSH just under 17k miles 59 plate registered Sept 09, and, if bought, will come with a 3yr warranty!

Its a really nice looking car sounds ok when started (as far as I can tell) and seems really clean inside and out, I have no idea what a fair price for one would be but it seems a fair bit cheaper than a main dealer, cant help wondering if theres a reason its not in a main dealer.

I have absolutely no idea what to expect! I'm about to arrange a test drive but would be grateful for any pointers.

I have noticed on this forum an issue with cylinder heads, is that across ALL Lexus IS diesels? or is it a specific age/model? what are they like for reliability? I've also read (on here again I think) about rough idling and notchy gears, again is that a problem with specific specifications? whats the real world economy like? and what are they like in winter weather?

So guys any help would be appreciated before I decide whether to take the plunge or not!

Cheers

Mick

[ChrisIS200SportTTE]

Hi.

Yes the head gasket problems are with all the 220d as is the EGR valve problems and notchy gears etc... Honestly it's not exactly the best diesel ever made and there's a reason why Lexus no longer offer a diesel in their range, their not very good at making them! The IS220d was Lexus first attempt at a diesel and im pretty sure it will be their last. Go for the IS250 Auto SE or SEL petrol. Yes the fuel consumption isn't as good but it's just a much better car. Lexus petrol engines if properly maintained will go on forever! :)

Saying that my brother in law owns a 57 plate 220d and he loves it. I've driven it a few times and it is a nice car to drive. Problem is he says he's just waiting for the day the head gasket blows and lives in constant fear. Hes also had a few recall issues with it such as the rattling dashboard and vibrating rear view mirror which lexus fixed for free under warranty.

[M1ck]

Hi.

Yes the head gasket problems are with all the 220d as is the EGR valve problems and notchy gears etc... Honestly it's not exactly the best diesel ever made and there's a reason why Lexus no longer offer a diesel in their range, their not very good at making them! The IS220d was Lexus first attempt at a diesel and im pretty sure it will be their last. Go for the IS250 Auto SE or SEL petrol. Yes the fuel consumption isn't as good but it's just a much better car. Lexus petrol engines if properly maintained will go on forever! :)

Saying that my brother in law owns a 57 plate 220d and he loves it. I've driven it a few times and it is a nice car to drive. Problem is he says he's just waiting for the day the head gasket blows and lives in constant fear. Hes also had a few recall issues with it such as the rattling dashboard and vibrating rear view mirror which lexus fixed for free under warranty.

Thanks for taking the time to reply, I had kind of guessed there were issues with the diesels from reading other posts on this site but didnt realise it was so bad, as the car has only 17k I was hopeful it wouldn't be a worry for quite a while. Took it for a test drive earlier today and really like it but don't know if I want the worry of a known problem that is more likely to present me with a big repair bill than not. Maybe a chat with Lexus themselves might help if there is a mileage point where it's likely to be a worry.

Cheers

Mick