Faults:

I bought the car in January of 2012. Ever since then it's been all hell.

I first tested it, and it was amazing, drove like beast, very smooth, and very quiet. Bought it for $3500.

Now 5000 km later, the check engine light comes on with 4 codes. Fixed the O2 sensors for $500, and knock sensors for $700.

Drove for a good 2000 km, then another check engine light came on, so I fixed the MAF sensor for $210. Mind you, I took all these repairs to Lexus, biggest rip off of my life.

So then 3000 km later, another stupid check engine light came on. Took it to Lexus; it turned out I needed a timing belt, so I just said screw it, turned around and sold it for $1350.

So altogether, I spent 1410 in labour and part costs, and 500 getting it diagnosed at Lexus. I lost $4000 on this piece of junk in 4 months.

Toyota/Lexus, never again, and please don't make the same mistake I did; go buy yourself a Honda or Acura.

General Comments:

Absolutely nothing.

Faults:

The car has no apparent issues. The check engine light was on when I had a pre-purchase inspection done. The seller had the shift solenoid replaced before I took ownership, and all appears to be well.

It was recommended that the timing belt should have been changed at about 90,000 miles, which has not been done. Talked to another owner that had his go out at about 115,000, and another that is at 169,000 without it.

I drive this car about about 50 miles a week. What do you think should I do. What will a Toyota dealer charge compared to the Lexus dealer?

General Comments:

The car handles great, happy with the purchase.

Faults:

Front passenger strut mount began making a metal-on-metal clanking sound around 94K. Found that to be a common issue with these models. Parts and labor for both front mounts: Lexus dealer > $600, Toyota > $400, Local mechanic $300.

Replaced tires @ 95000. Word to the wise, stick with the speed rating (I think it's V-rated) tires that are recommended by the manufacturer. They have a stiffer sidewall than the ones with a lower rating. I purchased a nice set of Goodyears (H-rated) on sale from TireRack.com. They look and ride nice, but if you put the Lexus recommended pressure in the tire, then they look under-inflated. Well if you put more air in the tire, then it rides hard like a go-cart.

General Comments:

Awesome ride... smooth, quiet, and it has a classy style. I love how smooth yet quickly it accelerates. It's not as crisp in the corners as the Euro imports, but it makes up for that in pick-up and comfort.

They aren't very common, you don't see one everywhere you turn like the Camry or the Accord but they are still very reliable. Love the frameless doors.

The only gripe I have about it is that the seating can be a tad bit uncomfortable for a left-handed driver. Other than that, it's near perfect.

I have the local Toyota dealer do most of my major work (timing belt, transmission flush, tune up) because they use the same parts and procedures as Lexus does, plus I save a TON of money. I take care of it and it returns the favor.

I intend to drive it for at least another 100,000+ miles.