Lexus IS-F Consumers Information | Unique Automotive Hacks

Within the yr 2008, the Lexus IS-F was launched. It was a giant deal for Lexus, as a result of the IS-F ventured into the high-performance sports activities sedan phase dominated by European rivals. 

Because the first-ever F-badged efficiency mannequin from Lexus, the IS-F was designed to problem the likes of BMW’s M Division and Mercedes-AMG. Greater than only a high-powered model of the IS sedan, the IS-F was engineered to be a respectable efficiency machine.

With enter from Toyota’s racing division and intensive testing at circuits like Fuji Speedway and Nürburgring, the IS-F was developed to push Lexus past its luxury-focused identification and into a real efficiency sedan.

On the coronary heart of the IS-F lies a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine (2UR-GSE), a major departure from Lexus’ common emphasis on refinement over uncooked energy. This engine produces 416 hp and 371 lb-ft of torque, delivering an exhilarating efficiency that propels the IS-F from 0 to 60 mph in simply 4.6 seconds. 

Not like lots of its rivals that opted for dual-clutch setups, Lexus geared up the IS-F with an 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automated transmission, one of many fastest-shifting automatics of its time. The transmission’s aggressive downshifts, mixed with a high-revving V8, supplied an exciting driving expertise that was each partaking and sensible for every day use.

Visually, the IS-F stood aside from the usual IS sedan with its wide-body stance, bulging hood, and aggressive aerodynamic parts. A extra pronounced entrance bumper with massive air intakes improved cooling, whereas distinctive flared fenders gave it a muscular look. Some of the distinctive options was the quad-stacked exhaust suggestions, organized diagonally, a design aspect unique to the IS-F. Finishing the aggressive aesthetic have been 19-inch solid BBS wheels.

Inside, the inside featured leather-trimmed sport seats with enhanced bolstering, providing each consolation and help for spirited driving. Paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel allowed for handbook management of the transmission, reinforcing its driver-focused nature.

The instrument cluster featured a singular digital speedometer, and carbon-fiber accents added to the performance-oriented really feel. Customary luxurious options included a Mark Levinson premium audio system, navigation, and Lexus’ superior security expertise.

All through its manufacturing, the Lexus IS-F competed towards a number of the most revered efficiency sedans within the phase. Key rivals included the BMW M3 (E90/E92), recognized for its balanced chassis and high-revving V8, the Mercedes-AMG C63, which supplied uncooked V8 energy and aggressive styling, and the Audi RS4, which introduced all-wheel-drive traction and a high-revving V8 to the desk. Regardless of dealing with stiff competitors, the IS-F carved out a distinct segment for itself, interesting to fanatics who wished a singular different to the established European choices, mixing reliability with track-ready efficiency.

Mannequin Modifications (Breakdown by 12 months)

2008 Lexus IS-F

The 2008 Lexus IS-F debuted as Lexus’ first high-performance sports activities sedan, powered by a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 producing 416 hp and 371 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automated transmission, it launched from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds with a 170 mph high pace.

Visually, the IS-F stood out with wider fenders, a bulging hood, and quad-stacked exhaust suggestions, whereas 19-inch solid BBS wheels strengthened its aggressive stance. Inside, it featured leather-based and Alcantara sport seats, paddle shifters, carbon-fiber trim, and a digital speedometer. Expertise highlights included adaptive cruise management, navigation, and an non-compulsory Mark Levinson audio system.

The beginning value of the 2008 Lexus IS-F was $56,765.

2009 Lexus IS-F

The 2009 Lexus IS-F acquired refined refinements to enhance its driving dynamics and inside usability. Suspension tuning was revised for a smoother journey and sharper dealing with, whereas steering really feel was enhanced for higher driver suggestions. 

Inside, Lexus launched a brand new instrument cluster design for improved visibility and up to date shift logic for extra responsive handbook mode operation. Whereas the outside remained unchanged, new inside trim shade choices, together with Black and Terra Cotta/Black, have been added.

The beginning value of the 2009 Lexus IS-F was $56,610.

2010 Lexus IS-F

The 2010 Lexus IS-F acquired key efficiency and expertise upgrades. ‘

A limited-slip rear differential (LSD) turned commonplace, enhancing traction and cornering stability, whereas additional suspension refinements enhanced journey consolation and dealing with. Inside, Lexus launched an up to date navigation system with a extra intuitive interface and higher graphics, together with Bluetooth streaming audio and improved USB/iPod integration for added comfort. 

On the outside, barely up to date LED daytime operating lights (DRLs) have been launched, and a brand new Mild Grey inside shade possibility was added.

The beginning value of the 2010 Lexus IS-F was $58,460.

2011 Lexus IS-F

The 2011 Lexus IS-F acquired additional refinements. The suspension was revised to offer a smoother journey whereas sustaining sharp dealing with, and electrical energy steering was up to date for higher suggestions and precision. 

Inside, Lexus launched darker two-tone seat choices and new instrument panel lighting, whereas the navigation system was additionally up to date with a quicker processor for improved responsiveness. 

On the outside, Lexus launched a brand new paint possibility, Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0, including a recent and vibrant shade selection for consumers.

The beginning value of the 2011 Lexus IS-F was $60,600.

2012 Lexus IS-F

The 2012 Lexus IS-F acquired a number of refinements geared toward enhancing dealing with, inside consolation, and aesthetics. 

New suspension elements enhanced physique management, whereas a bigger rear stabilizer bar and changes to the differential tuning supplied higher energy supply and cornering stability. Inside, Lexus launched a brand new steering wheel design, upgraded inside trim supplies, and made SiriusXM satellite tv for pc radio commonplace. 

On the outside, the BBS wheels have been up to date to a lighter design, the entrance bumper noticed slight revisions, and a brand new Crimson Leather-based Inside possibility was added for a extra aggressive look.

The beginning value of the 2012 Lexus IS-F was $61,300.

2013 Lexus IS-F

The 2013 Lexus IS-F acquired refined refinements to enhance journey high quality and inside enchantment. Suspension tuning was revised as soon as once more for higher compliance over bumps, whereas the traction and stability management system noticed additional refinements for improved dealing with dynamics. 

Inside, carbon fiber trim turned commonplace on the dashboard, and a brand new pink leather-based seat possibility was launched. Whereas there have been no main styling updates, Lexus added a brand new Pearl White paint possibility.

The beginning value of the 2013 Lexus IS-F was $61,750.

2014 Lexus IS-F

2014 was the ultimate mannequin yr for the Lexus IS-F. Lexus discontinued the IS-F after 2014 and didn’t introduce a direct successor within the third-generation IS lineup.

The beginning value of the 2013 Lexus IS-F was $63,600.

Lexus IS-F Frequent Issues

Whereas the Lexus IS-F is regarded for its robust reliability and sturdy engineering, because of Toyota, nonetheless, no efficiency automotive is totally freed from points. Most issues with the IS-F are age-related or on account of put on and tear, reasonably than severe mechanical failures. A few of the mostly reported points contain coolant leaks, water pump failures, and exhaust manifold cracks, which have a tendency to seem on higher-mileage or older fashions. 

Moreover, suspension elements and transmission cooler traces can put on over time, resulting in potential dealing with and drivetrain issues. 

Beneath is a breakdown of the most typical issues IS-F house owners might encounter.

Valley Plate Coolant Leaks: The gasket beneath the consumption manifold can fail, resulting in coolant leakage. This situation is prevalent in early fashions and will be expensive to restore because of the labor-intensive course of.

Water Pump Failures: Significantly in 2008–2009 fashions, water pumps have been recognized to leak or fail, necessitating alternative to forestall overheating.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks: Some house owners have reported cracks within the exhaust manifolds, which might trigger ticking noises and will require alternative or upgrading to aftermarket headers.

Decrease Management Arm Bushing Put on: The manufacturing facility bushings can deteriorate over time, resulting in uneven tire put on and diminished dealing with efficiency. Upgrading to extra sturdy aftermarket bushings is a typical answer. 

Transmission Fluid Cooler Line Corrosion: Corrosion of the transmission fluid cooler traces may end up in leaks, doubtlessly inflicting transmission injury if not addressed promptly.

Recollects

2008 to 2009 Lexus IS-F automobiles

Airbag Inflator Rupture (Recall No. 16V340000)

Sure IS-F fashions have been recalled on account of faulty passenger frontal airbag inflators that might rupture upon deployment, doubtlessly inflicting severe damage or loss of life.

2008 Lexus IS-F automobiles

Gas Supply Pipe Corrosion (Recall No. 14V647000)

The inner floor of the aluminum gas supply pipes might corrode when uncovered to ethanol fuels with low moisture content material. This might result in gas leakage and an elevated fireplace danger.

2008 to 2010 Lexus IS-F automobiles

Accelerator Pedal Entrapment (Recall No. 10V488000)

Unsecured or incompatible driver’s flooring mats might entice the accelerator pedal, resulting in unintended acceleration and rising the danger of a crash.

Upkeep and Possession Prices

In comparison with different high-performance luxurious sedans, proudly owning a Lexus IS-F is comparatively low upkeep, because of Toyota’s status for reliability and powerful engineering. Not like a few of its German rivals, the IS-F doesn’t undergo from extreme restore prices or frequent mechanical failures.

Nevertheless, common upkeep remains to be important, and prices can fluctuate relying on whether or not you service the automotive at a Lexus dealership or with an unbiased mechanic. Staying on high of oil modifications, brake service, suspension elements, and transmission upkeep will assist hold the IS-F operating at its greatest.

Listed here are the really helpful service schedules and intervals supplied by Lexus:

Each 5,000 Miles / 6 Months:

• Change engine oil and oil filter

• Rotate tires

• Examine brake pads, calipers, and rotors

• Examine and alter all fluid ranges

• Examine wiper blades

• Carry out a street take a look at

Each 15,000 Miles / 18 Months:

• Carry out all 5,000-mile providers

• Examine engine air filter

• Examine nuts and bolts on the chassis

• Examine axle shaft boots

• Examine rack-and-pinion meeting

• Examine steering linkage and boots

• Examine exhaust pipes and mountings

• Examine brake traces and hoses

• Examine ball joints and dirt covers

• Examine engine coolant

• Examine gas traces and connections

• Examine gas tank band and vapor vent system hoses

• Examine gas tank cap gasket

• Change sensible key battery

Each 30,000 Miles / 36 Months:

• Carry out all 15,000-mile providers

• Change engine air filter

• Change cabin air filter

• Change brake fluid

• Examine transmission fluid cooler hoses and connections

• Examine transmission for indicators of leakage

• Measure brake pad thickness and rotor runout

Each 60,000 Miles / 72 Months:

• Carry out all 30,000-mile providers

• Change transmission fluid

• Examine and substitute spark plugs if essential

Here’s a tough estimate of typical service prices related to the Lexus IS-F:

• Oil Change – The IS-F requires high-quality artificial oil. An oil change sometimes prices between $150 and $250 at a dealership, whereas unbiased outlets might cost between $100 and $200, together with oil, filter, and labor.

• Minor Service – Minor providers, together with oil modifications, fluid top-offs, and inspections, are often carried out each 10,000 miles. Dealerships sometimes cost between $300 and $500 for these providers, whereas unbiased outlets might provide them for $200 to $400.

• Main Service – Main providers, encompassing complete inspections, spark plug replacements, brake fluid modifications, and different preventive upkeep, are really helpful each 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Dealerships might cost between $1,000 and $1,500 for these providers, whereas unbiased outlets may provide them for $800 to $1,200.

• Tires – The IS-F makes use of high-performance tires, which might put on extra rapidly because of the automotive’s efficiency capabilities. A set of 4 high-quality tires comparable to Michelin Pilot Sport tires usually prices between $1,200 and $2,000, relying on the model and specs. Set up prices are related at each dealerships and unbiased outlets, although some dealerships might provide complimentary set up with buy.

• Brakes – The IS-F’s high-performance brakes can result in elevated put on throughout spirited driving or observe use. Changing brake pads and rotors can price between $1,000 and $1,800 for all 4 wheels at a dealership. Unbiased outlets might provide related providers for $800 to $1,500, relying on whether or not OEM or aftermarket elements are used.

• Clutch – The Lexus IS-F is supplied with an 8-speed automated transmission and doesn’t have a standard clutch that requires common alternative.

Choices Record

When buying a Lexus IS-F, understanding the accessible choices and packages is vital to discovering the best-equipped mannequin. Whereas the IS-F got here well-appointed as commonplace, Lexus supplied just a few key choices which can be fascinating. 

Some of the notable choices accessible was the Mark Levinson Premium Encompass Sound System, which considerably upgraded the audio expertise with high-quality audio system and superior acoustics. Consumers who take pleasure in premium sound high quality will discover this feature fascinating, particularly because it was solely accessible as a part of the navigation package deal. 

The navigation system, though now outdated and also you wouldn’t use it anymore at the moment, was one other key possibility, as a result of it supplied an improved infotainment interface with a bigger show and enhanced connectivity options, together with Bluetooth streaming and voice instructions.

When it got here to the inside, Lexus supplied a choice of inside trim and shade choices past the usual black leather-based. The Crimson Leather-based Inside was a standout selection, including an aggressive but refined contact to the cabin. Over time, Lexus additionally launched different trim refinements, comparable to carbon fiber accents and new steering wheel designs, enhancing the IS-F’s sporty really feel.

One other essential consideration when deciding on an IS-F is the wheel and tire setup. Whereas all IS-Fs got here with 19-inch solid BBS wheels, some later fashions featured revised, lighter-weight designs that improved dealing with.

Selecting an IS-F with the newest manufacturing facility efficiency updates, such because the limited-slip differential (LSD) added in 2010.

2014 Lexus IS-F choices checklist

Key Choices

• Mark Levinson Premium Encompass Sound System

• Navigation System

• Crimson Leather-based Inside Possibility

• Carbon Fiber Inside Trim

• Restricted-Slip Differential (LSD) (Customary from 2010 onward)

Lexus IS-F Worth and Worth

The Greatest Lexus IS-F to Purchase

With regards to selecting the most effective Lexus IS-F, a number of key components ought to be thought of, together with mannequin yr updates, accessible choices, and total situation of the automobile. Whereas all IS-F fashions share the identical high-revving 5.0L V8 engine and aggressive styling, sure years acquired refinements that make them extra fascinating.

For these in search of the most effective model of the IS-F, the 2012 or 2013 mannequin years are robust decisions. By this level, Lexus had refined the suspension for improved journey high quality, up to date the limited-slip differential (LSD) tuning for higher efficiency, and launched lighter BBS wheels for decreased unsprung weight. 

These later fashions additionally benefited from inside upgrades, together with a redesigned steering wheel, carbon fiber trim, and new seat shade choices like Crimson Leather-based. Moreover, the 2012 mannequin launched a bigger rear stabilizer bar, additional enhancing dealing with dynamics.

With regard to market stability, all mannequin years from 2008 to 2013 are secure to hack, so long as you discover a clear instance with decrease mileage and non-to-very minimal modifications, it’ll all the time stay a fascinating Lexus.  

Past mannequin yr choice, situation and mileage play a vital position in figuring out the most effective IS-F to purchase. Automobiles with full service data, low mileage, and minimal modifications are likely to retain worth higher over time. 

For the reason that IS-F was typically pushed enthusiastically, checking for correct upkeep of key elements comparable to brakes, suspension bushings, and cooling system is crucial.

Conclusion

In abstract, for round $29,000+ the Lexus IS-F stays a robust selection for these searching for a high-performance sports activities sedan with Japanese reliability and a naturally aspirated V8 engine. With its muscular styling, aggressive exhaust word, and sharp dealing with, the IS-F affords a singular different within the efficiency sedan market.

Whereas opponents just like the BMW M3 (E90/E92), Mercedes-AMG C63, and Audi RS4 present robust alternate options, the IS-F stands out with its bulletproof reliability, low upkeep prices, and exclusivity. It delivers a balanced mixture of luxurious and efficiency, making it an excellent possibility for fanatics who need on a regular basis usability with out sacrificing pleasure.

For these in search of a uncommon and reliable efficiency sedan, the Lexus IS-F is a wonderful selection that continues to carry its worth and ship an exhilarating driving expertise.