Lexus IS250 Convertible Problems. What Will You Need to Care about?

The Lexus IS250C is the first convertible of the Lexus IS model. As with every other product from the company, the IS250C exudes the usual careful consideration. 

Having been released after the famous SC430, which is also a convertible with a rather controversial style, the IS250C succeeded in enhancing the IS range's appeal as well as serving as a worthy addition to the Lexus line-up. Here's how.

Without omitting the apparent attraction of the car - being convertible, as the roof folds gracefully and tucks into the trunk simply with the press of a button by the side of the car's steering. It is indeed a luxury ride.

However, aside from the luxurious interiors, there's also a 205 hp V6 gasoline unit and two trim levels, which explains that the car is more a tourer than a sports car.

While a few may be disappointed at this convertible not equaling a sports car, driving in the car offers you a refined ride that includes a hushed wind noise and a hugging structure for bent roads. Not to mention its ability to drive through bumps and potholes gracefully.

There's more, but you probably know that at this point, which brings the main topic back to the fore - the problems you may encounter with the IS250C.

Problems You May Encounter with Your Lexus IS250 Convertible

The Lexus IS250C, in all its glory and having an automatic transmission option, has been found to experience some of the significant issues associated with automatic transmission.

Now, that's not to say that automatic transmission isn't the pretty luxurious option it's meant to be; it is globally linked to quality, durability, and reliability. Yet, there are many problems associated with automatic transmissions that can be detected in the Lexus IS250C. Listed below are some of these problems:

• Slipping transmission
• Burning smell
• Shifting delays
• Mechatronic failure
• Jerking and hesitation

A Slipping transmission isn't a part of the Lexus IS250C design. In that case, it could further lead to more severe damage to the entire transmission system, considering that it works due to the coordination of mechatronic systems and sensors. So, how do you detect this? 

• You will catch the sound of a slip in your car's gear or an error code display.
• When your car's engine freely spins for a moment before settling into the gear, you want it in.
• When there's a clunk as you go into drive, reapply the throttle, or approach a stop sign.
• When the transmission moves randomly between specific gears.

And how do you repair it? Your gear's solenoids might be worn out or broken. You would need to replace them. However, there isn't a cause for panic as there's rarely a complete mechanical failure from slipping transmissions.

A burning smell can mean that your car's transmission fluid is overheating. This probably occurs when there is a collapse of metallic components and sludge or clutch debris.

The signal to look out for would be solely the smell. Once there's a burning smell, there's probably something wrong with your transmission.

The way to go with solving the issue of burning smell is to check your transmission oil and level. And like you're expected to do with most mechanical components, if the oil is dirty, you'd need to change it by taking out the dirty oil and refilling. Be sure to also check for remnants of discarded materials.

With shifting delays, your car may take a while to respond, coupled with shifting between speeds or trying to reverse the car. This can also occur as you start your car and go your gear to drive or reverse. Of course, this could make the drive quite unpleasant for any driver, and detecting it is just as simple as it sounds:

A hesitation or slow response as you try to navigate your speed is a good sign for shifting delays. Likewise, once the vehicle takes a while before it moves after you have shifted your gear, it's a sign of shifting delays. 

How can it be solved? It's a transmission issue that involves gears, which means your solution won't be far from checking your gear - its sensors, or you may try resetting the software settings. Another option is checking in with a trusted mechanic if all else fails, as it could also entail a more severe problem. Therefore:

• Flush your transmission fluid every 6,000 miles
• Inspect your transmission fluid pump
• Do not rev your engine

You have read here that some mechatronic components, alongside sensors, can work in coordination to give a working automatic transmission. However, it means that the failure of a mechatronic component invariably leads to a malfunctioning automatic transmission.

One of the signs of mechatronic failure is an error message displayed on the transmission screen. Also, there's a failsafe mode for the Lexus IS250C should the transmission develop a fault due to the failure of mechatronic components. Another signal involves a delay in starting the car and a slower drive.

The solution to a mechatronic failure lies with the cable's connection. First, be sure to connect the cable properly to the sensor. Also, see that the sensor is working.

You know how car jerks can be pretty discomforting during a ride? That is what you would get should your car jerk due to a transmission malfunction.

How do you figure out when your car's hesitating or jerking? A vehicle that operates solely on an automatic transmission should not hesitate during acceleration or when it is loaded.

To resolve the issue of jerking and hesitation with your Lexus IS250C, you should visit a trusted mechanic or an expert. The jerking could occur due to worn-out dampers or mechanical components, and experts in that field can only change them.

Other Problems Experienced with the Lexus IS250C

Here's what we can come up with from customer reviews and opinions:

• While the Lexus IS250 Convertible is made with EPA fuel economy, there's the possibility of engine damage due to fuel type. For instance, a fuel with more than 5% ethane will damage the engine as the car runs solely on E5/G5 fuel types. So be sure to verify the length of time the vehicle can run on an alternative fuel option.
• For the 2.5 gasoline engine, there might be a buildup of carbon which may lead to engine damage or misfires.
• Rattling sounds from the car's engine on startup; the VVT-system commonly causes this. To minimize it, quality synthetic oil should be used to flush the engine. However, short rambles aren't often a cause for concern.
• You may experience a leaking water pump, which is a common problem with all the IS models. So, ensure to check regularly correctly.
• There may be rust in the chassis under the car or the wheel arches. Early treatment can quickly fix it.
• When you add a heavy load, the rear suspension might squeak.
• There may be a seize in the rear brake calipers. However, an individual seized caliper could be freed under a factory and extended warranty.
• The interior panels and dashboard may become sticky and melt with sunlight and heat.
• With time, you may experience inevitable sensor failures. E.g., the thermometer and even the headlight might show random Fs.
• Parking becomes a challenge when the roof is present because it somewhat provides poor visibility.

In all, an aspect that is of paramount importance is making sure that your diagnosis is correct. You do not want to risk getting it wrong or going further to fix something that does not need fixing. So, to detect these problems accurately, you may need to use a tool. A software-based diagnostic tool that you can connect to your car's electronic system is an excellent way to begin.

Nonetheless, the problems can be averted by simply checking the transmission oil of your car; this is the easiest way to see that your vehicle is taken care of. 

If bad comes to worse, seeking professional help is your best way out. While this will cost more, it also guarantees the problem will be fixed and won't be compounded to something worse that could adversely affect the whole performance of the car.

Simply make your way to Lexus' official website to cater to severe issues. They offer exceptional customer services and experiences, building trust in customers like you. And take advantage of the complimentary first and second scheduled maintenance services they offer (which come with the purchase of a new Lexus).

Conclusion

If you are looking to show off or even get the feel of the cool breeze as you move, the Lexus IS250 Convertible is undoubtedly for you. Still, there's a need to know what to look out for should there be emergencies.

For this reason, this article summarizes most of the issues or problems that have been associated with the convertible. And no, it isn't just about the problems, but also the signs to help you detect them, as well as solutions.