2004 Lexus IS

Recalls

1 recall names the 2004 Lexus IS. Newest first.

• Exterior lighting

  Apr 7, 2009NHTSA 09E01200016,270 vehiclesEquipment

  Sabersport IS recalling 16,270 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. these headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain…

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.

  Remedy

  Sabersport will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. the safety recall began on may 11, 2009. owners may contact sabersport at 1-909-598-7589.

  Full recall details →

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Unknown or other5
2. Air bags3
3. Structure3
4. Wheels1

Latest complaints

• Oct 12, 2015OK120,000 mi
  Air bags · Unknown or other

  Melting dash board to include passenger side airbag cover, leaves residue on your hand when you touch it regardless of where the vehicle IS parked in cool or hot areas.

• Aug 5, 2015FL40,000 mi1 injury
  Unknown or other
  Dashboard has been melting since I bought the car brand new in 2005. It had 300 miles on it. It has had a stuck vent since 8 bought it on to of the dash and the repaint that now looks like crap. Back to the original issue of the melting dashboard. I have been burnt by the melting whatever it IS…

  Dashboard has been melting since I bought the car brand new in 2005. It had 300 miles on it. It has had a stuck vent since 8 bought it on to of the dash and the repaint that now looks like crap. Back to the original issue of the melting dashboard. I have been burnt by the melting whatever it IS make of. It has stuck to my hand and left a blister. would like to know why others models were recalled and not the 2004 is300???? Odviously there are a lot out there that are having this same issue. If you are researching to buy a lexus save your money!

• Jul 2, 2015CA48,000 mi
  Unknown or other

  I have a 2004 lexus is300 and have the same dash melting issue that other people IS having. Starting from 2007 the dash started to melt and took to deal back then and they refuse to do anything. Recently got a letter for warranty enhancement notice for my other 2007 lexus es350 with same issue of melting dash. I think lexus should also do a replacement for all 2004 is300 for dash problem.

• May 13, 2015IL70,000 mi
  Air bags · Unknown or other
  2004 lexus is300 purchased from the original owner in 2008. as evidenced by many claims on different lexus/toyota vehicles the dashboard and center console IS "melting." 2006 and up lexus IS models have an existing recall. 2002-2005 lexus IS models do not have this recall although the issue IS…

  2004 lexus is300 purchased from the original owner in 2008. as evidenced by many claims on different lexus/toyota vehicles the dashboard and center console IS "melting." 2006 and up lexus IS models have an existing recall. 2002-2005 lexus IS models do not have this recall although the issue IS exactly the same. being a father of a 5-year old daughter who rides in this vehicle my safety concerns are threefold... 1. fumes and/or vapors being released into the air and being inhaled by myself and/or daughter. 2. airbag panel IS affected and worries me that deployment might be affected. 3. glare on the inside of my windshield from melting plastic.

• May 13, 2015CA
  Unknown or other

  The dashboard IS melting. when touched it leaves prints and feels sticky. it's been on going for a few years and has gotten worse. I'm concerned it may be toxic.

• Jan 4, 2015TX79,675 mi
  Structure

  The dashboard on my 2004 lexus is300 IS melting; feels sticky to the tough, fingerprints can occur, scratches very easily, as time goes by it becomes less and less attractive, have to be extremely careful with it, and while cleaning it. I contacted lexus and there IS no remediation on their part. *tr

• Jan 4, 2015TX101,350 miCrash1 injury
  Air bags
  My 2004 is300 was involved in an accident at approximately 30 mph and no air bags deployed. The other vehicle (saturn) hit my car on the front driver side, damaging the suspension, fender, bumper, and surrounding parts. after impact my car went up the curb, over some large rocks and rested on an…

  My 2004 is300 was involved in an accident at approximately 30 mph and no air bags deployed. The other vehicle (saturn) hit my car on the front driver side, damaging the suspension, fender, bumper, and surrounding parts. after impact my car went up the curb, over some large rocks and rested on an incline. I suffered neck, shoulder, and back pain and was treated by a chiropractor. no air bags deployed at any time. my car was repaired and I am currently driving it. *tr

• Nov 5, 2014FL61,247 mi
  Structure

  My dashboard IS melting. the plastic IS sticky and leaves a black film on anything that touches it including fingers and clothing. the black residue IS very difficult to get off once it IS on something. just washing hands multiple times with soap and water IS not enough to remove it. *tr

• Aug 21, 2014FL
  Structure

  Dashboard has been deteriorating for several years. contacted dealer and lexus headquarters and was told they did not have to do anything as car was no longer under warranty. I expect better from a so-called luxury vehicle. my daughter's 1998 acura's dashboard IS still pristine. not only does the melting material leave black marks on anything it touches, but I am concerned about toxicity. *tr

• May 16, 2012PA103,000 mi
  Wheels

  There IS a dangerous pothole eastbound on lie near fresh meadows exit. due to heavy traffic, the pothole was unavoidable as we were less than 20 feet between the car ahead of us. the pothole was on the middle lane. it resulted in a flat, a tow, and a brand new tire replacement.

Service bulletins

Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.

• 11003650To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.
• 11003648The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. While Lexus paint quality, durability, and resistance to environmental factors is continuously being improved, it remains the responsibility of the dealer to protect and maintain the vehicles paint finish from the time of arrival at the dealership until retail delivery to the customer. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain, frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. BO029-91. The entire bulletin has been updated. Service Bulletin No. BO029-91 is obsolete
• 11003643Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. While the quality and durability of paint on Lexus vehicles is continuously being improved, it remains the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.
• 11003642Lexus vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to remove the RapgardTM protective film within 90 days from initial application. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. L-PG004-94. The entire bulletin has been updated.
• 11003641Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surface. These particles are often difficult to see on dark color paints but can be easily felt when brushing a hand across horizontal body surfaces such as the hood, roof, or deck lid. Follow the Repair Procedure in this bulletin to clean vehicles that may have been subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles such as rail dust during rail transportation or extended storage near industrial areas.
• 11003595To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.
• 11003593The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. While Lexus paint quality, durability, and resistance to environmental factors is continuously being improved, it remains the responsibility of the dealer to protect and maintain the vehicles paint finish from the time of arrival at the dealership until retail delivery to the customer. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain, frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. BO029-91. The entire bulletin has been updated. Service Bulletin No. BO029-91 is obsolete
• 11003588Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. While the quality and durability of paint on Lexus vehicles is continuously being improved, it remains the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.
• 11003587Lexus vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to remove the RapgardTM protective film within 90 days from initial application. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. L-PG004-94. The entire bulletin has been updated.
• 11003586Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surface. These particles are often difficult to see on dark color paints but can be easily felt when brushing a hand across horizontal body surfaces such as the hood, roof, or deck lid. Follow the Repair Procedure in this bulletin to clean vehicles that may have been subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles such as rail dust during rail transportation or extended storage near industrial areas.
• 10214355Lexus Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements 4.13.2022
• 10207945POL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Lexus. This information must be kept near the point of vehicle sale and be available to any customer that requests it. Customers can find this information on the Owner?s section of Lexus.com. Dealers can locate a copy of this guide on the Claims Processing & Resource Center in Dealer Daily as well.
• 10205383Spots in Window Glass - vehicle exterior
• 10205352Windshield Wiper Blade Maintenance and cleaning
• 10205346Auto matic Transmission Replacement kPrecautions
• 10205331Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset
• 10205329Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset.
• 10205327Techstream ECU Flash Reprogramming Procedure.
• 10179697TSB: Vehicles may display evidence of a fluid leak or fluid seep from powertrain components. This bulletin explains how to determine the differences between a fluid leak versus a fluid seep. Cases that are determined to be a ?leak? should be repaired accordingly and will be covered under warranty if applicable. Cases that are determined to be a ?seep? should be documented on the repair order and inspected at the next service interval. Follow the Repair Information in this bulletin to determine if the concern in question is a fluid leak or fluid seep and review the Repair Procedure section to address this condition.
• 10179601TSB: Vehicles may display evidence of a fluid leak or fluid seep from powertrain components. This bulletin explains how to determine the differences between a fluid leak versus a fluid seep. Cases that are determined to be a ?leak? should be repaired accordingly and will be covered under warranty if applicable. Cases that are determined to be a ?seep? should be documented on the repair order and inspected at the next service interval. Follow the Repair Information in this bulletin to determine if the concern in question is a fluid leak or fluid seep and review the Repair Procedure section to address this condition.
• 10177780TSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. ST004-01, SU001-08, and L-SB-0174-08. The aforementioned bulletins are obsolete, and any printed versions should be discarded. Be sure to review the entire content of this service bulletin before proceeding. This Service Bulletin provides best practice procedures for vehicle pulling complaint, diagnosis, and repair for 2002 ? 2021 model year Lexus vehicles. This information supplements Repair Manual procedures when the symptoms are: ?Vehicle Pulling: The vehicle moves to the right or left when the driver holds the steering wheel while driving straight ahead without exerting steering effort. ?Steering Wheel Off Center: The vehicle travels straight, but the steering wheel is not pointed straight ahead. The vehicle is not pulling. Before repairing a vehicle pulling to one side, it is necessary to clearly identify the cause of the pulling condition. Frequently, pulling to one side is diagnosed as a wheel alignment concern. However, the actual cause may be related to the lateral force generated by the tires, vehicle damage, road crown or worn components. Performing a wheel alignment when tire force is the cause could result in the wheel alignment being set at a value outside of specifications. This could then cause other problems such as uneven tire wear, etc. A customer may notice a pull to the left when in the left lanes of travel and notice a pull to the right or no pull when traveling in the right lanes of travel on the very same section of roadway. This road crown effect is environmental and cannot be corrected with suspension adjustments or any other wheel or tire modification discussed in this bulletin.
• 10176283Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
• 10174889TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE April 06, 2020: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see L-SB-0008-20. Replacement Certification Labels and VIN Plates
• 10174888TSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. L-SB-0048-08, PG007-07, PG016-01, PG015-01, PG004-97, PG003-97, PG003-93, PG002-90, L-SB-0048-08, PG007-07, PG016-01, PG015-01, PG004-97, PG003-97, PG003 93, and PG002-90. The aforementioned bulletins are obsolete, and any printed versions should be discarded. Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1990 ? 2020 model year vehicles may be available provided the requests meet the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin.
• 10164328TSB: REVISION NOTICE July 01, 2019 Rev1: G1668 Applicability has been updated to include 2019 ? 2020 model year Lexus vehicles. G2158 The Techstream Preparation and Process Overview sections have been updated. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. L-SB-0021-14. G1765 Applicability has been updated to include applicable 2018 models and 2016 ? 2018 model year RC 300 and 2015 ? 2018 model year RC 350 vehicles. ? Applicability has been updated to exclude 2001 ? 2003 model year ES 300 vehicles. Service Bulletin No. L-SB-0021-14 is obsolete and any printed versions should be discarded. Be sure to review the entire content of this bulletin before proceeding. Flash reprogramming allows the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines the use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information. NOTE ECU is a Lexus term used to describe integrated computerized devices responsible for managing the operation of a system or subsystem. For the purposes of this bulletin, the term ECU is used as a generic label for the following SAE J1930 standard references: ? Powertrain Control Module (PCM) ? Engine Control Module (ECM) ? Transmission Control Module (TCM) ? Any other Lexus-specific control unit
• 10133657TSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes SB Nos. L-SB-0048-08, PG007-07, PG016-01, PG015-01, PG004-97, PG003-97, PG003-93, and PG002-90. Service Bulletin Nos. L-SB-0048-08, PG007-07, PG016-01, PG015-01, PG004-97, PG003-97, PG003-93, and PG002-90 are obsolete and any printed versions should be discarded. Be sure to review the entire content of this bulletin before proceeding. Vehicle replacement certification labels (vinyl label installed on driver door or door post) and VIN lates (metal plate riveted to dashboard) may be available from Lexus, provided the request meets one of the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin.
• 10133651TSB: REVISION NOTICE November 22, 2017 Rev1: ? Applicability has been updated to include 2014 ? 2018 model year vehicles. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded. In the event that a Lexus vehicle becomes submerged in water, many components may be physically damaged. Electrical and electronic components, including wiring harnesses, are particularly susceptible to corrosion and subsequent malfunction. Although any flooding can be damaging, salt water flooding elevates the potential for abnormal conditions and may increase risks due to its highly corrosive and conductive nature. Salt residue also continues to corrode and remain conductive even after a vehicle dries. This bulletin is intended to assist with safe handling and inspection of flood damaged vehicles and to provide basic guidance on likely needed repairs.
• 10132625TSB: Revision Notice: Applicability section has been updated to include 2016-2017 applicable model year Lexus vehicles. The Repair Procedure section, Required Tools & Equipment section, and the Repair Procedure section has been updated. Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information.
• 10132074Beginning in 1998, Lexus introduced side airbags as optional equipment. Lexus does NOT recommend replacement of original seat covers with non-Lexus leather or other seat cover materials on vehicles due to the following: Seat covers NOT recommended by Lexus may affect side airbag performance, in general or in part, during an accident. Modifications that negatively affect side airbag performance can result in severe occupant injuries. Seat covers are an integral part of this safety system. Replacing fabric seat covers with non-Lexus leather or other seat cover materials may compromise the effectiveness of this safety system. The design of the seat is complex, integrating safety and strength with comfort and luxury. Lexus strongly discourages modifying original equipment seats that have optional side airbags. Additionally, Lexus strongly advises against the installation or use of aftermarket seat covers, which could impair the performance of the side airbags in the event of an accident.
• 10045639Lexus: precaution information on removal, inspection, installation of accelerator pedal sensor assembly, which requires no lubrication. Models 2001-13 ct200h, es300, 300H, 330, 350, gs300, 350, 450, 450H, 460, gx460, 470, hs250h, IS f, is250, 250C, 350, 350C, lfa, ls430, 460, 600H, lx470, 570, rx330, 350, 400H, 450H, sc430.

Every Lexus IS model year

Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.