When it comes to reliable vehicles, the names Honda and Toyota often come to mind, almost synonymous with dependability. However, the luxury arm of Toyota, Lexus, has claimed the top spot for reliability, according to the Initial Quality Survey (IQS), for three years running. This accomplishment is even more impressive when you consider the drop in reliability rates across the mainstream car market over the last decade.
Lexus’ commitment to quality since its inception 36 years ago has made it stand out. This article explores what contributes to Lexus’ stellar reliability, examines standout models, and delves into the brand’s culture of quality.
Lexus: A Leader in Auto Reliability
It is Lexus that’s consistently outperformed its competitors. While Lexus stumbled in 2022, ranking sixth, it has rebounded strongly, securing its dominance in 2023, 2024, and 2025.
The Initial Quality Survey reports problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) sold. For three years, Lexus has led the industry with the fewest reported problems. Its current score is a remarkable 140 PP100, significantly below the market average of 202 PP100. Buick comes in second with 143 PP100.
Lexus’ figures for 2023 and 2024 are also impressive:
- 2023 Market Average: 186 PP100
- 2024 Market Average: 195 PP100
- 2023 Lexus vehicles: 133 PP100
- 2024 Lexus vehicles: 149 PP100
Most Dependable Lexus Models
Several Lexus models stand out for their reliability. These models showcase a blend of luxury, fuel efficiency, and exceptional dependability:
Lexus also holds a 4 out of 5 stars reliability rating based on maintenance records and has an average annual maintenance cost of just $551.
How Lexus Achieves Dependability
Lexus’ strong relationship with Toyota is a significant factor, and their reliance on the philosophy of continuous improvement, or Kaizen, makes them a top choice for many consumers.
- Kaizen Philosophy: Lexus consistently improves existing technologies instead of frequently introducing new ones.
- Hybrid Technology: The Lexus Hybrid Drive System has evolved, enhancing fuel economy, reducing emissions, and improving performance. The 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid combines a 2.4-liter inline-four engine with a 83 MPGe combined rating.
- Omotenashi: This principle of high-end hospitality shapes how Lexus designs its vehicles, anticipating drivers’ needs for comfort, technology, fuel economy, and performance. The company creates intuitive, comfortable interiors with precisely sculpted exteriors to enhance aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
- Takumi Masters: The skilled artisans, known as Takumi Masters, are at the heart of Lexus’s quality control. With 70,000 hours of experience in their craft, these masters ensure that every detail in a Lexus is flawless and adds a human touch to every model.
Lexus models deliver innovative features and a high level of craftsmanship. The Lexus LS’s interior is an art piece, featuring hand-pleated door panels and Kiriko glass trim. The LC coupe has a hand-stitched leather steering wheel. The 5-liter V-8 engines in models like the RC F and LC 500 are hand-assembled and finely tuned by a single Takumi master, ensuring performance and refinement.
The Winning Combination of Luxury and Reliability
Lexus stands out as a brand that blends luxury and reliability, making it a popular choice for many. In 2024, Lexus sold 345,669 models.
Lexus models integrate high-tech innovations. The Lexus RX luxury SUV offers features like semi-aniline leather seats, a 14-inch touchscreen, and a Mark Levinson premium audio system. Models like the Lexus ES rank high in terms of driver feedback for comfort, style, performance, and luxury. The Lexus Digital Key, natural voice recognition, over-the-air updates, and high-resolution touchscreens are just a few of the technologies incorporated.
Lexus also emphasizes everyday usability. The 2025 Lexus RX features features like a spacious interior with up to 40.1 inches of rear legroom. Similarly, the Lexus UX 300h combines compact dimensions with efficiency, offering features like wireless smartphone connectivity and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Other features, such as Traffic Jam Assist and soft-close doors, enhance daily driving.
Market-Wide Reliability Concerns
The average problem count in both mainstream and luxury cars has increased. While Lexus is also experiencing higher reported problems, the brand is not seeing these problems at a rate higher than current market trends.
Modern vehicle features, such as electronic aids and hybrid systems, may be contributing to these issues. The IQS reports that smartphone integration is one of the top ten problems. While Bluetooth connectivity and Wi-Fi hotspots are also problematic, most drivers say over-the-air updates have not improved the software they use. Battery systems used in BEVs are also causing problems, with a separate ranking of 223 PP100.
Frank Hanley, Senior Director of Auto Benchmarking at J.D. Power, said, “It is not surprising that the introduction of new technology has challenged manufacturers to maintain vehicle quality. However, the industry can take solace in the fact that some problem areas such as voice recognition and parking cameras are seen as less problematic now than they were a year ago.”
Lexus continues to be the market leader in automotive luxury and dependability, and it seems that the brand will keep its place at the top for the foreseeable future.
