LEXUS LS · model year

2008 LEXUS LS

56 NHTSA complaints, and 1 active recall for this specific cohort.

NHTSA overall rating

Not crash-tested

New Car Assessment Program

The 2008LEXUSLS carries 56 consumer safety complaints in NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation database for this specific model-year cohort. Within that volume, owners reported 0 crashes, 2 fires, 0 injuries, and 0 fatalities. No NCAP 5-star crash-test rating is available for this model year in the federal database.

Component-level analysis is where model-year complaints become actionable: the top complaint category for the 2008 LS is service brakes with 17 filings, followed by unknown or other (11) and structure:body (5). Concentration in one or two component groups is the classic signature of a systemic defect; a flat distribution usually reflects normal aging, warranty complaints, or isolated build-plant variability. This model year has 1 active recall campaign, which means the manufacturer is obligated to remedy the covered defect at no charge for the life of the vehicle — the full NHTSA campaign numbers are listed below.

NHTSA currently has 3 investigation files overlapping the 2008 LS. Owners comparing this cohort against neighboring years should pair the counters above with the complaint-by-year trend on the parent model page — a spike in a single year often tracks to a platform refresh, a new transmission supplier, or an updated ECU calibration. Use the related-complaint feed below to read raw owner narratives before deciding whether any pattern here affects your specific use case.

56
Complaints
0
Crashes
2
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths

Total Complaints

56 filings

Crashes Reported

0 reports

Source

NHTSA ODI

Federal complaints database

Complaints vs. fleet median (215)

At or below the fleet median complaint volume.

Complaints by Component

ComponentCount
SERVICE BRAKES17
UNKNOWN OR OTHER11
STRUCTURE:BODY5
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL4
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM3
ENGINE3
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC2
VISIBILITY1
VISIBILITY/WIPER1
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM1
POWER TRAIN1
SUSPENSION1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:ELECTRIC:SOLENOID/ACTUATOR1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT1

Recalls (1)

09V02000016/01/2009

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TOYOTA IS RECALLING 214,570 MY 2006-2008 LEXUS IS, MY 2006-2007 GS AND MY 2007-2008 LS PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ALUMINUM FUEL DELIVERY PIPES (FUEL RAILS). ETHANOL FUELS WITH A LOW MOISTURE CONTENT WILL CORRODE THE INTERNAL SURFACE OF THE FUEL RAILS. AS THIS CONDITION PROGRESSES, THE ENGINE

Recent Complaints

20260114UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Purchased a used 2008 Lexus LS460 and within about two hours the vehicle abruptly and completely shut down while driving in traffic, with no warning and no practical ability to predict the failure or safely pull off the road. Near collisions were narrowly avoided only because other drivers swerved or slammed on brakes. At the time of purchase there were no warning lights illuminated, but immediately after the shutdown multiple warning lights illuminated (including brake/ABS/stability-related warnings as documented by an independent service center). The vehicle was inspected the next day by an independent service center, which documented multiple diagnostic trouble codes across major systems and stated that repairs would be in the thousands and not recommended. The inspection also noted indications consistent with diagnostic codes having been cleared prior to purchase, and the battery at inspection could not hold a charge aiding the clearing of codes. The vehicle had no functional exhau

20250411SERVICE BRAKES

I am speaking on behalf of my [XXX] mother who owns the car. Summarily, we took the car to two Lexus Service Repair shops (i.e. one in Glendale and one in Longo, El Monte). On [XXX], we the brake and tire sensor lights came on. We first took it to Lexus of Glendale. The diagnosis and estimate was to cover these items: tire sensors, brake sensor, brake pads, air filters, oil change, and nav system to fix the defrost buttons, the DVD software for the nav system, and anything that would cause the brake/ABS emergency light and tire pressure lights to come on. Prior to that, we replaced all 4 tires, upper and lower suspension arms, air filters, fuses, alignment, etc. Both lights (tire sensors and brake lights in the dashboard came on the last week of January 2025. The total cost was $4200.00. Then the same day my mom rolled over a speed bump, and the tire sensor lights came on. She went back and they did not replace the tire sensor lights and we opened up a case on this issue. Then a day l

20241219SERVICE BRAKES

I was on the exit for union turnpike on the gcp at a good 40 miles per hour when boom a whole bunch of lights popped up on the dash saying see dealer and 3 lights come on the top right. By the grace of god the car infront of me was very far and i was able to drop the car into manual mode drop gears while turning wheels slowly go into bumps and i slowed down when i came around the corner to a full stop that’s when i had my tow guy grab the car and drop me and the car home

20241219ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I was on the exit for union turnpike on the gcp at a good 40 miles per hour when boom a whole bunch of lights popped up on the dash saying see dealer and 3 lights come on the top right. By the grace of god the car infront of me was very far and i was able to drop the car into manual mode drop gears while turning wheels slowly go into bumps and i slowed down when i came around the corner to a full stop that’s when i had my tow guy grab the car and drop me and the car home

20241128SERVICE BRAKES

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding the negligence and lack of accountability demonstrated by Lexus Manufacturer in addressing a serious and persistent brake issue in my vehicle, which directly threatens my safety and that of others on the road. Despite repeated attempts to resolve this matter, Lexus has failed to provide a lasting solution or accept responsibility for this critical defect. I have taken my vehicle to multiple authorized dealers, all of whom confirmed the issue and recommended contacting the manufacturer. Following this advice, I reached out to Lexus Manufacturer directly, only to be met with evasive responses, deflection, and an utter lack of action. Issue Description The brakes on my vehicle have consistently failed to function as expected, even after repairs performed by Lexus-certified dealers. This suggests either a fundamental defect in the braking system or inadequate repair protocols by the manufacturer’s representatives. Such a failure in a

20241128ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding the negligence and lack of accountability demonstrated by Lexus Manufacturer in addressing a serious and persistent brake issue in my vehicle, which directly threatens my safety and that of others on the road. Despite repeated attempts to resolve this matter, Lexus has failed to provide a lasting solution or accept responsibility for this critical defect. I have taken my vehicle to multiple authorized dealers, all of whom confirmed the issue and recommended contacting the manufacturer. Following this advice, I reached out to Lexus Manufacturer directly, only to be met with evasive responses, deflection, and an utter lack of action. Issue Description The brakes on my vehicle have consistently failed to function as expected, even after repairs performed by Lexus-certified dealers. This suggests either a fundamental defect in the braking system or inadequate repair protocols by the manufacturer’s representatives. Such a failure in a

20240620SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle and depressing the brake pedal, there was a knocking and ticking sound coming from the brakes. Additionally, the brake light, traction control light, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The ABS, Brakes, and VSC messages were displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the brake actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under Extended Warranty Coverage for the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 126,000.

Mileage: 126,000

20240620ENGINE

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle and depressing the brake pedal, there was a knocking and ticking sound coming from the brakes. Additionally, the brake light, traction control light, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The ABS, Brakes, and VSC messages were displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the brake actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under Extended Warranty Coverage for the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 126,000.

Mileage: 126,000

20240620ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle and depressing the brake pedal, there was a knocking and ticking sound coming from the brakes. Additionally, the brake light, traction control light, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The ABS, Brakes, and VSC messages were displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the brake actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under Extended Warranty Coverage for the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 126,000.

Mileage: 126,000

20240502SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the braking system malfunctioned, and the brake pedal extended to the floorboard while depressed, causing the braking distance to be extended. The vehicle was towed to the local mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the ABS actuator and brake pump were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 58,000.

Mileage: 58,000

20240409UNKNOWN OR OTHER

the interior is malting and give a bad smell ( strong preform ), which effect breathing

20240321SERVICE BRAKES

These Vehicles have a ongoing problem with the brake actuator. Lexus I'm sure Is aware of the problem I believe they should take care of it. It's a really expensive fix that we as customers shouldn't have to be responsible for. This issue makes driving the vehicle very uncomfortable.

20240214SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:ELECTRIC:SOLENOID/ACTUATOR

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while driving out of the driveway, the brakes became inoperable. There was a loud audible sound detected. The message to replace actuator was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the brake actuator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who replaced the actuator. The manufacturer was contacted, and opened a case, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.

Mileage: 57,000

20231212SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the brake warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the brake actuator. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Warranty Enhancement Program: POL 16-01. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 211,000.

Mileage: 211,000

20221026UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Dash board sticky and cracking. Dash feels like glue is on it and getting worst.

20220318SERVICE BRAKES

The contact owns a 2008 Lexus LS460. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but failed to stop the vehicle. The contact drove the vehicle off the roadway onto a grassy shoulder to slow the vehicle to prevent a crash. The contact then called the dealer and was advised to enter a code in the vehicle and drive slowly to the dealer. After arriving at the dealer and having the vehicle diagnosed, the contact was informed that the brake actuator and assembly needed to be replaced; however, the repair would be an out of pocket expense. The manufacturer was contacted and provided her with a loaner vehicle however, it was stated that she still had to pay for the vehicle to be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 90,000.

Mileage: 90,000

20220116ENGINE

Hello, For over 2 years now, I have had to get oil added to my vehicle multiple times (estimated 2-3 times after my regular interval oil change of 5,000 miles. I get the warning message from the engine stating low oil. I have taken my vehicle to a Lexus dealership, Lexus of Huntsville, AL to try and see what the problem is as this keeps happening and is an ongoing problem. I was informed no oil leak, but there is an internal problem in my opinion. I believe this is a safety defect as my engine could have major problems and possibly cause a fire, or harm to anyone in the vehicle. Also, I have spent additional money (estimated over $500.00 to get oil added in the amount of 2-3 quarts multiple times per every 5,000 mile oil change. I have recently called Lexus corporate (est 10 Jan 2022) and I getting no where as they asked me to go to the Lexus dealer and have it checked, but I have already done this a few times already with no success in fixing the problem. I believe th

20220103SERVICE BRAKES

Parking Break was stuck on and would not release. Owner removed spare tire and loosened parking break system, but light was still flashing. Dealer check for code and reset. The same thing happened again and the Dealer has started they’ve installed a new relay and if happens again it will be very expensive to fix. I feel this should be listed as a recall. This issue should be repaired by as the car is low mileage and has always been kept in a garage. Please review. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

20210915POWER TRAIN

Car doesn’t run probably. Seat are getting ripped

20210915UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Car doesn’t run probably. Seat are getting ripped

Compare 2008LEXUSLS to Similar Vehicles

NHTSA Investigations

Frequently Asked Questions

How many complaints does the 2008 LEXUS LS have?
The 2008 LEXUS LS has 56 NHTSA complaints, 0 crashes, 2 fires, 0 injuries, and 0 deaths reported.
Are there any recalls for the 2008 LEXUS LS?
Yes, the 2008 LEXUS LS has 1 recall(s). The most common affected component is ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Recalls are issued by NHTSA and manufacturers must provide a free remedy.
What are the most common problems with the 2008 LEXUS LS?
The most-complained component for the 2008 LEXUS LS is SERVICE BRAKES with 17 complaints. Other frequently reported areas include UNKNOWN OR OTHER and STRUCTURE:BODY.
Is the 2008 LEXUS LS safe to buy?
Review the complaint history, crash and fire reports, safety ratings, and recall status on this page to make an informed decision. No NHTSA crash test rating is available for this model year. Compare with other model years using the links above.
Where does this data come from?
All complaint, recall, and safety rating data is sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Complaints are filed by vehicle owners through NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation.

Vehicle Safety Guides

Data as of 2025. Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) complaints database, NHTSA recall campaign API, NHTSA NCAP crash-test ratings, and NHTSA FARS for fatality cross-reference.