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2016 Lexus IS Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary ownership concern is the fuel/propulsion system, with reports of engine stalling while driving.
  • No recalls have been issued for the 2016 model year, but three TSBs indicate potential areas of attention.
  • The vehicle achieves a respectable 21 MPG combined, but premium fuel is required.
  • NHTSA safety ratings are not available for this model year.
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OverviewPros, Cons & TakeawaysWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Lexus IS

The 2016 Lexus IS is a refined used car choice, known for its good reliability. However, a significant concern involves the fuel/propulsion system, with reports of engine stalling while driving. While there are no recalls, three TSBs suggest potential areas for attention. This model features All-Wheel Drive and an S6 automatic transmission, delivering capable performance. It requires premium fuel and achieves an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined.

Critical Failure Risk

A single critical complaint indicates potential fuel pump issues leading to unexpected engine stalling. This poses a significant safety risk due to loss of vehicle control.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$900 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

1
Fuel/Propulsion System1
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
26
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Verdict: Conditional Buy

Is the 2016 IS worth it?

The 2016 Lexus IS offers good reliability, but a single critical complaint regarding engine stalling warrants a thorough inspection of the fuel system.

Buy it if...

  • this lexus is is best suited for a used car buyer who prioritizes a refined interior and a generally dependable powertrain, but is willing to conduct a meticulous pre-purchase inspection, particularly focusing on the fuel system.

Skip it if...

  • buyers seeking a completely worry-free ownership experience or those unwilling to invest in a detailed inspection of the fuel system should look elsewhere. it's also not ideal for those who prefer to avoid premium fuel.

View maintenance guide
Unlock the full report to see 1 more strengths and 1 more watch-outs.
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

This Lexus IS is best suited for a used car buyer who prioritizes a refined interior and a generally dependable powertrain, but is willing to conduct a meticulous pre-purchase inspection, particularly focusing on the fuel system.

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a completely worry-free ownership experience or those unwilling to invest in a detailed inspection of the fuel system should look elsewhere. It's also not ideal for those who prefer to avoid premium fuel.

2016 Lexus IS Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Lexus IS.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Most Common Issues

1. Fuel System

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full pros & cons (3 strengths, 3 watch-outs)
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Lexus IS reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Lexus IS is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 1.

How practical is the 2016 Lexus IS for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Lexus IS?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Lexus IS is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Lexus IS?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1000. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump (estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $900).

What engine is in the 2016 Lexus IS?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2016 Lexus IS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Lexus IS, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2016 IS require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Lexus IS?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Lexus IS?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Lexus IS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Lexus IS, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Lexus IS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Lexus IS, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

Is the 2016 Lexus IS good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2016 Lexus IS is a luxury sedan that prioritizes comfort and refinement over outright performance.

What are the most common fuel/propulsion system problems on the 2016 Lexus IS?▾

Top complaint category: fuel/propulsion system (1 reports, 100% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Lexus IS?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 BMW 3 Series and 2016 Audi A4.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Pros, Cons & Takeaways
  3. 03Who This Car Is For
  4. 04Reliability & Problems
  5. 05Vehicle Specs
  6. 06Unlock Full Report
  7. 07FAQ

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