Lexus, just like its parent company Toyota, has a solid reputation in the automotive industry for its reliability. That said, you have to understand that no car is perfect because humans, can make mistakes. So, even though Lexus prides itself on making some of the world's most reliable cars, buyers can still end up with a shoddy Lexus. This is why, as someone looking to get good value for your money, going for a used Lexus is often better than getting a brand-new one.

UPDATE: 2023/10/19 04:46 EST BY RON FP

Lexus is one of the most decorated car brands in terms of quality, reliability, and resale value. Here are some of the best used Lexus SUVs and cars that helped the Japanese luxury marque gain accolades over recent years.

We used cross-referenced vehicle reviews, reliability, expert opinions, and consumer feedback from the manufacturer's websites, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, RepairPal, CarEdge, and Consumer Reports (CR) to give you the best Lexus models to buy used.

A well-maintained used Lexus car will take the guesswork out when making buying decisions, as you will have good knowledge of its reliability before you let go of your hard-earned cash. Since used car buyers are huge on reliability, we took that and other relevant factors like performance, design, and safety into consideration when compiling this list.

18 2020 Lexus GX

Current Used Car Price Range: $42,550 - $49,075

The GX is a 3-row Lexus SUV powered by a 4.6-liter V8 power plant (301 hp, 329 lb-ft) and underpinned by a body-on-frame platform based on the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. For 2020, the Lexus GX received Crawl Control, a new grille and headlight design, a Multi-Terrain selector, and a standardized Lexus Safety System Plus across all trims. The Lexus GX is a great family SUV, but it also has very respectable off-road capabilities.

2020 Lexus GX Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,652 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 0
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 87/100
• CR Reliability Verdict: 5/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Rating: 4.4/5
• RepairPal Reliability Score: 3.5/5
• Worst Lexus GX Year To Buy Used: 2010 Lexus GX (5 recalls, 37 NHTSA complaints, problems with airbags and electronic stability control)

17 2018 Lexus GX

Current Used Car Price Range: $30,998 - $36,013

The 2018 Lexus GX is the 9th model year of the 3-row luxury SUV's 2nd generation. With its decent power output and respectable off-road capability juxtaposed with its well-appointed interior, the Lexus GX is a relatively affordable compromise between the Land Rover Discovery and the Mercedes-Benz GLS. For 2018, the base Lexus GX trim came with available heated and ventilated front seats, while the optional Sport Design package adds 2nd-row captain's chairs.

Among the 2nd-generation GX model years, the 2018 Lexus GX received the highest (91/100) reliability score from J.D. Power.

2018 Lexus GX Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $770 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,652 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 2
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 91/100
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.4/5
• Edmunds Rating: 7.4/10
• RepairPal Reliability Score: 3.5/5
• Worst Lexus GX Year To Buy Used: 2019 Lexus GX (77/100 J.D. Power quality and reliability score, the lowest in 15 years)

16 2022 Lexus ES 350

Current Used Car Price Range: $37,350 - $45,050

The 2022 Lexus ES 350 comes with no powertrain changes compared to its previous model year, hence it retains the dependable 3.5-liter VVT V6 engine that produces 302 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine comes paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission transferring power to the front wheels. Aside from being a "budget LS" or an "upscale Camry" in terms of interior comfort and luxurious ride quality, the Lexus ES 350 is very popular because of its dependability.

2022 Lexus ES 350 Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,488 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 0
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 87/100
• CR Reliability Rating: 4/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.1/5
• Edmunds Rating: 8/10
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2007 Lexus ES (5 recalls, 651 NHTSA complaints, problems with airbags, vehicle speed control, and unintended vehicle acceleration)

15 2015 Lexus GS

Current Used Car Price Range: $17,975 - $22,500

Although the Lexus GS has been discontinued since the end of 2020, it still plies American roads and will be remembered as the sportier luxury midsize sedan alternative to the Lexus ES. The 2015 Lexus GS 450h F-Sport is a particularly impressive trim, as it combines hybrid sensibility with the F-Sport package's performance and aesthetics. Using a 3.5-liter Atkinson cycle V6 and a permanent magnet electric motor, the GS 450h can achieve a 338-hp maximum system output and a 5.6-second time on the 0-60 mph sprint. However, this same hybrid system also returns an excellent 31-MPG fuel economy rating, similar to that of a fuel-sipping compact car.

2015 Lexus GS Reliability

The 2015 Lexus GS earned an 89/100 quality and reliability score from J.D. Power and a perfect 5/5 consumer review score from CR. Currently, the 2015 Lexus GS lists for roughly $19,500 to $23,000 on the used car market.

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $592 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,721 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 1
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 87/100
• CR Reliability Rating: 5/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.7/5
• Edmunds Rating: 4.6/5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4.5/5
• Worst GS Year To Buy Used: 2008 Lexus GS (8 recalls, 176 NHTSA complaints, problems with airbags, engine, engine cooling system, fuel system leaks, seatbelts, brakes, and accelerator pedal)

14 2022 Lexus LS

Current Used Car Price Range: $66,325 - $72,700

Despite Lexus' strong reputation of reliability and quality among luxury cars, the LS doesn't have the best of records when it comes to dependability. However, the fifth LS generation came with a robust build quality that prevents consistent and unplanned breakdowns. And, in agreement with its luxury designation, the new LS provides a quiet, pleasant ride, a potent twin-turbo V6 engine, as well as a roomy, upscale interior with plenty of tech and safety features. Under the hood, the LS has a standard twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 that generates 416 horsepower, with that output handled by a 10-speed automatic transmission. A 354-hp hybrid powertrain comprising a 3.5-liter V6 and two electric motors is available.

The LS also features a wide array of features, including heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 12.3-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Amazon Alexa, navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, as well as a 12-speaker sound system.

2022 Lexus LS Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Total Recalls: 1
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.5/5
• Edmunds Rating: 7.7/10
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 3.5/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2007 Lexus LS (3 recalls, 129 NHTSA complaints, problems with fuel leaks, engine valve springs, and fuel delivery pipe corrosion)

13 2022 Lexus LC 500

Current Used Car Price Range: $87,950 - $95,100

The Lexus LC 500 is a grand touring luxury car that offers coupe and convertible layouts. Using a 5.0-liter V8 that delivers 471 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque, this powerful yet elegant Lexus flagship touring car can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 4.5 seconds. Introduced for the 2018 model year, the Lexus LC 500 competes against the Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe, BMW 8 Series, and Jaguar F-Type.

For 2021 and 2022, the Lexus LC lineup (including the hybrid LC 500h) received a great 86/100 quality and reliability score from J.D. Power as well as an excellent 4.9/5 consumer review rating from KBB.

2022 Lexus LC Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Total Recalls: 0
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 86/100
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.9/5
• Edmunds Rating: 7.7/10
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2018 Lexus LC (3 Recalls, 5 NHTSA complaints, problems with the fuel pump)

12 2019 Lexus UX

Current Used Car Price Range: $23,275 - $28,000

The Lexus UX debuted in 2019 as the luxury brand's smallest crossover. Powered either by a standard 2.0-liter gas engine (169 hp, 151 lb-ft) or by an 181-hp hybrid powertrain using the same gasoline mill, the sub-compact UX SUV is also the most affordable Lexus model.

Right off the bat, the 2019 Lexus UX won KBB's Best Resale Value Award for the sub-compact luxury crossover SUV category. J.D. Power also gave this sub-compact Lexus crossover a "great" resale value score of 82/100, along with a quality and reliability score of 88/100.

2019 Lexus UX Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Total Recalls: 2
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 88/100
• CR Reliability Rating: 4/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.2/5
• Edmunds Rating: 7.1/10
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4/5

11 2021 Lexus RC

Current Used Car Price Range: $38,255 - $68,453

The Lexus RC is a 2-door luxury sports coupe that offers 3 gasoline power plant options: a 2.0-liter turbo I4 with 240 hp, a 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6 that pumps out 311 hp, and a roaring 5.0-liter V8 that cranks out 472 hp. The 2021 Lexus RC competes against the Audi A5, the BMW 4 Series, the Infiniti Q60, and the Jaguar F-Type.

For 2021 and 2022, the Lexus RC line received a great quality and reliability score of 88/100. Furthermore, KBB consumer reviews also resulted in an excellent 4.9/5 overall score.

2021 Lexus RC Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Total Recalls: 1
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 88/100
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.6/5
• Edmunds Rating: 4.7/5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2015 Lexus RC (1 recall, 10 NHTSA complaints, problems with the fuel pump, electrical system, exterior lighting, and seats)

10 2010 Lexus SC

Current Used Car Price Range: $18,426 - $20,998

The Lexus SC is a luxury convertible with a sleek exterior design and superb interior finish. Sure, it gets bad press for its appearance and unimpressive performance, but besides that, the 2009-2010 Lexus SC is worth its weight in gold, with a reliability score of 4.5 out of 5 according to U.S. News. It's no wonder Edmunds describes the Lexus SC as an "oldie but goodie."

The Lexus SC 430 gets its energy from a 4.3-liter V8 engine, which can produce up to 288 horsepower and a torque of 317 lb-ft. The Volvo C70 and BMW 335i are the strongest competitors of the Lexus SC.

2010 Lexus SC Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Total Recalls: 2
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.9/5
• Edmunds Rating: 4.9/5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2002 Lexus SC (4 recalls, 51 NHTSA complaints, problems with airbags, ball joints, tire alignment, and tire wear)

9 2015 Lexus CT

Current Used Car Price Range: $16,154 - $18,377

Lexus outdid itself with the release of the CT model from 2011 to 2017. The Lexus CT is a uniquely styled five-door hatchback that makes use of gas-electric drivetrain technology by Toyota. The rationale behind the CT's eco-friendly construction was to attract Millennials, but it did more than that, by bagging the award for the most reliable car to buy used in the United Kingdom, with over 99.5% reliability rating by owners.

With its pedigree, it's obvious that the premium hybrid hatchback is a good car. The CT's electric motor works with a 1.8-liter gasoline engine to provide power, which goes to the front wheels through the CVT automatic gearbox. The reliability and performance of the Lexus CT put it as a formidable rival to the Audi A3.

2015 Lexus CT Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $386 (RepairPal)
• Total Recalls: 0
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 88/100
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.8/5
• Edmunds Rating: 4.4/5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4.5/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2012 Lexus CT (1 recall, 42 NHTSA complaints, problems with the engine, sunroof, and airbags)

8 2022 Lexus IS

Current Used Car Price Range: $44,075 - $68,675

The IS represents Lexus in the compact luxury sedan segment. For 2022, the Lexus IS gained a powerful 5.0-liter V8 option (472 hp, 395 lb-ft), which is even more powerful than the mill of its pure "F Marque" performance progenitor, the IS F. The 2022 Lexus IS sedan's entry-level 2.0-liter turbo I4 engine (241 hp, 258 lb-ft) and mid-range 3.5-liter V6 (260-311 hp, 236-277 lb-ft) are also quite decent for its size class.

2022 Lexus IS Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,680 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 0
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 92/100
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.3/5
• Edmunds Rating: 7.7/10
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4/5
• Worst Lexus IS Year To Buy Used: 2006 Lexus IS (16 recalls, 470 NHTSA complaints, problems with airbags, fuel system leaks, brakes, engine valves, accelerator pedal, and wipers)

7 2014 Lexus IS F

Current Used Car Price Range: $31,758 - $35,399

Produced for the 2008 to 2014 model years, the Lexus IS F was the first F Marque model to come out of Toyota's luxury group. A few years older than the legendary Lexus LFA, the Lexus IS-F was also a beast of a sedan that boasted a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 powerplant that cranked out 422 hp and 371 lb-ft of twist. Using the same design language as the standard Lexus IS compact sedan, the IS F was Lexus' first high-performance 4-door sedan that went head-to-head against German performance models like the Mercedes-AMG C-Class and the BMW M3.

It should also be worth mentioning that the Lexus IS F was the first model to break out of the Lexus stereotype of quiet, refined, and comfortable luxury vehicles - a reputation that started with the iconic Lexus LS 400.

2014 Lexus IS F Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Total Recalls: 2
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.4/5
• Edmunds Consumer Rating: 4.9/5
• Worst Lexus IS F Year To Buy Used: 2008 Lexus IS F (8 recalls, 110 NHTSA complaints, problems with airbags, fuel system leaks, brakes, engine valves, accelerator pedal, and wipers)

6 2021 Lexus LX

Current Used Car Price Range: $75,500 - $79,925

If you are looking for a large, luxurious SUV for your family, the 2021 Lexus LX is well worth your consideration. The third-generation (2008-2021) Lexus LX features a four-wheel drive that's able to provide the torque and traction requirements for some of the most challenging trails. Just like the Toyota Land Cruiser, the LX features an off-road crawl mode that makes braking and throttling over rough terrain quite effortless.

2021 Lexus LX Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $832 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,286 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 0
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 83/100
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.6/5
• Edmunds Rating: 4.3/5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2003 Lexus LX (3 recalls, 21 NHTSA complaints, problems with steering, airbags, and exterior lighting)

5 2022 Lexus RX

Current Used Car Price Range: $42,350 - $58,350

The midsize Lexus RX crossover SUV is America's best-selling luxury vehicle for 2022. Using either a 3.5-liter V6 engine (290 hp, 267 lb-ft) or a 308-hp hybrid V6 power plant, the 2022 Lexus RX is a capable and versatile crossover that comes either in a 5-seater or a 7-seater long-wheelbase format.

2022 Lexus RX Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,398 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 0
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 85/100
• CR Reliability Rating: 4/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.1/5
• Edmunds Rating: 7.7/10
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4.5/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2004 Lexus RX (6 recalls, 324 NHTSA complaints, problems with crankshaft pulley, exterior lighting, seatbelts, brakes, and vehicle speed control)

4 2015 Lexus RX

Current Used Car Price Range: 18,447 - 19,541

Lexus is unwavering in its belief that hybrid powertrains are superior to diesel engines. This is why it equipped the award-winning third-generation RX with hybrid technology. Each model of the third-generation Lexus RX never failed to clinch the prize for the Best Crossover for the Money by U.S. News.

Concerning reliability, the RX hits a five-star rating with U.S. News. Although this luxury crossover is not exactly a sporty SUV, the spacious cabin and cargo area make it a perfect car for the family.

2015 Lexus RX Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,398 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 1
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 90/100
• CR Reliability Rating: 5/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.5/5
• Edmunds Rating: 4.3/5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4.5/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2004 Lexus RX (6 recalls, 324 NHTSA complaints, problems with crankshaft pulley, exterior lighting, seatbelts, brakes, and vehicle speed control)

3 2018 Lexus NX

Current Used Car Price Range: $24,950 - $28,425

The Lexus NX is a luxury compact crossover based on the popular Toyota RAV4. As the 4th model year of the nameplate's pioneer generation, the 2018 Lexus NX carried a turbocharged mill as well as a hybrid powerplant as its two engine options. With its compact size, impressive interior, and decent engine power, the Lexus NX is a very worthy competitor to the Acura RDX, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and BMW X1.

• 2.0-liter turbo I4 (235 hp, 258 lb-ft, 25 MPG combined)
• 2.5-liter hybrid I4 (194 hp, 31 MPG combined)

2018 Lexus NX Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $551 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,136 (CarEdge)
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 87/100
• CR Reliability Rating: 5/5
• Recalls: 1
• KBB Consumer Review Score: 4.5/5
• Edmunds Rating: 4.2/5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2015 Lexus NX (2 recalls, 24 NHTSA complaints, problems with fuel pump and airbags)

2 2017 Lexus NX

Current Used Car Price Range: $18,787 - $21,338

Many compact crossover enthusiasts were excited when the Lexus NX debuted for the 2015 model year. As the best-selling RX's first smaller brother, the NX generated a buzz among younger luxury crossover SUV fans due to its novelty, diamond-inspired design, and relatively reasonable price point. For 2017, all Lexus NX trims (the turbocharged gas-only Lexus 200t and the hybrid NX 300h) gained a Scout GPS Link navigation app. Moreover, the Lexus NX 300h came exclusively as an all-wheel-drive variant.

2017 Lexus NX Reliability

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $633 - $773 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $7,136 (CarEdge)
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 87/100
• CR Reliability Rating: 5/5
• Recalls: 0
• KBB Consumer Review Score: 4.5/5
• Edmunds Rating: 4/5
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4/5
• Worst Year To Buy Used: 2022 Lexus NX (67/100 J.D. Power quality and reliability score, the lowest since the NX was launched)

1 2017 Lexus ES

Current Used Car Price Range: $21,750 - $23,275

The Lexus ES is a luxury midsize sedan that offers an excellent blend of automotive refinement, comfort, and luxury at a more affordable price point than that of the flagship Lexus LS. The 2017 Lexus ES came with 2 engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 (268 hp, 248 lb-ft) and a 2.5-liter hybrid I4 powerplant that delivers a 200-hp system output.

2017 Lexus ES Reliability

J.D. Power gave the 2017 Lexus ES a 96/100 quality and reliability score – the best reliability rating that any Lexus model has received for the past decade.

• Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $570 (RepairPal)
• Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,662 (CarEdge)
• Total Recalls: 1
• J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Score: 96/100
• CR Reliability Rating: 5/5
• KBB Consumer Rating: 4.6/5
• Edmunds Rating: 4.7/4
• RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4.5/5
• Worst Lexus ES Year To Buy Used: 2007 Lexus ES (5 recalls, 650 NHTSA complaints, problems with airbags and accelerator pedal entrapment)