Used Car Checklists

2021 Lexus IS: What to check before buying

Only 1 owner complaint is on file with NHTSA for this car, so this sheet is short. Problems reported on other IS years with the same design are listed below the checklist.

Lexus IS2021
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
0
Crashes reported
0
Reliability
Excellent
83/100 on Auto Reliability Index

Run the VIN before you go

A history report shows accidents, title brands, odometer readings, and open recalls for this 2021 Lexus IS. Ask the seller for the VIN; it is also on the dash at the base of the windshield.

Your inspection sheet

Tick items off on your phone at the car, or print it. Ticks stay on this device.

0/4 checked

1

Paperwork and questions

Before you go, or before you touch the car0/1

2

Cold start, engine bay, and underside

Ask the seller not to warm the car up first0/3

These checks are specific to this model year. For tires, body panels, fluids, and the other basics every used car needs, use the general inspection guide.

Reported on other IS years with the same design

Few owners have reported problems with this year yet. These years share the 2021's design and most of its parts, so their problems are the ones to look for on this car too.

2022 IS

13 owner complaints

Worth adding to your 2021 checks

  • Inspect suspension bushings for softness and premature wear.
  • Test for engine stalling during operation and check fuel pump functionality.
  • Examine bumper for separation issues, especially on driver side.
Open the 2022 checklist

2023 IS

9 owner complaints

Worth adding to your 2021 checks

  • Test transmission for slow downshifting response.
  • Inspect front bumper for cracks near passenger-side headlight.
  • Check moon roof for signs of stress or damage.
Open the 2023 checklist

2019 IS

8 owner complaints
  • Wheels and tires 2

Worth adding to your 2021 checks

  • Inspect each tire's bead and sidewall where it meets the rim for gaps, bulges, or damage.
  • Check whether the car runs Bridgestone Turanza EL400 tires and read the DOT code on each tire.
  • Make sure the low tire pressure warning light goes off after startup, and check all four pressures with a gauge.
Open the 2019 checklist

Which IS is it?

EPA figures for each version of the 2021 Lexus IS. Use them to confirm you are looking at the version that was advertised, and as a yardstick on the test drive.

VersionDriveEPA rating
2.0L 4-cylRWD25 mpg
3.5L 6-cylAWD, RWD22–23 mpg
  • The 2021 Lexus IS was sold in two versions. Confirm which one this is from the window sticker, the engine cover, or the VIN report before you compare prices.
  • Reset the trip computer at the start of the drive. A IS that averages well under the EPA 22 mpg combined on a mixed route may have an engine or tire problem.

Where the 2021 fits in the IS's history

Redesigns and mid-cycle updates change what can go wrong.

The 2021 is the eighth model year of the IS's third generation (2014–2023).

It includes the 2020 update.

What changed for 2020

  • Restyled headlamps and full-width taillamps
  • Updated dashboard and center console
  • Revised suspension for improved performance
  • Introduced new tech features including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

Also looking at these instead of a IS?

Cars shoppers compare with the Lexus IS, with their own 2021 checklists.

2021 owner complaints, side by side