The Lexus CT Years To Avoid
We've identified three Lexus CT years to avoid based on average ownership costs and common problems. See which ones so you can make a smart used car shopping decision.
When Lexus introduced the CT 200h in 2011, it was a bold move that showcased the brand’s forward-thinking approach to luxury and sustainability. As the first premium automaker to offer a hybrid hatchback, Lexus set itself apart from competitors like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, who had yet to venture into this eco-friendly segment. Though the CT 200h was discontinued in 2020 and replaced by the Lexus UX SUV, it remains a popular choice among savvy buyers in the used car market.
However, early models (2011-2013) were known for their overly firm ride, which may not appeal to all buyers. Thankfully, Lexus addressed this issue as the CT 200h evolved throughout its production run, making later model years (2014-2020) more attractive to a broader audience.
Buyers interested in a Lexus CT will want to know the problem-ridden years. As such, we have compiled the most problematic Lexus CT years to avoid so you can maximize your investment.
Which Lexus CT Years to Avoid?
The Lexus CT has an impressive track record in terms of reliability. The CT 200h is a reliability champion, topping the charts in the luxury compact car segment. With an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal, this hybrid hatchback boasts excellent ownership costs, averaging just $386 in annual repairs. Major issues are rare, with the CT 200h’s repair severity being notably low compared to its competitors.
Having said that, some years were still considered less reliable than others, thanks to various consumer complaints and known issues.
- 2011 Lexus CT 200h
- 2012 Lexus CT 200h
- 2013 Lexus CT 200h
2011 Lexus CT 200h
The debut CT is not exactly known for being problematic. However, some issues compelled us to include it on this list of Lexus CT years to avoid. Take a look at these major reliability issues:
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Engine Problems
Despite its reputation for reliability, the 2011 Lexus CT 200h has faced some concerning engine issues. One common complaint is the vehicle’s tendency to shake and shudder at low speeds, making acceleration a challenge. This problem is often accompanied by a sudden, jolting burst of speed once the car finally responds to the gas pedal, catching drivers off guard.
Another major issue plaguing the CT 200h is excessive oil consumption, with some owners reporting the need to add up to 5 quarts of oil between scheduled changes. This excessive oil burning can lead to white smoke emanating from the tailpipe, a telltale sign of a more serious problem. In extreme cases, catastrophic engine failure has occurred, with reports of connecting rods breaking through the engine block, leaving drivers stranded and facing costly repairs.
While Lexus has issued technical service bulletins (TSBs) to address related issues like intake manifold replacements, many owners feel these measures fail to address the underlying cause of the engine’s problems.
Service Brake Fault
The brakes are another major pain point for CT 200h owners. From sudden acceleration to a lack of response, these problems have led to accidents and injuries. While Lexus has issued a recall, many owners find themselves ineligible due to strict age and mileage requirements, leaving them to foot the bill for costly repairs. With an estimated 50,000 vehicles potentially affected, the automaker’s handling of this safety concern has left owners baffled and frustrated.
ARE LEXUSES EXPENSIVE TO MAINTAIN?
If you’re interested in Toyota’s luxury segment, you’re likely wondering: are Lexuses expensive to maintain?
Airbag System Issues
The 2011 Lexus CT 200h’s airbag system has been a source of concern for owners, with reports of failures to deploy in serious accidents. One driver experienced a harrowing incident in which their CT 200h slid off an icy road, colliding head-on with trees. Despite the severity of the crash, which totaled the car, the airbags failed to activate, leaving the occupant with injuries that could have been mitigated.
Moreover, the 2011 Lexus CT 200h is one of the vehicles affected by the Takata airbag recall. Takata supplied defective airbag inflators to numerous automakers, including Lexus, which can degrade over time and rupture upon deployment, potentially causing serious injury or even death to vehicle occupants.
2012 Lexus CT 200h
Sadly, the following year was considered a miss for the CT’s reliability.
Engine Woes Again
Like the debut model year, the 2012 Lexus CT 200h has faced its fair share of engine-related challenges. One of the most prominent issues drivers have encountered is excessive oil consumption, with some reporting the need to top up their oil at an alarmingly frequent rate. This problem seems to get worse as the vehicle ages, leading to concerns about the long-term health of the engine. In some cases, owners have even experienced sudden engine failure, often without any prior warning from the car’s oil monitoring system.
Alongside the oil consumption woes, the 2012 CT 200h has also been plagued by reports of engine knocking, misfires, and head gasket failures at relatively low mileage.
ARE LEXUS CARS RELIABLE?
Lexus cars are known for their look, performance, and durability. Though several drivers swear by the brand, those looking into the brand as their next vehicle wonder: are Lexus cars reliable?
Faulty Brakes
The 2012 CT 200h shares the same brake issues as its 2011 predecessor, with owners reporting problems like sudden loss of brake pressure when hitting bumps or potholes. This can lead to extended braking distances and a concerning lack of control. Some owners have also experienced delays between pressing the brake pedal and the brakes engaging, particularly on uneven roads.
2013 Lexus CT 200h
Last on this list of Lexus CT years to avoid is the 2013 iteration. Unfortunately, it retained many of the issues from the previous years, including the dreaded:
Problematic Engine
The 2013 Lexus CT 200h has received a lot of reports regarding engine-related headaches. Excessive oil consumption has emerged as a chief concern, with some drivers finding themselves constantly topping up the engine oil between scheduled maintenance visits. As the miles pile up, this issue only seems to get worse.
In the most severe cases, unsuspecting owners have been blindsided by catastrophic engine failures, often preceded by symptoms such as violent shaking, misfires, and drained coolant. The culprits behind these problems range from defective piston rings to oil contamination and head gasket mishaps.
If you don’t want to deal with these engine troubles, we highly suggest steering clear of the 2013 Lexus CT.
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