LEXUS IS250 (2005)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,290 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
1,290
Avg Mileage
115,854 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2005 LEXUS IS250 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the LEXUS brand average of 87%.
At 19 years old, 81% of LEXUS IS250s from 2005 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,290 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 115,854 miles.
How does the 2005 LEXUS IS250 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2005 LEXUS IS250 has 115,854 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 140,600 miles for a 19-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a LEXUS IS250?
The most reliable year is the 2011 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 80%. The 2005 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2005 LEXUS IS250 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
LEXUS IS250 by Year
Checking a specific LEXUS IS250?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2005 LEXUS IS250
The 2005 LEXUS IS250 is a premium with a 2499cc petrol engine. 1,290 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It ranks in the top 23% of all 2005 cars for reliability.
With an average of 115,854 miles at 19 years old, LEXUS IS250 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2005 LEXUS IS250 Fuel Costs
The 2499cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2005 LEXUS IS250?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
LEXUS IS250 Reliability Trend
Newer LEXUS IS250s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2005 LEXUS IS250
At 19 years old, the LEXUS IS250 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2011 model has the highest pass rate at 93%.
Alternatives to the 2005 LEXUS IS250
The LEXUS IS250 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premiums from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- AUDI TT (2007) 80% pass rate (-1%) from 17,399 tests
- SAAB 9-3 (2007) 76% pass rate (-5%) from 13,261 tests
- MERCEDES A-CLASS (2006) 72% pass rate (-9%) from 8,389 tests
- MERCEDES E (2005) 78% pass rate (-3%) from 8,269 tests