LEXUS LS (2008)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 155 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,757
£230/month
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Good
Road Tax
£760
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 35-50
4969cc Hybrid
Solid Option
82% pass rate, £2757/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~30 mpg
Based on 4969cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
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 18 years old, 82% of LEXUS LSs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 155 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 113,444 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
113,444
Average miles
133,200
Expected for age
The average 2008 LEXUS LS has 113,444 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 100% MOT pass rate, while the 2015 model has the lowest at 81%. The 2008 sits between the two at 82%.
LEXUS LS by Year
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About the 2008 LEXUS LS
The 2008 LEXUS LS is a premium performance with a 4969cc hybrid engine. 155 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 113,444 miles at 18 years old, LEXUS LS owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 LEXUS LS Fuel Costs
The 4969cc hybrid engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current hybrid prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). As a hybrid, real-world fuel costs will vary significantly depending on how much electric-only driving you do.
What does it cost to own a 2008 LEXUS LS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,757 (£230/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £760 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
LEXUS LS Reliability Trend
Newer LEXUS LSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 LEXUS LS
At 18 years old, the LEXUS LS 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 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 100%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2008 LEXUS LS's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Hybrid Battery Health
Watch outAfter 18 years, hybrid battery capacity may have reduced. A full replacement costs £2,000-£4,000, though reconditioning is cheaper at £500-£1,500.
Inverter and Power Electronics
Medium riskThe inverter converts DC to AC for the electric motor. Failures are expensive (£1,500+) but relatively rare. Listen for unusual buzzing sounds.
Regenerative Braking
Medium riskBrake discs can corrode from reduced use (the electric motor handles most braking). Surface rust is normal but deep pitting needs attention.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 113k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
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