Lexus reliability and common MOT problems by model
Lexus shows a 10.9% combined MOT failure rate across 165,828 tests in Motintel data. Nx has one of the lower high-confidence rates at 5.3%. Ct deserves extra checking at 8.9%.
Data sources: DVSA MOT records, official recall records, and MOT fault wording snapshots (2026-04-27, 2026-04-29, rfr_codes_2025-05-12, failure items 2023). Search-indexed model pages must clear 20,000 MOT tests and 10,000 vehicles.
Lexus combined failure rate: 10.9% — all-model average is 18.7%. Ranked #7 of 48 makes by failure rate (1 = lowest).
Which Lexus models look strongest?
Nx (5.3%), Ct (8.9%)
Which Lexus models need extra caution?
Ct (8.9%), Nx (5.3%)
Most reliable Lexus models in MOT data
| # | Model | MOT failure rate | Tests | Vehicles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lexus Nx | 5.3% | 26,192 tests | 23,618 vehicles |
| 2 | Lexus Ct | 8.9% | 33,456 tests | 29,101 vehicles |
Lexus models with the highest MOT failure rates
| # | Model | MOT failure rate | Tests | Vehicles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lexus Ct | 8.9% | 33,456 tests | 29,101 vehicles |
| 2 | Lexus Nx | 5.3% | 26,192 tests | 23,618 vehicles |
Common Lexus MOT problem areas
| # | Problem area | MOT notes | Models affected | What to check | High-rate examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Windscreen, wipers, and mirrors | 3,263 MOT notes | 2 models | Check the windscreen, wipers, washers, mirrors, chips, cracks, and whether the driver's view is clear. | Lexus Ct, Lexus Nx |
| 2 | Lights and electrical | 1,788 MOT notes | 2 models | Test every exterior light, warning lamp, horn, washer, and basic electrical function before buying. | Lexus Ct, Lexus Nx |
| 3 | Suspension and steering | 1,684 MOT notes | 2 models | Listen for knocks, check uneven tyre wear, and ask whether worn joints or bushes have been replaced. | Lexus Ct, Lexus Nx |
| 4 | Corrosion and structure | 1,394 MOT notes | 2 models | Inspect sills, subframes, suspension mounts, brake pipes, and previous welding or rust repairs. | Lexus Ct, Lexus Nx |
| 5 | Tyres and wheels | 1,083 MOT notes | 2 models | Look for matching tyres, legal tread, sidewall damage, wheel damage, and uneven wear. | Lexus Nx, Lexus Ct |
| 6 | Emissions, engine, and exhaust | 407 MOT notes | 2 models | Check cold starts, exhaust smoke, warning lights, service history, and recent emissions repairs. | Lexus Ct, Lexus Nx |
All Lexus model reports
| Model | MOT tests | Vehicles | Failure rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ct | 33,456 | 29,101 | 8.9% |
| Nx | 26,192 | 23,618 | 5.3% |
| Is limited data | 14,376 | 12,174 | 8.1% |
| Rx limited data | 14,080 | 12,985 | 4.8% |
| Is250 limited data | 11,785 | 9,654 | 16.7% |
| Rx400h limited data | 9,205 | 7,484 | 17.5% |
| Is200 limited data | 8,395 | 6,585 | 22.1% |
| Rx450h limited data | 8,185 | 6,799 | 14.8% |
| Ux limited data | 7,858 | 7,212 | 3.3% |
| Is220 limited data | 6,819 | 5,380 | 19.6% |
| Rx300 limited data | 5,000 | 3,930 | 21.6% |
| Gs limited data | 3,797 | 3,317 | 7.6% |
| Gs300 limited data | 3,481 | 2,820 | 19.0% |
| Rc limited data | 2,534 | 2,227 | 8.7% |
| Es limited data | 2,313 | 2,011 | 4.6% |
| Sc430 limited data | 2,130 | 1,753 | 17.3% |
| Gs450h limited data | 1,558 | 1,286 | 15.5% |
| Ls430 limited data | 1,322 | 1,126 | 14.4% |
| Ls400 limited data | 1,188 | 967 | 18.4% |
| Rx 450h Luxury Cvt limited data | 1,120 | 1,006 | 8.8% |
| Rx350 limited data | 1,034 | 817 | 19.8% |
Models with limited data (fewer than 20,000 tests or 10,000 vehicles) have full reports but are not indexed in search engines until the evidence threshold is met.