The problem
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Lexus GS350 vehicles manufactured June 19, 2006, through July 12, 2011; and model year 2006-2011 Lexus IS350 vehicles manufactured May 27, 2005, through July 13, 2011; and model year 2010-2011 Lexus IS350c vehicles manufactured November 25, 2009, through July 19, 2011. These vehicles, equipped with the 2GR-FSE engine, use bolts to secure the housing and sprocket of the Variable-Valve Timing (VVT) system gear assembly. These bolts could become loose due to abnormal impacts generated within the gear assembly immediately after a cold start-up.
The risk
The loose bolts could cause the VVT gear housing and sprocket to separate and result in the engine stopping while the vehicle is being driven, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Toyota will notify owners, and Lexus dealers will replace the VVT unit free of charge. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 13V-395 (13V395000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Component | Engine |
| Report date | September 4, 2013 |
| Owners notified | October 9, 2013 |
| Vehicles affected | 101,584 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the engine & cooling
- 2007 Lexus GS 350 engine problems 12
- 2008 Lexus GS 350 engine problems 6
- 2009 Lexus GS 350 engine problems 2
- 2010 Lexus GS 350 engine problems 1
- 2006 Lexus IS 350 engine problems 14
- 2007 Lexus IS 350 engine problems 6
- 2008 Lexus IS 350 engine problems 2
- 2009 Lexus IS 350 engine problems 1
- 2010 Lexus IS 350 engine problems 1
- 2011 Lexus IS 350 engine problems 2
- 2010 Lexus IS 350C engine problems 1
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 13V-395 repair free?
Yes. Lexus dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Toyota will notify owners, and Lexus dealers will replace the VVT unit free of charge. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 101,584 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.