Lexus

CT (ZWA10)

2011-2017 · Compact Sedan ยท 1 engine
Best Engine โŒ Avoid (1.3)
158 NHTSA Complaints
0 Recalls
2 Fire Reports
13 Crash Reports
๐Ÿ“‹ Inspection checklist

Engine Reliability Ratings

2ZR-FXE+3JM

1.8L 4-cyl / 98 hp
โŒ Avoid (1.3)
145 complaints 20.7 per year Gasoline
2 fire reports 99 fatalities
View details

Complaint Breakdown

brakes
54
engine
41
electrical
22
safety systems
17
other
12

Known Issues

Brakes Issues (54 complaints)
Engine Issues (41 complaints)
Est. repair: $350โ€“$3,500 (5 reports)
Electrical System Issues (22 complaints)

1 additional engine variant with fewer than 10 complaints not shown.

Vehicle-Level Issues

These issues affect the Lexus CT regardless of engine variant.

Brakes Issues (54 complaints)
brakes critical
Engine Issues (41 complaints)
engine critical
Electrical System Issues (22 complaints)
electrical critical
Safety Systems Issues (19 complaints)
safety_systems critical

Alternatives in Compact Sedan

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2011-2017 Lexus CT problems?

The 2011-2017 Lexus CT has accumulated 158 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Brakes, Engine, Electrical System. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Lexus CT engine is most reliable?

The 2011-2017 Lexus CT was offered with 2 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 1.8L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2011-2017 Lexus CT a good used car?

The 2011-2017 Lexus CT can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 158 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2011-2017 Lexus CT have?

The 2011-2017 Lexus CT has 158 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2011-2017 Lexus CT?

There are 0 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2011-2017 Lexus CT vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN โ€” check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Lexus CT?

Before buying a used Lexus CT, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Brakes, Engine, Electrical System, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

Does the CT have NHTSA crash test ratings?

NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2011-2017 Lexus CT. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 158 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.

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