SC (Z40)
Engine Reliability Comparison
2JZ-GE
3.0L 6-cyl / 215 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
3UZ-FE
4.3L 8-cyl / 300 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Lexus SC regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (1)
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2002-2010 Lexus SC problems?
The 2002-2010 Lexus SC has accumulated 133 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Safety Systems, Wheels/Tires, Brakes. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Lexus SC engine is most reliable?
The 2002-2010 Lexus SC was offered with 2 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 4.3L 8-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2002-2010 Lexus SC a good used car?
The 2002-2010 Lexus SC can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 133 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 2002-2010 Lexus SC have?
The 2002-2010 Lexus SC has 133 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 2002-2010 Lexus SC?
There is 1 NHTSA recall affecting some 2002-2010 Lexus SC vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — 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 SC?
Before buying a used Lexus SC, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Safety Systems, Wheels/Tires, Brakes, 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.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 133 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-06.