Best and Worst Toyota and Lexus Models Categorized by Their Reliability

Here’s the latest recommendation from a Toyota/Lexus mechanic on new and used Toyota and Lexus models when it comes to finding out just which are the best to buy, and which are the ones that should be avoided due to reliability issues. Plus: find out which models qualify as “Honorable Mentions” and those “Golden Oldies” that are still good buys to consider today.

Shopping for a Toyota or Lexus Warning

Earlier, we had learned from a Toyota mechanic about the origins of Lexus and whether or not Lexus is just a glorified Toyota. Today, that same mechanic---with years of experience working on Toyota and Lexus vehicles---comes to us with his recommendations on the best models of Toyota and Lexus for used and new car shoppers.

Related article: Stop Buying New Hondas or Toyotas and Buy This $4,000 Project Car Instead

But for new and used model Toyota and Lexus shoppers there’s more to the review than that. In fact, the host of the Car Care Nut YouTube channel also provides some very useful information about models of both makes that he considers to be the worst models with the warning that they should probably be avoided (especially when used) because of issues with engineering and design problems.

Related article: WORST SUVs of 2023 You Should Never Buy

The Car Care Nut

According to the host, “In this video I share with you the Best and Worst Toyota and Lexus Models for reliability. I work on various Toyota and Lexus models every day at my Toyota and Lexus specialty shop and the best models are the models that I rarely see come in for actual repair, they almost always come in for maintenance. And then there are some models that are always in the shop for heavy repairs and repeated issues that sometimes seem never ending.”

That said, follow along with the host in this very useful video warning.

Spoiler alert: If you want to know which vehicles made the best and worst list (and some honorable mentions) without watching the video, skip down to the “And finally…” section for the video spoiler. However, if you want the details of what separates each model into “best” and “worst” categories, be sure to watch the video in its entirety.

Best and Worst Toyota and Lexus Models for Reliability in 2023

And finally…

Best Toyota and Lexus Models

• 2013-2018 Toyota Avalon V6
• 2013-2018 Lexus ES350
• 2016-2018 Toyota Corolla
• 2016-2022 Toyota Prius
• 2013-2020 Lexus GS350
• 2014-2023 Lexus IS350 & RS350
• 2016-2018 RAV4
• 2015-2016 Toyota Highlander
• 2012-2015 Lexus RX350
• 2015-2021 Lexus NX200T
• 2012-2023 Toyota 4Runner
• All years Lexus GX460 & 470
• Toyota Land Cruiser (all models)

Honorable Mentions

• 2015-2017 Toyota Camry
• 2009-2015 Toyota Venza V6
• 2010-2015 Toyota Tacoma
• 2010-2021 Toyota Tundra
• 2010-2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Worst Toyota and Lexus Models

• Rusty Toyota Trucks (all models)
• 2007-2009 Lexus LS460
• 2010-2014 Toyota Prius
• 2016-2017 Toyota Tacoma
• 2006-2012 Toyota RAV4
• 2009 Toyota Corolla
• 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe (a Toyota Matrix in reality)

Older Recommended Models You May Want to Consider

• 2000-2004 Toyota Avalon
• 2004-2006 Toyota Camry V6
• 2004-2006 Lexus ES330
• 2005-2008 Toyota Corolla and Matrix
• 2004-2006 Lexus LS430

For more about Toyota and Lexus vehicles from this YouTube channel host, here are some popular articles for your consideration:

• Used Lexus Buying Advice About the Best and Worst Lexus Models

• Avoid This Lexus Model Advises Toyota Mechanic

• Toyota Mechanic Reveals the Truth About New and Used Lexus Models

Timothy Boyer is a Torque News automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for daily new and used vehicle news.

Image source: Pixabay