NHTSA lists 1 safety recall and 5 owner complaints for the 1996 Lexus GS300. Most complaints involve suspension (2) and visibility (1). The EPA rates it 18 mpg combined.
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INADEQUATE LUBRICATION OF THE INSIDE OF THE LOWER BALL JOINTS, EXCESSIVE WEAR CAN OCCUR CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE LOWER BALL JOINTS. SEPARATION OF THE LOWER BALL JOINTS FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE ARMS COULD OCCUR.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“SHOCKS ARE TOO SOFT FOR VEHICLE REQUIRING REPLACEMENT.”
“THIS SERIES OF LEXUS APPARENTLY HAS A DEFECT OF THE INSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR THAT CAUSE THE MIRROR INSIDE SURFACE TO CLOUD UP TO THE POINT OF BEING INOPERATIVE. MY UNIT BEGAN TO FAIL EARLY IN THE CAR'S LIFE BUT JUST AS THE WARRANTY PERIOD EXPIRED IT BECAME NEARLY USELESS. LEXUS NOR THE DEALER WOULD NOT COVER THIS SAFETY DEFECT. *TR”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS 300 Auto 5-spd, 6 cyl, 3.0 L · Rear-Wheel Drive | 16 | 22 | 18 | $4,400 | 494 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
1 safety recall as of Oct 29, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 5 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are suspension (2), visibility (1), structure (1). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 1996 Lexus GS300 at 18 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (1 version rated).