2011 Lexus IS 350 C Review

Name: 2011 Lexus IS 350 C
Brand: Lexus
Price: 5178 USD
Rating: 4.8 (21 reviews)

Price Estimate: $5,178 - $7,814

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Average price: $14,583

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Appraise My 2011 Lexus IS 350 C

Lexus IS 350 C model years

Lexus IS 350 C for Sale

Edmunds' Expert Review

by the Edmunds Experts

Pros

High-quality interior
smooth ride quality
all-weather hardtop
many safety features
golfer-friendly trunk.

Cons

Poor rear visibility
limited top-down trunk space
cramped backseat
rear end looks awkward.

What’s new

For 2011, the Lexus IS 350 C sees only a few interior and exterior cosmetic changes, the most prominent being optional LED daytime running lights.

Edmunds says

The 2011 Lexus IS 350 C delivers high levels of comfort and refinement in a hardtop convertible, but it's not without a few compromises.

For sale near Ashburn, VA

9 listings

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2011 Lexus IS 350 C
Base Convertible
$23,950
- 57,773 miles
- 1 accident, 2 owners, personal use only
- 6cyl automatic
- DC Motors (422 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
Close
Located in Hampstead, NH
Visit Milford Auto Annex LLC dba DC Motors online at www.dcmotorsnh.com to see more pictures of this vehicle or call us at 603-965-3466 today to sched...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
22 Combined MPG (20 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHFE2C22B2505192
Stock: 3174
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 10-05-2025
2011 Lexus IS 350 C
Base Convertible
$10,695
fair price
$528 below market
- 166,452 miles
- 3 accidents, 3 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 6cyl automatic
- US Express Auto (510 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
Close
Located in Peachtree Corners, GA
Adaptive HeadlightsAdditional AirbagsAdjustable Lumbar SupportAlloy WheelsAnti-Theft SystemApproach LightsAuto-dimming Rearview MirrorAutomatic Climat...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
22 Combined MPG (20 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHFE2C2XB2505215
Stock: 6240
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 07-23-2024

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Vehicle overview

Sometimes, compromise is a good thing. Without it, we would forever be wrapped in deadlock and a comfortable middle ground wouldn't exist. The 2011 Lexus IS 350 C is a prime example of how advantages can be taken in compromise. One admirable feature might negatively impact the vehicle in another area, but on the whole, this Lexus convertible represents a solid choice for drivers who want a little of everything.

A retractable hardtop-style convertible provides plenty of advantages. First of all, the electrically powered top goes up or down in a mere 20 seconds. In terms of safety and security, it's certainly a good thing to have a steel shell instead of a piece of cloth between you and the elements (or a thief with a box cutter). The IS 350 C's retractable roof provides even more enticement with its tightly sealed gaps that reduce wind noise to a hush. The compromises come in the form of reduced trunk space when the top is stowed, reduced rear visibility and a rather ungainly appearance from behind.

Concessions have been made in other areas as well. The IS 350 C's suspension ably insulates the passengers from ruts and bumps, but will disappoint drivers looking for lively handling. Having rear seats in a convertible adds convenience, but the limited space back there makes them appropriate for the smallest of passengers only. One area free of compromise, however, is the high-quality interior that is synonymous with the Lexus nameplate.

The 2011 Lexus IS 350 C isn't the only choice for a luxury convertible, with competitors presenting their own strengths and weaknesses. Within this price range, the 2011 Audi A5, 2011 BMW 3 Series, Infiniti G37 and 2011 Volvo C70 are all worth consideration. Shoppers who place a low priority on performance could be well served by the nearly identical and more affordable Lexus IS 250 C, which is covered in a separate review.

Performance & mpg

The 2011 Lexus IS 350 C comes with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 306 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission that includes manual shift control.

An Edmunds test of an IS 350 C (fitted with plenty of optional F Sport performance accessories) yielded a 0-60-mph time of 5.9 seconds. EPA fuel economy estimates come in at 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.

Safety

The IS 350 C comes standard with antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags, front-seat side curtain airbags, front-seat knee airbags and Lexus Safety Connect emergency telematics. Included with the optional adaptive cruise control is Lexus' Pre-Collision System, which can retract the front seatbelts and activate brake assist immediately when the driver presses the brake pedal if an impending collision is detected.

In Edmunds brake testing, a Lexus IS 350 C (again with the F Sport upgrades) came to a stop from 60 mph in an impressive 111 feet.

Driving

Top up or down, the 2011 Lexus IS 350 C delivers high levels of refinement. The body structure is shake-free even when driving over rough pavement, and the folding hardtop provides impressive isolation from highway wind noise. Acceleration is significantly quicker than its IS 250 C twin, so for drivers who desire more lively performance, the IS 350 C is the obvious choice. The soft suspension and lifeless steering are tuned more for comfort than spirited handling, but the optional F Sport dealer accessory parts are able to add some spice to the mix.

Interior

The 2011 Lexus IS 350 C boasts first-class accommodations in terms of premium materials and sporty design. As expected from any Lexus, fit and finish is top notch. The navigation controls feature a mix of physical and touchscreen buttons for intuitive operation. Unfortunately, some climate and audio controls are also run through the touchscreen display and cannot be adjusted when you're viewing the navigation system.

Whether the top is raised or lowered, the IS 350 C's climate control automatically adjusts fan speed and distribution to maintain optimum comfort. The audio system also adapts to al frescomotoring by adjusting the equalizer settings based on wind noise.

Convertibles generally place little emphasis on rear seat comfort, and the IS 350 C is no different. With one of the smallest backseats in its class, space is at a premium for even the smallest of passengers. As with most retractable hardtops, trunk space is significantly reduced when the top is stowed. At its maximum, the trunk offers a decent capacity of 10.8 cubic feet. With the top folded, that figure drops to a puny 2.4 cubes. Fortunately, what remaining space there is will still accommodate a golf bag.

2011 Lexus IS 350 C models

The four-passenger 2011 Lexus IS 350 C is a retractable-hardtop convertible that is offered in one well-appointed trim level. Standard equipment on the IS 350 C includes 17-inch wheels, foglamps, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, 10-way power front seats (includes two-way lumbar control), leather upholstery and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Also standard are the Safety Connect telematics system, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and an eight-speaker stereo with a six-CD changer, satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack and an iPod/USB interface.

The Navigation System package adds a hard-drive-based navigation system, Bluetooth phonebook downloading, a rearview camera, voice commands, real-time traffic and other information, and Lexus Enform (enhanced telematics features). A 14-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system can be added to the navigation system. The Luxury package adds xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lights, auto-dimming outside mirrors, automatic wipers, driver memory functions, ventilated front seats and wood trim.

Stand-alone options include a few of the items listed in the above packages, plus 18-inch wheels, front and rear parking sensors and adaptive cruise control with Lexus' Pre-Collision System.

Compare 2011 Lexus IS 350 C trim levels

Owners' Opinions

What Owners Like

Owners of the 2011 Lexus IS 350 C consistently appreciate its seamless blend of luxury and performance. The convertible's smooth ride and nimble handling make daily commutes and spirited drives equally enjoyable. Many praise the potent acceleration from the 3.5-liter V6, which rivals that of larger engines while maintaining commendable fuel efficiency. The interior is also a standout, with high-quality materials and an intuitive layout that keeps comfort and convenience at the forefront. People find the infotainment system user-friendly and appreciate features like the advanced Mark Levinson sound system and responsive navigation controls. Furthermore, the hardtop structure is praised for its robust build quality, effectively minimizing road noise and adding a sense of security.

Common Issues

Owners of the 2011 Lexus IS 350 C often express frustration with the car's limited trunk space when the convertible top is down, which significantly restricts practicality for anything more than small luggage. Another common issue is the rear seat's cramped dimensions, rendering it useful only for very small passengers, limiting flexibility for those who hoped to carry more than two adults. Visibility is a notable concern as well, with many finding rear visibility compromised by the car’s design. Some drivers have experienced persistent roof rattles and other noises that detract from the otherwise premium driving experience. Additionally, the Bluetooth system has been a point of contention, with some struggling to sync their devices seamlessly, particularly with iPhones. Despite these issues, the overall experience of driving the IS 350 C remains positive for most, though these pain points can temper the enthusiasm for the car.

Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers

The 2011 Lexus IS 350 C stands out in everyday driving for its impressive blend of luxury and sportiness that keeps owners engaged behind the wheel. Day-to-day satisfaction often stems from the car's potent engine and its ability to deliver solid performance while maintaining a refined ride. While frequent drives reveal some inconveniences, like limited storage space with the top down and the occasional rattle from the roof, the vehicle's overall reliability consistently garners praise. Owners frequently mention that maintenance is straightforward, with many encountering minimal issues even after putting significant mileage on the car. The thoughtful design touches, from the high-quality interior to the responsive infotainment system, enhance the everyday driving experience. Overall, for those who prioritize an invigorating yet comfortable drive, the IS 350 C continues to capture attention with its blend of style and substance…

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$278/mo

$233/mo

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Reliability

The 2011 Lexus IS 350 C has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 7 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

7 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 19V741000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: J0A, J0B,
Manufactured from:: 2008-04-23 to 2008-12-04
Number of vehicles affected:: 928203
Defect Description:: 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.
Defect Consequence:: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the driver or front passenger air bag inflator or the air bag assembly using an alternate inflator , free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 15, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J0A, J0B, and J0C. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK.

Recall Number:: 19V005000
Manufactured from:: 2009-04-17 to 2015-08-03
Number of vehicles affected:: 1299448
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Toyota 4Runner, 2014-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, and 2014-2017 Lexus GX460 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Toyota is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS250, IS350, 2011-2016 4Runner, 2011-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2011-2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, 2011-2017 Lexus GX460, and 2011-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Toyota is also recalling certain 2010-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS350, 2010-2016 4Runner, 2010-2013 Lexus IS250, 2010-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2010-2014 Lexus IS-F, and 2010-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Defect Consequence:: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. The recall is expected to begin February 11, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are "Zone A" Toyota: G0P, Lexus: GLG; "Zone B" Toyota: G0R, Lexus GLH; "Zone C" Toyota: H0A, and Lexus: HLA.

Recall Number:: 18V432000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: JLF
Manufactured from:: 2008-11-25 to 2014-08-05
Number of vehicles affected:: 114998
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2007-2011 Lexus GS350 and GS450h, 2006-2013 Lexus IS350 and 2010-2014 Lexus IS350C vehicles, equipped with 3.5L V6 2GR-FSE gasoline engines. The diaphragms in the fuel pulsation dampers may harden over time and develop cracks, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Defect Consequence:: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery pipe with a new pipe that has improved pulsation dampers, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin August 9, 2018. Owners may contact Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's number for this recall is JLF.

Recall Number:: 16V340000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: TG1P/G1R L
Manufactured from:: 2008-11-25 to 2011-08-31
Number of vehicles affected:: 1654713
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2009-2011 Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix, 2006-2011 Toyota Yaris, Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350, 2010-2011 Toyota 4Runner, Lexus IS250C, Lexus IS350C and Lexus GX460, 2011 Sienna, 2007-2011 Lexus ES350, and 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2007-2008 Toyota Yaris, 2006-2008 Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350 and 2007-2008 Lexus ES350 vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Vehicles of these model years and models that were not originally sold or ever registered in either Zones A or B are not subject to this safety recall. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Defect Consequence:: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify the Toyota and Lexus owners. General Motors will contact the Pontiac owners. Depending on the model, dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator or the air bag assembly, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not yet available were mailed on July 6, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for interim notification for this campaign are G1P (Toyota Zone A), G1R (Toyota Zone B), G2G (Lexus Zone A), and G2H (Lexus Zone B). Toyota's numbers for final remedy for this campaign are G0P (Toyota Zone A), G0R (Toyota Zone B), GLG (Lexus Zone A), and GLH (Lexus Zone B).

Recall Number:: 14V647000
Number of vehicles affected:: 422509
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Lexus LS vehicles manufactured May 9, 2006, to July 20, 2010, 2006-2011 Lexus GS vehicles manufactured January 6, 2005, to September 10, 2010, and 2006-2011 Lexus IS vehicles manufactured August 30, 2005, to September 10, 2010. Due to anti-corrosion plating remnants, fuel may leak from where the fuel pressure sensor is attached to the fuel delivery pipe.
Defect Consequence:: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will clean and reseal the fuel pressure sensor mounting area, free of charge. The recall began March 3, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331.

Recall Number:: 13V395000
Manufactured from:: 2009-11-25 to 2011-07-19
Number of vehicles affected:: 101584
Defect Description:: 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.
Defect Consequence:: 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.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and Lexus dealers will replace the VVT unit free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Recall Number:: 13V030000
Manufactured from:: 2007-12-14 to 2011-07-10
Number of vehicles affected:: 267718
Defect Description:: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 vehicles manufactured August 23, 2005, through October 5, 2011; 2010-2012 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles manufactured April 10, 2009, through October 6, 2011; and 2008-2011 Lexus IS-F vehicles manufactured December 14, 2007, through July 10, 2011. The nuts that fasten the wiper arms may be insufficiently torqued such that if the wiper arms are restricted by an external load, such as a buildup of heavy snow, one or both of the wipers may become inoperative.
Defect Consequence:: Inoperative wipers could reduce driver visibility and increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and Lexus dealers will install new wiper arm nuts, free of charge. The recall will begin in late February 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 6 years / 70,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 6 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / unlimited miles

Lexus IS 350 C Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.8

21 reviews

5(90%)

4(0%)

3(10%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2011 IS 350 C Features & Specs

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$46,640
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$278/month
Seating	4 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	10.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Safety

Key safety features on the IS 350 C include:

Alarm
Tire Pressure Warning
Stability Control
Post-collision safety system

2011 Lexus IS 350 C Review

Price & Payment

Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What’s new

Edmunds says

For sale near Ashburn, VA

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Vehicle overview

Performance & mpg

Safety

Driving

Interior

2011 Lexus IS 350 C models

Owners' Opinions

What Owners Like

Common Issues

Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers

Cost to Drive

Reliability

Recalls

Warranty

Lexus IS 350 C Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2011 IS 350 C Features & Specs

Safety