Are you familiar with the Lexus CT200h problems?
In the 21-year history of Lexus Australia, the CT 200h is the company’s first hatchback and four-cylinder vehicle. It is also the first premium hybrid hatchback in the world that provide a more fuel-efficient substitute for the Germans’ diesel models.
The tiny Lexus is equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with 73kW/142Nm of torque and a 60kW/207Nm electric motor. The vehicle also has an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT).
100 kW is the maximum power output. The nickel-metal-hydride battery pack behind the back seat retains the charge generated while braking, which powers the electric motor.
According to official figures, the CT 200h uses 4.1 liters of premium unleaded fuel per 100 kilometers and produces 95g of CO2 each mile [1]. Owners of the CT 200h have a choice of four driving modes thanks to the Drive Mode Select feature.
The car operates only on battery power in EV mode, requiring no fuel and emitting no pollutants. It is ideal for parking lots and 40 mph school zones because it can cruise silently below 45 km/h for up to 2 km on a fully charged battery.
Lexus CT200h Problems
In general, all Lexus CT200h generations have had issues with loud braking noises brought on by brake actuator failure. Additionally, vehicles from 2011 to 2013 consume too much oil and prematurely use halogen headlight bulbs.
In temperatures lower than 45F, the same model years are prone to engine misfiring. Even though these problems are not too serious, one shouldn’t overlook them.
Because they might later face severe challenges as a result. The following are some of the reported problems of the Lexus CT200h.
Most Common Lexus CT200h Problems
- Braking issues
The Lexus CT200h’s brake pads tend to lose effectiveness more quickly than they ought to. This is particularly true if you reside somewhere with severe winters and a lot of rain.
It’s critical to monitor your brake pads if you frequently drive in these conditions to ensure that they are not degrading too quickly. Additionally, the CT200h’s strong braking noise is one of the most often reported issues.
Many people report that this occurs at lesser speeds (below 15 mph). However, it’s not unusual to hear the sound at higher speeds.
On certain CT200h forums, owners of the car frequently mention hearing two distinct noises that can be classified as “screeching” or “ticking” noises. The car’s braking issue happens earlier than the manufacturer had predicted.
Owners and dealerships realized that brake actuator failure was the root of the issue. Toyota increased the warranty on this component to ten years and 150,000 miles for several Lexus models.
For the CT200h, however, this was not the case, therefore owners must resolve this issue on their own. It costs a lot of money to replace broken brake actuators.
The cost of an original Lexus brake actuator is $1,200, and labor takes about three hours. This implies that you will need to pay at least $1,500. Some owners even claim to have received quotes of up to $3,000 for this replacement.
Even though the issue was identified in a CT200h made in 2011, it was still found in 2017 cars, indicating that the issue affects all CT200h model years.
Ensure the brake actuators have been replaced with genuine Toyota/Lexus brake actuators if you plan to purchase this vehicle.
- Exterior Lights issues
The halogen low beam headlight bulbs’ lifespan is one of the CT200h’s often mentioned issues. The halogen low beam headlight bulbs had the drawback of wearing out quickly after their warranty expired (after four years or 50,000 miles).
Due to the widespread nature of the issue, Lexus extended the warranty on these lamps for the vehicles from 2011 to 2013 through October 2019.
However, it also means that CT200h vehicles now on the road should prepare for an early replacement of their headlights.
The halogen lamps Lexus uses in the CT200h are very expensive (they cost about $400 for a set plus another $80 to $100 for work). It’s interesting to note that halogen lamps aren’t always to blame for this issue.
The true cause of the issue is a flawed wiring circuit. After changing the bulbs, owners have in rare instances even reported their automobile catching fire.
It must be understood, though, that this is not typical. The issue has primarily been observed in models from 2011 to 2015.
- Violent Starting
Violent shuddering when the Lexus CT200h is started is another issue that has been noted. This seems to be a problem when the outdoor temperature is below 4.5 Celsius.
For this specific issue, Lexus did release a technical service bulletin for the cars from 2011 to 2013 [3]. The issue appeared to be a rough idle or engine misfiring as a result of moisture build-up in the intake manifold [4].
The intake manifold has to be replaced according to the service bulletin. Many times, this issue was resolved as part of a warranty that was valid for six years or 70,000 miles.
If you reside in a cooler climate and are looking to purchase a used CT200h, you must be aware of this issue. Be careful to test the vehicle in the winter (if possible).
Additionally, check to see if the car hasn’t been warmed up by the owner to hide this issue. Replacing an intake manifold on the CT200h costs $300 to $400, labor included.
- High Oil Consumption
Several complaints have been made concerning the oil consumption of the CT200h. Owners claim that between oil changes, 5 quarts of oil must be added.
This leads to owners running out of engine oil on lengthy journeys, which causes the engine to overheat [5].
Lexus dealers reportedly informed CT200h owners that this is normal oil consumption. For these engines, Toyota did provide a technical service bulletin.
They only did this, though, for the Prius models that shared the same issue. Overall, the CT200h’s owners were left in a bind with an oil-guzzling engine.
The only option in this situation is to keep adding oil whenever you run out. Furthermore, this high oil consumption will lead to greater wear and tear, which means the engine will eventually need to be replaced.
- Problem with airbags
The recall of Autoliv airbags affecting 482,000 Toyota hybrid cars was another issue (including the CT200h). The roof rails on the driver’s and passenger’s sides contain these airbags. [6]
These airbag inflators were made of two chambers joined together by welding. However, there was a welding breach that can enlarge with time. Only the models from 2011 and 2012 experienced this.
Partially inflating the airbag is possible if the chambers separate. As a result, bits of the inflator might enter the cabin and endanger the people inside.
To prevent them from separating, retention brackets were welded around this portion of the airbag as part of the recall. If you’re considering a CT200h from this model year ensure this recall has been implemented before buying.
Lexus CT200h vs Competitors
The Lexus CT200h is the only tiny hybrid luxury hatchback on the market, hence it doesn’t have any direct rivals [7]. Nevertheless, depending on what you’re seeking in a car, there is a handful that can compete with it in terms of fuel efficiency or brand segment.
The Toyota Prius is marginally roomier in its best-equipped models, but it isn’t as interesting or appealing.
The Ford C-Max is a family vehicle with more technology than you may anticipate for a non-luxury car, but it doesn’t get as good of a gas mileage as Toyota models.
The Audi A3 is one of the best-driving cars in the market even if it is no longer available in its traditional hatchback form. However, a fuel-efficient diesel wagon is on the way.
Although it has more interior room than the CT and is a delight to drive, the VW GTI doesn’t come in a hybrid version.
There is also the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, which is far superior to the competition in terms of brand cachet but is not even close to the CT 200h’s fuel efficiency.
Related: Lexus IS300h Common Problems
Repair and Maintenance of the Lexus CT200h
A lengthy lifespan for your Lexus CT200h is what you want. The CT200h should continue to operate far into the 200,000-mile mark with preventative maintenance.
You can prevent problems with your CT200h before they even start, as opposed to waiting for one to happen. Following the suggested maintenance regimen created for your Lexus CT200h will make it simple [8].
This plan was created by Lexus with the car’s particular needs in mind. The planned maintenance requirements may change based on local weather and driving conditions, as well as other contributing factors, such as your travel patterns.
Most of the time recommended maintenance will include procedures like fluid exchanges, filter replacements, installation of new brake pads, oil changes, and tire rotations.
Maintaining regular maintenance appointments is a wonderful way to extend the life of your Lexus CT200h.
It will also improve vehicle safety, and perhaps even spare you the hassle of dealing with typical issues down the road. Depending on your service provider, the estimated cost to maintain a Lexus CT200h is around $730 annually.
Costs for repairs and maintenance change with age, mileage, location, and shop. Make sure to purchase the Lexus CT200h repair manual and use it whenever necessary. [9].
The most typical Lexus CT200h issues, as well as diagnostic and repair techniques, are thoroughly covered in the CT200h maintenance handbook.
The manual will assist you in servicing, repairing, rebuilding, refurbishing, or restoring your car like a professional technician.
Read Next: Lexus NX 300h Problems
Conclusion
The Lexus CT200h features a significantly enhanced chassis, a sturdy and remarkable handling car thanks to the reinforced body, and better suspension.
Despite the engine and gearbox’s leaning toward economy, it is enjoyable to drive around town and consistently returns great fuel efficiency figures.
The city is where the CT 200h feels most at home. It is exceptionally smooth and quiet at low speeds because it can travel up to 25 mph solely on electric power.
Because the torque is accessible even at a complete stop, driving away from the lights is simple and noiseless. Everything is quite good and is just as the Lexus claims to be a luxury hatchback.
Generally speaking, problems with loud braking noises caused by brake actuator failure have affected all Lexus CT200h versions. Moreover, halogen headlight bulbs and excessive oil consumption are problems with automobiles made between 2011 and 2013.
The same model years are prone to engine misfiring at temperatures below 45°F. Although these issues are not severe, one shouldn’t ignore them, since doing so could force them to later confront difficult obstacles.
With the help of a CT200h maintenance handbook, you can handle repairs that are within your capacity whenever the car runs into a problem. Be sure to take the car to a garage when the problem is extensive.
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