What 51 owners told NHTSA about the 2012 Lexus Ct200h

Brake failure while driving. The brake pedal went soft when pressed and all the associated warning lights illuminated. ABS, traction, control, etc. This is a known issue for Toyota and Lexus, and even after servicing my vehicle at the dealer for the last two years I was never notified that this was a concern.

NHTSA ODI 11654277

My 2011-2013 Lexus CT200h exhibits malfunction indicator lamp illumination for the brake, ABS, and traction control systems, accompanied by diagnostic trouble code C1391. Research indicates this is a known manufacturing defect, and I possess documentation from the customer support program confirming coverage for this issue in vehicles of this model year. However, the Lexus dealership and service advisors refuse to acknowledge this coverage and saying that it is expired. Therefore, I require guidance on how to proceed with resolving this matter.

NHTSA ODI 11645312

A prevalent issue observed in the Lexus CT200h and Toyota Prius V models is the internal leakage of brake accumulators, as they utilize identical part numbers. Consequently, the actuator emits a buzzing sound intermittently as it attempts to maintain the necessary gas pressure within the braking system, ultimately failing due to the leak. Numerous articles addressing this concern are available online, highlighting its significance as a safety issue. Many owners have successfully had Toyota replace the faulty part at no cost, thanks to the extended warranty covering a period of ten years or 150,000 miles, whichever occurs first. This may be attributed to the higher prevalence of Prius vehicles on the road compared to the less common Lexus CT200h. A simple search for "C1391 danger" will yield substantial information on the topic. It is disheartening, in my view and that of many others, that a problem posing a risk to public safety due to brake failure has not been adequately addressed. The sudden onset of this issue significantly reduces stopping distances. When it occurs, warning lights for ABS, traction control, and brakes illuminate simultaneously. Notably, there are no visible brake fluid leaks associated with this actuator. While Toyota provides coverage under the extended warranty, it appears that Lexus may not offer similar support, raising concerns about the safety implications discussed across various platforms.

NHTSA ODI 11630491

The actuator will buzz every few seconds trying to keep pressure in the braking system to a safe operating level of gas pressure to no avail due to this leak in the actuator. After it quits buzzing from shutting the car off, you can hear the air leak hissing the pressure away. There is not much stopping distances when and after this suddenly occurs. In the process, the abs, traction control, brake, a yellow exclamation mark, lights suddenly all come on the dash at once and the brake feels like a sponge very suddenly. The brake booster pump may fail causing a deactivation of the Vehicle Stability Control system and a loss of braking assist. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, Electronic Stability Control Systems."" Deactivation of the vehicle stability control system or a loss of braking assist increases the risk of a crash.

NHTSA ODI 11623648

I, along with many other Lexus CT200H owners have had issues regarding the brakes on the vehicle. I have code: C1391 as reported on a diagnostic tool from Autozone. This has been an issue on my vehicle for months and I’ve read reports of this repair costing upwards to $3000!! Many of us do not have that kind of money to fix a vital function of the vehicle that rely on to keep us safe. If it’s a common and reoccurring issue, I believe it should continue being taken care of by the manufacturer. There was a recall in the past, but it isn’t fair for those who have had this issue after the recall and are responsible to pay this ridiculous amount afterwards!

NHTSA ODI 11620854

A common problem with these Lexus ct200h, as well as Toyota Prius V models, are that the brake accumulators begin to leak internally, as they share the same part numbers. Therefore, the actuator will buzz every few seconds trying to keep pressure in the braking system to a safe operating level of gas pressure to no avail due to this leak in the actuator. After it quits buzzing from shutting the car off, you can hear the air leak hissing the pressure away. There are many articles on this issue online as this is a major safety concern. Many have had Toyota replace the part free of charge as well due to the extended 10 year, or 150k miles, in whichever comes first. warranty. This may be perhaps because there are several more Prius on the road than this rare Lexus CT200h. There are no external brake fluid leaks involved. for this actuator. Toyota covers it under extended warranty, although it appears as though Lexus does not(?), this is a major safety hazard and concern for a heavy amount on several different websites. The trouble code is: C1391. I called Lexus of Austin and was told there are no recalls, after looking up my VIN#. Searching for “c1391 danger” will yield many incidents of this. This is quite a serious issue that needs government interference. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

NHTSA ODI 11600196

I am writing to bring to your attention a serious safety issue that occurred with my vehicle. While driving on the expressway, the engine oil burned and the oil warning light illuminated on the dashboard, posing a significant risk to my safety and the safety of others on the road. Specifically, the engine oil system malfunctioned, causing a sudden and complete loss of engine lubrication. This incident can be verified through an inspection of the vehicle, which is available upon request. My safety and the safety of other motorists were severely compromised due to this malfunction. The sudden failure of the engine oil system could have resulted in a catastrophic engine failure, potentially leading to a loss of control of the vehicle at high speeds. Fortunately, I was able to safely pull over to the side of the road, but the situation could have been much worse. Upon experiencing the issue, I had the vehicle towed to Service Center where the problem was reproduced and confirmed by a certified mechanic. They conducted a thorough inspection and confirmed that the engine oil had indeed burned, leading to the illumination of the oil warning light. The inspection report from the service center is available for review. Additionally, I reported the incident to the vehicle manufacturer and my insurance company. Both entities have documented the issue, and I am awaiting further instructions on how to proceed. There has been no involvement from law enforcement as there was no accident or injury resulting from the incident. Prior to the failure, I did not notice any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms indicating a problem with the engine oil system. The warning light appeared suddenly while I was driving on the expressway, giving me no advance notice of the impending malfunction. Given the severity of this issue, I urge you to investigate this matter thoroughly to prevent any future occurrences. The safety of driver and passengers is of utmost importance.

NHTSA ODI 11596238

the brake booster pump has gone out in the car, ive heard many others say the same thing and its all around the same milage 150k-175k

NHTSA ODI 11579895

Engine has oil use and knocking sound that neither Lexus know what is wrong. A lot of Lexus owners are experiencing the same issues with no resolve. Lexus/Toyota needs to fix the issue with these years models.

NHTSA ODI 11550285

I’ve now had 2 tire sidewalls blow out in 1 month. They are both 215/45/17 sized tires

NHTSA ODI 11544164

The contact's son owns a 2012 Lexus CT200H. The contact stated that while his son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to respond. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact's son veered to the side of the road and parked the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the brake actuator and the brake pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where the same diagnostic result was provided. The dealer related the failure to an unknown independent recall. The vehicle was towed back to the independent mechanic. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the recall had expired; however, they would consider assisting with the repair if the dealer completed the repair. The vehicle was towed to a second dealer, Lexus of Tampa Bay (5852 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33614) and was repaired; however, the manufacturer denied assistance in covering the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 105,297.

NHTSA ODI 11531597

Excessive oil consumption. I purchased the car January 7, 2021 and checked the oil on March 15, 2021 before a long trip and the oil didn't even register on the dipstick. I followed procedure before and up to checking the oil. I checked it when it was delivered and it was at the appropriate level.

NHTSA ODI 11485883

First noticed excessive oil usage. Then, engine rumble. Temperature warning light. Took to repair shop who was unable to repair stating ONLY Lexus has tools required to repair. Lexus will not divulge how to repair. Lexus states a letter was mailed to me (never received) in 2016 for a service issue - warranty enhancement. Thus, they are aware of the issue. Now that I’m having issues with the car (2021), the car is too old and has too many miles, thus, Lexus will not repair free of charge under service issue. I am Scared to drive because of hundreds of on line reports that state car can and make completely stop while driving. Toyota is fully aware of the issue and should be help liable to repair under a recall. Note: I’ve had my car repaired for other issues by Certified Lexus since 2016 and the service centers never mentioned the issue/warranty enhancement - a known issue apparently since 2016.

NHTSA ODI 11461065

i drive my lexus every day for work and home, round trip, 150 miles per day, at 130,000 miles my car started burning 1 quart of oil per month, at 150 miles, now using 2 quarts per month, i now have 195 miles, and using 1 quart of oil per week, this is not normal. after reading forums, many other lexus ct200 owners are having the same issues. this has been reported to lexus dealers and the warranty is only good till 60,000 miles. there's been times when my car has no oil and i need to add 3 quarts, this can cause severe damage to my engine.

NHTSA ODI 11457274

I had the recommended 100,000 mile service done on my car at approx 106,000 miles. At aprox 109,500 miles I checked my oil after noticing my passenger headlight was out and I would be putting a new one in. When I went through the procedure for checking the oil it wasn’t even showing any oil on the dipstick. After reattempting the procedure and checking to make sure I was on level ground still no oil on the dipstick. It took 2 1/2 quarts to get it to the recommended level. I’m at 110,600 today and again the oil was very low registering between 1/8-1/4 Inchon the bottom of the dipstick. There are no oil spots in my two regular spots between my home and my job and my car does not smoke and has never shown a check engine light and has no stored DTC’s. I’m scheduling an oil change this coming week and I will alert the Service Manager about the problem. I purchased the car used in January from Carvana.

NHTSA ODI 11437088

EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. I PURCHASED THE CAR JANUARY 7, 2021 AND CHECKED THE OIL ON MARCH 15, 2021 BEFORE A LONG TRIP AND THE OIL DIDN'T EVEN REGISTER ON THE DIPSTICK. I FOLLOWED PROCEDURE BEFORE AND UP TO CHECKING THE OIL. I CHECKED IT WHEN IT WAS DELIVERED AND IT WAS AT THE APPROPRIATE LEVEL.

NHTSA ODI 11408561

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 LEXUS CT 200H. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE LOW-BEAM HEADLIGHTS TURNED OFF INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CONTINUED DRIVING WITH THE HI-BEAMS ACTIVATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING LOW-BEAM BULBS TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 43,000.

NHTSA ODI 11383686

TOOK MY CAR TO TOYOTA DEALERSHIP. THEY SAID MY CAR IS BURNING OIL. I HAVE NOTICED MY OIL DOES BURN UP QUICKLY, SMELLS LIKE GAS UPON THE DIPSTICK, I HAVE SEEN NO OIL LEAKS. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THEY HAVE SEEN THIS SAME ISSUE WITH OTHER SIMILAR MODELS LIKE IN THE PRIUS. MY CAR ONLY HAS 82,000 MILES. I BABY THIS CAR AND TAKE FOR ALL THE APPROPRIATE MAINTENANCE. THIS IS VERY UPSETTING.

NHTSA ODI 11372732

2012 LEXUS CT200H HAS THE SAME BRAKE BOOSTER, ASSEMBLY ISSUE ALL 3RD GENERATION TOYOTA PRIUS'S HAVE. THE ABS/BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHTS ALL COME IN, AND BRAKE FUNCTIONALITY IS LIMITED. ATTACHED IS A SCAN OF THE ISSUE, I HAVE SINCE CALLED LEXUS AND NOTIFIED THEM OF THE ISSUE.

NHTSA ODI 11365638

I HAD MY HEADLIGHTS REPLACED UNDER A RECALL. ROUGHLY ONE YEAR LATER MY HEADLIGHT IS OUT AGAIN. IT SEEMS THE PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN RESOLVED. THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES ARE VERY EXPENSIVE AND CONTAIN A LOT OF PARTS. I'M NOT SURE WHERE THE PROBLEM LIES, AND THEREFOR I'M NOT SURE WHAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.

NHTSA ODI 11343506

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 LEXUS CT200H. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING OVER BUMPY ROADS OR UNEVEN PAVEMENT, THERE WAS A DELAY BETWEEN WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND WHEN THE BRAKES WOULD ENGAGE, EXTENDING THE BRAKING DISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LINDSAY LEXUS OF ALEXANDRIA (3410 KING ST, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22302, 571-982-7873) HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.

NHTSA ODI 11342395

VEHICLE 2012 LEXUS CT200H 90,800 MILES. THE VEHICLE BURNS OIL VERY RAPIDLY. PERFORMED OIL CONSUMPTION TEST AND WAS 2 QUARTS LOW AFTER 1000 MILES. THERE IS A TSB OUT ON THIS SITUATION WHICH I HAVE ATTACHED. THIS VEHICLE WILL DEFINITELY NOT MAKE IT BETWEEN OIL CHANGES. THIS VEHICLE DOES NOT HAVE ANY OIL INDICATOR LIGHTS ON THE DASH AND THERE IS NO WAY TO KNOW WHEN THE OIL JUST RUNS OUT. VERY SCARY. ALL OF THE VEHICLE RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE WAS PERFORMED AT THE LEXUS DEALERSHIP. A SERVICE HISTORY REPORT IS ATTACHED. IT HAS BEEN CONCLUDED THERE IS A DESIGN FLAW IN THE PISTON AND PISTON RINGS NOT SEALING PROPERLY CAUSING OIL TO BLOW BY INTO THE CYLINDERS. THE OIL CONSUMPTION RATE CAN RAPIDLY INCREASE AND THERE IS NO WAY TO KNOW WHEN IT WILL SUDDENLY JUST RUN OUT OF OIL. IT IS A BIT SCARY TO DRIVE WITHOUT THE OIL INDICATOR GAUGE THAT MOST VEHICLES HAVE. TOYOTA IS REPAIRING CUSTOMERS VEHICLES FOR FREE THROUGH LIMITED SERVICE CAMPAIGN FOR THE 2AZ-FE ENGINES, THE SAME AS IN THE CT200H. LEXUS WILL NOT TAKE OWNERSHIP OF THIS PROBLEM AND ASSIST CUSTOMERS IN GETTING THIS KNOWN PROBLEM FIXED.

NHTSA ODI 11322291

MY CAR ALSO EXPERIENCED A HIGH AMOUNT OF OIL CONSUMPTION. AT FIRST I ASSUMED IT WAS DUE TO MY TRAVELING, BUT WHEN I MONITORED IT WAS MORE THAN NORMAL. ADDITIONALLY, ABOUT A YEAR AGO I WAS TOLD THAT THE CAR WOULD NEED A HEAD GASKET REPLACEMENT. WHEN I SPOKE TO THE DEALERSHIP AND OTHER MECHANICS THEY FOUND THAT TO BE ODD CONCERNING THE REPUTATION OF LEXUS. SO AFTER THE ENGINE STARTED RATTLING, WHICH I'VE NEVER HAD HAPPEN BEFORE AND NOW THE VEHICLE IS INOPERABLE. MANY PEOPLE HAVE TOLD ME TO REACH OUT TO LEXUS BECAUSE WHAT HAPPEN TO MY CAR IS UNHEARD OF, BUT I GOT NO RESOLUTION ANYWHERE.

NHTSA ODI 11302117

SEVERAL CLAIMS OF SHUTTER RESULTING IN LOW POWER WHEN LEAVING A STOP. BECAUSE THE ENGINE TURNS OFF ENTERING EV MODE. IN THE CORSE OF 20 SECONDS THE CAR WITHOUT NOTICE UNTIL TAKING OFF ENTERING ICE ENGINE OPERATION A MASSIVE SHUTTER HAPPENS THAT WHEN LOTS OF FORWARD POWER. THIS IS AN ISSUE WHEN NO ISSUES NOTED WAITING TO CROSS INTERSECTION OR PULLING INTO TRAFFIC WITHOUT WARNING.

NHTSA ODI 11299430

HIGH OIL CONSUMPTION. I HAVE TO ADD A QUART OF OIL EVERY 1000 MILES

NHTSA ODI 11297250