Doesn't Lexus stand behind their name?

[Sharonben]

My elderly mother bought a brand new Lexus 350 about 10 years ago. It has only 41k miles on it. The airbag sensor is broken and Lexus no longer makes the part. They told us (in writing) that the vehicle is not safe to drive.  They searched for a part and came up dry. They said I could get it fixed by a 3rd party but when I tried,  nobody will touch it because of liability. Lexus is not willing to fix it with a used part. I would expect Lexus to make this right - provide another vehicle or some sort of compensation, but I was told because the car is no longer under warranty they will not. Really? isn't this Lexus we're talking about? I would expect them to stand behind their name. Perhaps their reputation is not reflective of who they truly are as a company. Has anybody else experienced something like this?

[gbhrps]

Sharonben,

You and Lexus are behind the 8 ball. By law, car manufacturers only have to supply parts for 10 years for any model, and that time has expired. And I'm not at all surprised that they will not install a used part.

You are going to have to find an independent mechanic who will install the needed parts and isn't concerned about the liability aspect of the work, or is willing to have you sign a document releasing him from liability for doing so. The parts will have to come from a wrecking yard. That is your only option, as Lexus is only protecting its reputation by not installing a used part. Its a catch 22 for all involved, but that's not anyone's fault.

Either that, or replace the car (and I know that doesn't make much sense to me either). Good Luck!

[LennyF]

I've had my fair share of issues with Lexus, but I think it's very unreasonable to expect Lexus to fix your mother's 10 year old car.  When does it end after 20,  30....yrs?  Also, the age of the owner should have absolutely no bearing on this issue... Only the age of the vehicle.