The 2014 Lexus CT 200H is one of the few hatchbacks available in the market that sport a hybrid powertrain under its hoods. It is stylishly designed, highly versatile, and has top-notch fuel economy. It adheres to the brand’s standards of luxury and comfort and though it is limited by its cargo capacity, the vehicle does not forego its functional and utilitarian aura. It benefits from its rich and reliable Japanese heritage and proves to be a dependable option that promises a hassle-free experience. In the current iteration, the vehicle has just 8 complaints and no investigations or recalls listed to its name. It is priced at $32,050 for its only trim and competes with the likes of the Ford C-Max Hybrid and the Toyota Prius. Other options in its ballpark, though gasoline-based, include the Acura TSX Sport Wagon and Mini Cooper Clubman. Can the Lexus CT200H gain ascendancy in a competitive segment? Let’s find out.
2014 Lexus CT 200H User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical Complaints
- Broken head gasket: In the current iteration and even through other models of the current generation, buyers of the Lexus CT 200H have reported the vehicle shuddering excessively and stalling. Where a diagnosis has been conducted, a fractured head gasket has been attributed as the cause of concern. A similar problem has been noted in the Toyota Prius as well, however, there has been no recall for either vehicle despite the complaint recurring excessively. While there are no known symptoms, in one case, a buyer has reported repeated knocking sounds emerging from the vehicle’s front end
- Fuel/Propulsion System: In one listed case, a buyer of the 2014 Lexus CT 200 H has reported the fuel tank of the hatchback cracking without any symptoms. This resulted in the vehicle losing its power and there is no help that the dealership has provided for the failure.
- Failure of brake actuators: On unofficial forums and in one listed case on NHTSA, buyers have reported the brake actuators failing prematurely. As a result, the vehicle’s braking capabilities are reduced and the vehicle takes a longer distance and time to come to a halt than usual. Currently, Lexus has increased the warranty period of the actuators but no other solution has been provided to the buyers.
Electric Complaints
- Faulty door lock actuators: The 2014 Lexus CT 200H electrical problems are concerned with its door lock actuators. In a few listed cases on NHTSA and some on unofficial forums, complainants have reported the door locks failing unexpectedly, which results in the inability of the occupants to open the doors either from the inside or the outside. The only solution available currently is the replacement of the actuators.
2014 Lexus CT 200H Recalls
The 2014 Lexus CT200H has not been recalled yet.
Should you buy the 2014 Lexus CT 200H?
With its updated infotainment system and redesigned fascia, the 2014 Lexus CT 200H carves a niche for itself. It upholds the highest level of frugality, is built with top-notch materials, and cements its position in the market with its high degree of reliability. It manages impressive ratings from J.D. Power and though its safety scores can be a bit underwhelming for some buyers, the soundness of the platform does provide ample reassurance. Even in terms of user experience, the complaints of the current iteration seem restricted. There are no recalls and pending investigations as well, so it is safe to assume that the vehicle will spend more time on the road than it does in the warehouse. So, for us, the CT 200H deserves to be on your priority list. However, if you want a commercially popular option that sports a hybrid powertrain, the 2014 Toyota Prius Hybrid can be a viable alternative.
