Lexus Es problems
The Lexus ES (Japanese: レクサス・ES, Hepburn: Rekusasu ES) is a series of mid-size executive cars marketed since 1989 by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, across multiple generations, each offering V6 engines and a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The first five generations of the ES used the Toyota Camry platform, while the latter generations are more closely related to both the Camry and the Avalon. Manual transmissions were offered until 1993, a lower-displacement inline-four engine became an option in Asian markets in 2010, and a gasoline-electric hybrid version was introduced in 2012. The ES was Lexus's only front-wheel drive vehicle until 1998, when the related RX was introduced, and the sedan occupied the entry-level luxury car segment of the Lexus lineup in North America and other regions until the debut of the IS in 1999. The ES name stands for "Executive Sedan". However, some Lexus importers use the name, "Elegant Sedan".
Introduced in 1989, the first generation ES 250 was one of two vehicles in Lexus's debut range, along with the LS 400. The second generation ES 300 debuted in 1991, followed by the third generation ES 300 in 1996, and the fourth generation ES 300/330 in 2001. The first- through fourth generation sedans shared body styling elements with Japan-market Toyota sedans, and a domestic market equivalent, the Toyota Windom (Japanese: トヨタ・ウィンダム, Toyota Windamu), was sold until the launch of the fifth generation ES in 2006. The word "Windom" is a combination of "win" and the suffix "dom" expresses a state of perpetual victory. The fifth generation ES used body styling marketed by Lexus as L-finesse and debuted in early 2006 as a 2007 model. The sixth generation ES debuted in the first half of 2012 as a 2013 model, and features increased cabin dimensions due to a longer wheelbase which is shared with the full-size XX40 series Avalon.
Lexus has positioned the ES in the comfort luxury segment, with an emphasis on interior amenities, quietness, and ride quality, in contrast with more firm-riding sport sedans. Buyers seeking more performance-focused models are targeted by the Lexus IS and rival makes, with such models offering a sportier drive with differently tuned suspensions. In Europe, Japan and other markets where it was not available until the seventh generation model, the GS sport sedans occupy the mid-size category in the Lexus lineup until it was cancelled August 2020. In the United States, the ES has been the best-selling Lexus sedan for over fifteen years.
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Lexus Es model years
Common Lexus Es problems
The Lexus ES300h, a popular luxury sedan, has its share of common issues reported by owners. While the vehicle is known for its reliability, some problems have been reported across different generations.
One common issue with the first-generation ES300h (2013-2018) is related to the infotainment system. Some owners have reported that the system can be slow to respond, especially when using the navigation system. Others have experienced freezing or crashing, which requires a restart. Additionally, the windshield wipers in this generation have been reported to not work properly or clear the windshield adequately, particularly in heavy rain. Another issue with the first-generation ES300h is related to the hybrid battery system. In some cases, the hybrid battery may fail or not hold a charge, requiring replacement.
Another common problem across different Lexus models, including the ES300h, is oil and water leakage. This issue has been reported in multiple models, including the ES 350 and LS 460. The RX 350, for instance, has been reported to have oil leakage, faulty camshaft timing oil control valves, and A/C issues, particularly in the 2007-2009 models. The ES 350 has been known to have oil leaks, infotainment system issues, melting dashboards, and faulty evaporator core, particularly in the 2007, 2008, and 2011-2015 models. The LS 460 has been reported to have clicking sounds from the brake actuator, failed "Push Start" switch, navigation errors, and blank multi-cluster display screens, particularly in the 2007-2010 models.
Regarding the Lexus ES 330, which is a different model from the ES300h, some owners have reported that the car is not hard to maintain. However, it is recommended to ensure that the car is in good shape, including checking the catalytic converters, legs, sound engine, and transmission. Additionally, it is recommended to use good fluid and buy a scanner for the mechanic. Some owners have reported that the mechanic may not be knowledgeable enough to handle certain issues, and a diagnostic tool may be necessary to identify the problem.
In summary, the Lexus ES300h and other Lexus models have reported common issues, including infotainment system problems, oil and water leakage, and hybrid battery issues. While these issues can be frustrating, regular maintenance and prompt attention to any problems can help ensure the vehicle remains in top condition for years to come.
What are the most common problems with a Lexus ES 350?
Common Lexus ES 350 Problems
- Melting Dashboard. Like other Lexus models from 2007, this model has some issues with the interior plastics, specifically the dashboard. ...
- GPS Failures. ...
- Oil Leaks. ...
- Miscellaneous Engine Problems. ...
- Windows Opening On Their Own. ...
- Defective Evaporator Core. ...
- Blown Cylinder Head.
Is Lexus ES a reliable car?
The 2024 Lexus ES has a predicted reliability score of 85 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
How long do Lexus ES engines last?
between 220,000 and 250,000 miles
The burning question for potential buyers, whether considering a new or used Lexus ES 350, is how many miles this vehicle can go. On average, a Lexus ES 350 can last between 220,000 and 250,000 miles.
What year is the best year for the Lexus ES 350?
The 2010-2012 Lexus ES model years have been the crowning achievement for Toyota's luxury segment, as they're some of the most reliable luxury sedans available in the used car market. Once again, these three model years have received the CR Recommended badge with a perfect reliability score of 5.0 out of 5.0.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Es years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Es cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Es model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Es model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Es years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Es car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Es , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
- Seats problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Es vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Es model years
A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 17 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Es . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Es vehicles.
List of Lexus Es complaints
Lexus Es 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 58ADZ1B14MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Lexus ES350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts unavailable.
Lexus Es 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 58AFZ1B16MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Lexus ES 350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bag) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Lexus Es 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 58ADA1C17MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Lexus ES300H. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Lexus Es 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
- VIN: JTHBK1GG3G2
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Lexus ES350 equipped with General Tires, Tire Line: ReliaTrek, Tire Size: 225/45/R18, DOT Number: VY4FWJ85. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle was vibrating abnormally. The contact pulled over and called Roadside Assistance. The Roadside Assistance technician made the contact aware of a blowout of the driver's side rear tire. The contact was shown that the entire sidewall had detached from the tread. The spare tire was installed by Roadside Assistance. The contact stated that the tires had recently been purchased by the previous owner however, the contact was unsure of the failure mileage on the tires. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or independent mechanic. The failure was not diagnosed nor was the tire replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate vehicle failure mileage was 100,000.
Lexus Es 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-16
- VIN: 58AD11D17MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Lexus ES250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Lexus Es 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-12
- VIN: 58ADZ1B11MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I called into my local dealer to schedule an appointment to have this issue resolved and was told there has been no remedy for this situation as of right now. I have a 12 year old daughter and I am now concerned about her safety.
Lexus Es 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-25
- VIN: JTHBK1GG6G2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Pearl white paint peeling
Lexus Es 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 58ADA1C16MU
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Lexus ES. While the contact's wife was driving at unknown speeds, the messages stating "vehicle notification system, a malfunction in the vehicle notification system has been detected, contact dealer", and "notification system malfunction visit your dealer" were displayed. The contact stated that the steering wheel automatically maneuvered to the left side of the lane and the contact's wife avoided a crash, however, the failure recurred and the contact's wife crashed into the rear bumper of a vehicle with the front bumper of the contact's vehicle. The contact stated that while the wife was depressing the brake pedal, it failed to respond and the contact's wife crashed into the vehicle a second time. No police report was filed. No injuries were sustained. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.
Lexus Es 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-05
- VIN: 58ADZ1B13MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I received a letter that my vehicle is subject to a recall for "passenger airbag may not deploy". I contacted my dealer and they said there is not a remedy at they do not know when the remedy will be available. Possibly not until 3rd quarter of 2024. I asked what if the airbag is needed to deploy while they figure out a remedy, they stated. "We HOPE this does not happen". Offering me nothing but hope that no one dies from their error. It is nice to know that Lexus offers HOPE instead of safety for me and my family.
Lexus Es 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-14
- VIN: 58AFZ1B17MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Lexus ES350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Lexus Es 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-29
- VIN: 58ABK1GGXHU
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The automatic headlights are giving me issues and not wanting to come on and off properly along with the auto high beams
Lexus Es 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-22
- VIN: 58ABK1GG7JU
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: This has occurred since I purchased the vehicle new. Might happen a couple of times per month. If I slightly back off from acceleration just for a split second and then decide that I can proceed, when I go back to accelerating, the engine will have no power for 2-3 seconds and then will finally return to normal function. At the same time for seconds only, a message will appear on the dash stating that the brake and accelerator have been depressed at the same time. This all happens in a matter of seconds. And the brake has never been touched! Dealer repeating tells me that can NOT happen unless i hit the brakes, and that I must get confused with the pedals...REALLY !!! Well it has happened maybe 25-30 times At the same time I have near heart failure wondering if the merging or head on traffic is going to smash into me because my acceleration has failed !!! THIS SURE SOUNDS VERY SIMILAR TO THE EXITING FUEL PUMP RECALL FOR MY VEHICLE MODEL, HOWEVER MY VIN # IS NOT LISTED. If it isn't that, then I guess it would be electronically related. This a serious danger that one doesn't know when it is going to strike next and the dealer understandably can't REPLICATE the acceleration failure. Me and my family needs some safety protection !!! HELP
Lexus Es 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-08
- VIN: 58AD11D16MU
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Power steering malfunction with red steering wheel sign Car doesnot turn either side Power steering low Visit your dealer
Lexus Es 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-07
- VIN: 58ABK1GG1JU
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The Heat Shield on Exhaust becomes loose, rattles and comes off while driving. Danger to to other drives behind me. See the number of complaints over here - https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-3rd-gen-2010-2015/863952-exhaust-heat-shield-loose-and-rattling.html
Lexus Es 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-18
- VIN: JTHBW1GG7G2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Front door locking mechanisms fail over time making it dangerous to open doors and leave it parked in public areas. Door lock actuators failed on both driver and passenger sides.
Latest 5 recalls Lexus Es
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the Lexus Es.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lexus Es 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-21
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Mirai, Lexus LS500, LS500H, 2023-2024 Lexus ES250, ES300H, ES350, 2024 Lexus LC500, and LC500H vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Due to incorrect programming of the parking-assist electronic control unit (ECU) software, the rearview camera image may not immediately display within a couple of seconds after the shifter is placed into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the parking assist ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TA01 and 24LA01.
- Model: Lexus Es 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-21
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Mirai, Lexus LS500, LS500H, 2023-2024 Lexus ES250, ES300H, ES350, 2024 Lexus LC500, and LC500H vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Due to incorrect programming of the parking-assist electronic control unit (ECU) software, the rearview camera image may not immediately display within a couple of seconds after the shifter is placed into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the parking assist ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TA01 and 24LA01.
- Model: Lexus Es 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
- Model: Lexus Es 2019
- Report Received Date: 2019-04-10
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:KNEE BOLSTER
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019 Lexus ES vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a driver knee air bag assembly mounted to the lower instrument panel (IP) that may have been improperly installed, possibly affecting the deployment of the knee air bag in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, there is an increased risk of injury if the knee air bag does not deploy properly.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the driver knee air bag assembly, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 8, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are KLD and KLE.
- Model: Lexus Es 1998
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Latest positive Lexus Es car reviews
Are you having problems with your Lexus Es?
Anastacio Brakus 2024-08-28
Vehicle year: 2024
I gave this car to my wife as a gift. She has been driving Lexus cars since the ES300 in 1995, then the 330 and a 2013 ES 350. We have kept each car for ten years. This edition of the ES350 is a pleasure to drive. The ride is smooth and even, and the technology is easy to understand, even for us older folks. The trim is also beautiful and well-designed. We couldn't be more pleased. My wife test drove a Mercedes Benz E-Class and a BMW, but she preferred the Lexus. It's a great car at a lower price than the Benz.
Ferne Stehr 2024-05-10
Vehicle year: 2024
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying the V6 engine! It really adds some extra zip when you need it. And I completely agree with you about the smooth ride - it's like floating on a cloud. The only downside is that the High Performance tires that Lexus put on don't last very long, only around 15000 miles.