1998 Lexus Es problems

General information about Lexus-Es
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

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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Common 1998 Lexus Es problems

The 1998 Lexus ES 300, a luxury sedan, is known for its reliability and durability. However, like any vehicle, it has some common problems that owners have reported.

One of the most frequently reported issues is the illuminating check engine light due to a failed O2 sensor and ignition coil failure. This issue can lead to poor engine performance and decreased fuel efficiency. The O2 sensor, which measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust, can become dirty or fail over time, causing the check engine light to come on. The ignition coil, which provides the spark to ignite the fuel, can also fail, leading to misfires and poor performance.

Another common problem with the 1998 Lexus ES 300 is transmission failure. The most reported problem with the 1999 model year, which is similar to the 1998 model, is transmission failure, with an average repair cost of $3,700 and an average mileage of 104,000 mi. This issue can cause the vehicle to shift roughly or not shift at all, making it difficult or impossible to drive.

There are also reports of sudden unintended acceleration in the 2005 Lexus ES330, which is built on the same platform as the 1998 ES 300. Several owners have reported that their vehicle would accelerate more than it should when they press the accelerator, which can be a serious safety concern.

In addition to these issues, some owners have reported problems with the mass airflow sensor, brake rotors, and air bags. A dirty mass airflow sensor can cause the engine to run poorly, while worn-out brake rotors can lead to decreased braking performance. Bloated air bags can be a safety concern and may need to be replaced.

Overall, while the 1998 Lexus ES 300 is a reliable and durable vehicle, it is not immune to common problems. Owners have reported issues with the O2 sensor, ignition coil, transmission, sudden unintended acceleration, and other components. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues and ensure the vehicle remains reliable and safe to drive.

Is the 1998 Lexus ES300 a good car?

great engine, and great reliability

The 1998 had a really great engine. Some Lexus models can be a bit soft and squishy, but this drove like a real car! And was super reliable. 225k miles and counting.

Are Lexus ES300 reliable?

Super reliable, never had any maintenance issues.

I've owned this Lexus ES300 for 18 years (I'm the original owner). The car currently has 136,000 miles on it. This car is the best car I've ever owned. I take it for its regularly scheduled maintenance and that is really the only thing I do for it.

What engine is in a 1998 Lexus ES300?

3.0 L V61998 Lexus ES / Engine

What is the oldest Lexus ES?

ES 250

Introduced in 1989, the first generation ES 250 was one of two vehicles in Lexus' 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.

1998 Lexus Es complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Lexus Es.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

1998 Lexus Es recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1998 Lexus Es.

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.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1998 Lexus Es problems:

Everything Wrong With My 1998 Lexus ES 300 - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOl5AuyOFQo

Nov 27, 2022 ... Everything Wrong With My 1998 Lexus ES ... 1997 Lexus ES 300 Review - The Early Days Of Lexus Reliability! ... Top 5 Problems Lexus ES300 Sedan 3rd ...

1998 Lexus ES300 Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues

https://repairpal.com/1998-lexus-es300/problems

Problem with your 1998 Lexus ES300? Our list of 9 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Lexus ES300.

Top 5 Problems Lexus ES300 Sedan 3rd Generation 1997-2001 ...

Lexus es300 reliability? Everyone chip in please! (updated with pics ...

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/es-1st-to-4th-gen-1990-2006/552785-lexus-es300-reliability-everyone-chip-in-please-updated-with-pics-of-potential-es.html

Feb 13, 2011 ... ES - 1st to 4th Gen (1990-2006) - Lexus es300 reliability? Everyone chip in please! (updated with pics of potential ES) - Hey guys, ...