Lexus Es250 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 Es250 model years
Common Lexus Es250 problems
The Lexus ES250, produced from 1989 to 2006, is known for its smooth ride and spacious interior. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the Lexus ES250 based on owner complaints:
- Transmission shifting problems: The ES250's four-speed automatic transmission can experience shifting issues, which can be caused by low transmission fluid or a malfunctioning shift solenoid. These problems can result in rough shifting, slipping, or difficulty changing gears.
- Power steering fluid leaks: The ES250's power steering system can develop leaks, which can be caused by a failed power steering pump or hose. These leaks can result in a loss of power steering fluid and difficulty controlling the vehicle.
- Engine oil leaks: The ES250's engine can develop oil leaks, which can be caused by a failing valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket. These leaks can result in a loss of engine oil, which can lead to more serious problems if not addressed promptly.
- Ignition coil failures: The ES250's ignition coils can fail, which can cause misfires and reduced engine performance. These failures can be caused by wear and tear or by faulty components.
- Power steering system issues: Across all model years of the Lexus ES250, there have been reports of power steering system issues, including leaks in the power steering pump or hoses, and a whining or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel. These issues can result in difficulty controlling the vehicle and may require replacement of the power steering pump or hoses.
- Engine issues: Drivers have reported hesitation or stalling while driving, which could be caused by a variety of issues such as a dirty or faulty throttle body, a malfunctioning mass air flow sensor, or a faulty fuel pump or fuel filter. Some drivers have also reported issues with the engine misfiring or running rough, which could be due to a variety of causes including a faulty ignition coil or spark plug.
- Transmission issues: Some drivers have reported problems with shifting, such as the transmission slipping or shifting roughly. These issues could be caused by low transmission fluid, a faulty shift solenoid, or a malfunctioning transmission control module.
- Brake system issues: Some drivers have reported issues with the brakes on the Lexus ES250, including a soft or spongy brake pedal, a brake warning light appearing on the dashboard, or noise or vibration while braking. These issues could be caused by worn brake pads or rotors, a faulty brake master cylinder, or a problem with the brake lines or hoses.
To address these issues, drivers should take their Lexus ES250 to a qualified mechanic who can diagnose and repair the problem. Possible solutions may include replacing the power steering pump or hoses, cleaning or replacing the throttle body, replacing faulty ignition coils or spark plugs, checking and replacing the transmission fluid and shift solenoid, and replacing worn brake pads or rotors.
Are Lexus ES250 reliable?
The ES 250's high level of comfort, roomy interior and low starting price for a midsize luxury sedan will attract many shoppers, all bolstered by Lexus' reputation for reliability. However, its underpowered and loud four-cylinder engine, paired with dull driving dynamics, might send you elsewhere.
Is the Lexus ES250 slow?
2023 Lexus ES 250 AWD Engine Specifications
Moreover, the vehicle can reach a speed of 0-60 mph in just 8.6 seconds. Therefore, not only are you going to enjoy the comfort and convenience that a luxury sedan like the 2023 Lexus ES 250 AWD has to offer, but you will also get to have a thrilling driving experience!
Is the Lexus ES250 underpowered?
And the all-wheel drive system works well in slippery conditions. In terms of fuel economy. During my week with the es i averaged 24 miles per gallon in the city 34 on highway and 27 combined.
Which is better Lexus ES 250 or 350?
ES 350. If you want added power in your Lexus ES but want to enjoy the standard features of the Lexus ES 250 AWD, the Lexus ES 350 is it. You get the features you love about the ES 250 but with additional horsepower from a 302-horsepower V-6 engine.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Es250 years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Es250 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Es250 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Es250 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Es250 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Es250 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Es250 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Visibility problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Structure problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Es250 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Es250 model years
A total of 5 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Es250 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Es250 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 21 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Es250 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Es250 vehicles.
List of Lexus Es250 complaints
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2004-09-30
- VIN: JT8VV22T2M0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE APPLYING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. CONSUMER APPLIED THE BRAKES AND VEHICLE CONTINUED TO SPEED. SHIFTED THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL IN ORDER TO STOP. CONSUMER DROVE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT CRUISE CONTROL ACTUATOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. DEALER NOR MANUFACTURER PRODUCED THIS PART ANYMORE. HOWEVER, PROBLEM RECURRED, AND HAD NOT BEEN RESOLVED. *AK
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-25
- Date Complaint: 2004-06-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT8VV22T9M0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE CONSUMER NOTICED SMOKE WAS COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND GET OUT. THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. *JB THE DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE UNLESS THE CONSUMER PAID FOR IT. THE DEALER HAD RECENTLY DONE WORK ON THE DISTRIBUTOR, TRANSMISSION AND BRAKES. THERE WERE NO BURN MARKS AROUND THE ENGINE. THE FIRE STARTED UNDER THE PASSENGERS DOOR WHERE THE BRAKES WERE LOCATED. THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THE DEALER DID NOT SEAT THE BRAKES PROPERLY AND THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED THE ACCIDENT. *SC *JB
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-12
- Date Complaint: 2004-06-16
- Components: VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: POWER WINDOWS AND LOCKS DO NOT WORK. *AK
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-20
- Date Complaint: 2003-11-25
- Components: VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: ON A VERY SUNNY DAY THE POWER WINDOWS AND DOOR CONTROLS STOP WORKING. WHEN I DRIVE THE CAR FOR 8 TO 10 MILES AND STOP THE CAR AND TRY OPENING THE DOOR AND THEN TRY THE POWER WINDOW IT STARTS TO WORK. IT FEELS THAT AS IF THE HEAT BUILDS UP IN THE CAR ON A HOT DAY AND CONTROLS STOP WORKING BUT WHEN I DRIVE AROUND THE CAR COOLS OFF AND CONTROLS SEEM TO WORK. I DID NOT NOTICE THIS BEHAVIOR IN THE COLD WEATHER. *LA
Lexus Es250 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2002-04-30
- VIN: JT8BF12G0T0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY CAR STARTED SMOKING FROM THE EXHAUST AREA WHEN I STARTED IT EVERY MORNING AND IN THE EVENING AFTER THE CAR SAT FOR A WHILE IN THE OFFICE GARAGE. I TOOK IT TO THE LEXUS DEALERSHIP BECAUSE I THOUGHT IT NEEDED THE 90,000 MILE MAINTENANCE. I TOLD THEM THE CAR WAS SMOKING AND THE ENGINE JUMPED HEAVILY WHEN I STARTED THE CAR. I ALSO TOLD THEM THE CAR MADE A STRANGE NOISE WHEN IT WOULD GO UP HILL, ESPECIALLY EXCELLERATING UP-HILL. THEY CHARGED ME APPROX. $1500.00. I TOOK THE CAR BACK A FEW WEEKS AFTER THE MAINTENANCE AND TOLD THEM THE CAR WAS STILL SMOKING WHEN IT STARTS AND MAKING THE NOISE WHEN IT WENT UP HILL. THEY KEPT IT OVERNIGHT AND GAVE IT BACK TO ME THE NEXT DAY, SAYING THEY DIDN'T SEE SMOKE WHEN THEY STARTED IT. I TOOK IT BACK AGAIN IN FEB 2002 AND ASKED THEM TO LOOK AT IT AGAIN BECAUSE IT SMOKES REALLY BAD. THEY TOLD ME IT HAD SLUDGE IN THE ENGINE AND IT WOULD COST UP TO $14,000.00 TO REPLACE THE ENGINE. THEY ALSO TOLD ME THAT I COULD TRY TO HAVE IT FIXED FOR $2500.00 BUT THE CHANCES WAS ONLY 10% THAT THE PROBLEM WOULD BE FIXED. I SEARCHED THE INTERNET FOR WEEKS TO SEE IF THERE WAS A CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT. I JUST HAPPENED TO SEE THE ARTICLE IN APRIL'S ISSUE OF AUTOMOTIVE NEWS AND THE PROBLEM MENTIONED WAS THE SAME AS WHAT I HAVE EXPERIENCED WITH MY CAR. THE ARTICLE SAYS TOYOTA HAS AGREED TO REPAIR 1997-2002 CARS WITH SLUDGE. MY CAR IS 1996 BUT THE PROBLEM IS THE SAME AS WHAT THE OTHERS HAVE STATED.*AK
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-22
- Date Complaint: 2000-04-21
- VIN: JT8VV22T0M0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: AUTOMATIC LOCKING SYSTEM FAILED TO RELEASE REAR LEFT SIDE DOOR. WOULD TRY MANUALLY & IT STILL FAILED TO RELEASE. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP & WAS INFORMED BY MECHANIC THAT E ENTIRE LOCKING SYSTEM WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2000-01-21
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE KEY DOES NOT LOCK OR UNLOCK DOORS. *CJ
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-13
- Date Complaint: 1996-10-16
- VIN: JT8VV22T0M0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INTERMITTENT STALLING.
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 1994-07-01
- Date Complaint: 1996-08-08
- VIN: JT8VV22T0M0
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLES HAS HAIR LINE FRACTURE IN CV JOINT AND RIGHT FRONT AXLE.*AK
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-02
- Date Complaint: 1996-01-04
- VIN: JT8VV22T6M0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TRUNK GAS CYLINDER BROKE AND FELL ON CUSTOMER HEAD CAUSING HEAD INJURIES. TT
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-01
- Date Complaint: 1996-01-04
- VIN: JT8VV22T6M0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SUPPORT RODS OF TRUNK LID FELL DOWN ONTO PASSENGER'S NECK WHEN RETRIEVING GROCERIES. *SD
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-17
- Date Complaint: 1995-12-01
- VIN: JT8VV22T7M0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING CAR ACCELERATES AND CUT OFF . TT
Lexus Es250 1995
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-30
- Date Complaint: 1995-11-07
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DEER IMPACT LEFT FRONT QUARTER PANEL W/AIR BAG NOT DEPLOYING. DRIVER MADE CONTACT WITH STEERING WHEEL. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-07
- Date Complaint: 1995-08-07
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL LEAK IN SPARK PLUG WELLS.
Lexus Es250 1991
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-07
- Date Complaint: 1995-08-07
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL LEAK IN SPARK PLUG WELLS.
Recalls Lexus Es250
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Lexus Es250.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lexus Es250 1990
- Report Received Date: 2010-02-11
- Manufacturer: RIDE CONTROL, LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
- Consequence: THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
- Model: Lexus Es250 1991
- Report Received Date: 2010-02-11
- Manufacturer: RIDE CONTROL, LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
- Consequence: THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
Latest positive Lexus Es250 car reviews
Are you having problems with your Lexus Es250?
Wyatt Satterfield 2024-11-22
Vehicle year: 1990
This is a very comfortable and reliable car that handles the road well. It has just enough room on the inside and is a pleasure to drive. While general maintenance can be expensive, there have been no unexpected breakdowns.
Stan Larson 2024-10-25
Vehicle year: 1991
You have made an excellent choice with this car! It has been owned its whole life and has had no major problems until its 14th year when the radiator and power steering hoses were replaced. The comfort of a Lexus is second to none and the drive is still nice even though the car is going on 16 (although the ride is a little rougher in the Minnesota winter). It is worth noting that repair costs for a Lexus of this age (or any age) are not cheap. However, my family is dedicated to the Lexus/Toyota name and will buy no other vehicles as this car has been so incredibly reliable for so long.
Douglas Kihn 2024-10-16
Vehicle year: 1990
You have made an excellent choice with this car! It has been owned its whole life and has had no major problems until its 14th year when the radiator and power steering hoses were replaced. The comfort of a Lexus is second to none and the drive is still nice even though the car is going on 16 (although the ride is a little rougher in the Minnesota winter). It is worth noting that repair costs for a Lexus of this age (or any age) are not cheap. However, my family is dedicated to the Lexus/Toyota name and will buy no other vehicles as this car has been so incredibly reliable for so long.
Garfield Lindgren 2024-10-09
Vehicle year: 1991
I love this car since it debuted. I previously owned a 1990 ES 250 (2000-2003) until it was totaled in an accident, which I walked away from. Since then, I have owned 2 Volvos 960s. When I saw another ES 250 sitting on a lot, even with 145,800 miles on it, I had to have it. It is very luxurious with leather and wood, and being a Lexus, it will last for at least another 10 years and 100,000 miles. I plan to keep it forever.
Morris Koepp 2024-09-15
Vehicle year: 2023
Comfortable, excellent interior build quality, and exceptional tech and features. The smaller non-turbo option is perfect for my wife, with excellent mpg on regular gas! The car has great handling and is fun to drive. I purchased the sport wheel/tire option with spoiler and sunroof. The engine can be a bit throaty when pushed, but the great mileage without hybrid or electric is a fine alternative!