2003 Lexus Es300 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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Common 2003 Lexus Es300 problems
The 2003 Lexus ES300 is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most frequently reported issues is related to the engine, where the engine would sputter, the RPM meter would drop, and the car's performance seems to decrease. This issue can be caused by various factors, including faulty fuel injectors, spark plugs, or coil packs. It is recommended to have the vehicle diagnosed by a professional mechanic with a scanner to identify the root cause accurately.
Another common problem reported by owners is related to the transmission. Some owners have experienced transmission failure, especially in the 1999 model year, with an average repair cost of $3,700 and an average mileage of 104,000 miles when the problem occurs.
The paint job of the 2003 Lexus ES300 is also known to be fragile and susceptible to rock chips and scratches, which can be a problem for owners who prioritize the vehicle's appearance. Additionally, some owners have reported difficulty reading the center console displays of radio/CD and heating/AC settings when wearing polarized sunglasses.
Overall, while the 2003 Lexus ES300 is generally considered to be a high-quality and reliable vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Owners have reported issues related to the engine, transmission, paint job, and center console displays, which can impact the vehicle's performance, appearance, and functionality. It is recommended to have the vehicle regularly serviced and inspected by a professional mechanic to identify and address any potential issues before they become more significant problems.
Is the 2003 Lexus ES 300 a good car?
2003 Lexus ES 300 Review
Comprehensive array of luxury and convenience features, superb ride quality, smooth and silent V6, advanced safety technology, excellent reputation for reliability.
How many miles can a 2003 Lexus ES300 last?
Best Answer. My mechanic says Lexus ES 300 V-6 will last at least till 250,000 miles.
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.
Are Lexus ES300 expensive to repair?
Lexus ES300 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost. The annual maintenance cost of a Lexus ES300 is $424.
2003 Lexus Es300 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Es300 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Lexus Es300 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Lexus Es300
The NHTSA has received 139 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Lexus Es300. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Lexus Es300 vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-28
- VIN: JTHBF30G936
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: UNKNOWN
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBF30G336
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS COMING UP MY STREET LIKE I DO EVERY DAY AND ALL OF A SUDDEN IT STARTED ACCELERATING AND I WAS STUCK STARING WHEEL LOCKED UP AND I HIT A TREE AND GOT SEVERELY INJURED THE CAR IS TOTALED
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBF30G336
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING IN RESIDENTIAL DOING SPEED LIMIT 30. THE CAR STARTED TO EXHILARATE RIGHT BEFORE MY TURN ON THE MY STREET. THE BRAKES WOULDN'T WORK BECAUSE THE CAR JUST KEPT GOING FASTER THE STEARING WHEEL LOCKED UP. I COULDN'T STOP AND RAN START INTO A TREE AND SPUN OUT, RESULTING IN SERIOUS INJURIES *TT *AS
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-24
- VIN: JTHBF30G330
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1) PASSENGER DRIVER SIDE DASH AIR BAG LOOKS AS IF IT IS READY TO BURST. 2) TRANSMISSION OFTEN HAS SLIGHT SLIP WHILE DRIVING. I NOTICE AT CERTAIN GEAR CHANGE WHILE DRIVING AUTOMATIC VEHICLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JTHBF30G730
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: SIR/MADAM, I AM TRYING TO HELP MY FRIENDS (XXXX) AND (XXXXX), LONG TIME RESIDENTS OF HUNTINGTON BEACH AND A VERY SWEET COUPLE. PEGGY WAS DRIVING HER HUSBAND TO A DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENT AND DUE TO A FAULT IN THE ENGINE (THERE IS A RECALL AND THEY WERE NOT INFORMED), THE ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE. IF IT HADN'T BEEN FOR THE DRIVER BEHIND THEM WHO RAN TO THEM AND GOT THEM QUICKLY OUT OF THE CAR AND WALKED THEM TO SAFETY, THE OUTCOME WOULD HAVE BEEN VERY BLEAK. THEY ARE AN ELDERLY COUPLE AND THE HUSBAND, (XXXXX), HAS GREAT DIFFICULTY WALKING AND THE CAR BURNED VERY QUICKLY. THEY, THANK GOD, MADE IT TO SAFETY IN TIME ONLY TO WATCH THEIR CAR BURN. THEY INFORMED TOYOTA AND SINCE THEY ARE ON FIXED INCOME ASKED TOYOTA FOR HELP WITH THE PURCHASE OF ANOTHER USED RELIABLE CAR (THE LEXUS THEY WERE DRIVING WAS 15 YEARS OLD BUT IN GOOD CONDITION AND MORE THAN ENOUGH CAR FOR THEIR TRIPS TO LOCAL STORES OR DOCTOR APPOINTMENTS. SURPRISINGLY, TOYOTA ONLY RESPONDED WITH ONE LETTER FROM CUSTOMER SERVICE. (XXXX)'S FOLLOW UP CALLS AND LETTERS TO CUSTOMER SERVICE, ECO MARK TEMPLIN WERE NEVER ACKNOWLEDGED OR ANSWERED. PLEASE HELP THIS COUPLE BELIEVE IN HUMANITY AGAIN. TOYOTA IS A REPUTABLE COMPANY AND TO HAVE SOMETHING LIKE THIS HAPPEN WITHOUT SO MUCH AS A PHONE CALL FROM THE COMPANY IS SURPRISING TO ALL THAT KNOW OF THIS CASE. I AM ATTACHING ALL THE EVIDENCE: PICTURES, COPIES OF LETTERS FOR YOUR REFERENCE. PLEASE PROVIDE CASE NUMBER. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP. (XXXXX) FOR (XXXXX) PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JTHBF30G730
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS ES300. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, WHEN SHE SAW SMOKE AND FIRE IGNITING FROM THE HOOD. THE CONTACT STATED THE ENGINE FAILED AND TURNED OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT STATED NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE, BUT NO REPORT WAS FILED. THE POLICE WAS CALLED TO THE SCENE BUT NO REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE AND WAS TOWED TO IMPOUND LOT. THE CONTACT CALLED LOCAL DEALER LEXUS USA LOCATED AT 6565 HEADQUARTERS DR, PLANO, TX 75024, (800) 255-3987, AND WHERE NOTIFIED OF FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. *AS *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-01
- VIN: JTHBF30G530
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: VIN: (XXXXXX) YEAR: 2003 MAKE: LEXUS MODEL: ES300 (XXXX) AIR/BAG BUSTING THRU DASH ( * NEED HELP ) (XXXX) YEAR: 2003 MAKE: LEXUS MODEL: ES300 AIRBAG IS BULGING -SEE PICTURES ELECTRICAL DRAIN ON THE BATTERY OFF AND ON SINCE. PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-01
- VIN: JTHBF30G530
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: (XXXX) AIR/BAG BUSTING THRU DASH ( * NEED HELP ) (XXXX) YEAR: 2003 MAKE: LEXUS MODEL: ES3 PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-20
- VIN: JTHBF30GX30
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY DRIVER HEADLIGHT KEEPS SHORTING OUT.I BOUGHT ANOTHER BULB AND SAME PROBLEM .
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-04
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JTHBF30G530
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS ES300. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, SMOKE WAS NOTICED COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO PULL THE VEHICLE OVER AS IT WAS STALLING. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE, LIFTED THE HOOD, AND NOTICED FLAMES COMING FROM THE BATTERY. THE CONTACT CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WHO EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CUT THE BATTERY CORD AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE BATTERY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 156,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-21
- VIN: JTHBF30GX30
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION, IN MOTION IN REVERSE
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-01
- VIN: JTHBF30G030
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: UNWANTED ACCELERATION WHILE APPLYING THE BREAK WHILE SLOWING DOWN THE RPM GAUGE PINS ITSELF TO ABOUT 3000. THE CAR WILL NOT DOWN SHIFT UNTIL IT JOLTS FORWARD JUST A LITTLE AND THE YOU CAN FEEL THE LOWER GEARS ENGAGE. I BOUGHT IT AS A USED VEHICAL ABOUT 3 WEEKS AGO WITH 80,336 MILES . I SEE LOTS OF COMPLAINTS FOR THE SAME THING ON MANY OTHER VEHICALS OF THE SAME MAKE MODEL AND YEAR. I'M ASSUMING IT'S A BAD SPEED SENSOR . WHY IS THIS NOT A RECALL? THIS STARTED HAPPENING AFTER WE TOOK A RIDE ON THE HIGHWAY. AND IT ONLY APPEARS TO HAPPEN WHILE THE CAR IS IN MOTION. SOMETIMES THE CAR WILL NOT ACCELERATE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS APPLIED IT JUST MAKES THE RPMS REV UP, AND THESE DOESN'T GO ANY FASTER KIND OF THE SAME EFFECT YOU WOULD GET IF IT WAS IN NEUTRAL AND APPLIED THE ACCELERATOR.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-07
- VIN: JTHBF30G730
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: NO DESCRIPTION
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-21
- VIN: JTHBF30G135
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I PURCHASED A USED 2003 LEXUS ES30FROM USED CAR DEALER. AFTER A COUPLE DAYS OF DRIVING IT I NOTICED IT WAS SHIFTING GEARS INNORMALLY. IT WOULD SURGE UP TO 4000RMP BEFORE SHIFTING TO 2ND GEAR AND AT ONE POINT WASN'T MOVING WHILE I HIT THE GAS THE ACCELERATION VERY FAST OUT OF NOWHERE. MY MOTHER ALSO HAD THIS SAME YEAR MAKE AND MODEL VEHICLE A FEW YEARS BACK AND IT HAD THE SAME PROBLEM BEFORE THE TRANSMISSION WENT OUT. I DID SOME RESEARCH ONLINE AND FOUND MANY OTHER LEXUS CUSTOMERS EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM. I FOUND A WEB SITE THAT CLAIMED THAT THERE WAS A TSB PUT OUT FOR THIS VEHICLE AND THAT THE LEXUS/TOYOTA DEALERSHIPS WOULD FIX THIS PROBLEM WITH AN UPGRADE. I WAS WONDERING IF THIS UPGRADE IS STILL AVAILABLE AND IF MY VEHICLE WOULD QUALIFY? AND IF SO HOW WOULD I GO ABOUT THIS PROCESS.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-16
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBF30GX30
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS PULLING OUT OF THE GARAGE SLOWLY TO PAUSE ON THE DRIVEWAY TO CLOSE THE GARAGE DOOR AND WHEN I STEP ON THE GAS IN REVERSE THE CAR FLEW OUT OF THE GARAGE AND I COULDN'T STOP IT WITH THE BRAKES. THERE WAS A SMALL ROOFING ACROSS THE STREET WHICH STOPPED THE CAR. NO ONE WAS NEARBY SO NO ONE WAS HURT. THE ACCELERATOR SEEMED STUCK FOR THIS INCIDENT TO HAPPEN. HOWEVER, LEXUS HAD AN INSPECTOR CHECK THE CAR AND DIDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG THAT SHOWED ON THE COMPUTER SO THEY WON'T TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS OCCURRENCE AND THEY CLOSED THE CASE. I TRIED TO SPEAK TO SOMEONE TO SEND THIS TO ARBITRATION BUT NO ONE WOULD SPEAK TO ME. CASE CLOSED. THIS WAS A VERY FRIGHTENING EXPERIENCE WITH NO CONTROL IN THE CAR. *TR
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-18
- Components: TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS ES300. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A BEEPING NOISE. THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE STARTED SHAKING AND THE TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE AN UNKNOWN CODE WAS CLEARED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 97,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-16
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBF30GX30
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: DRIVING OUT OF MY GARAGE USUALLY SLOWLY AND WHEN I PUT MY FOOT ON THE GAS WHILE IN REVERSE TO PULL OUT THE CAR JUST FLEW OUT INTO THE STREET. THE IMMEDIATELY TRIED TO BRAKE AND COULDN'T WORK. WHEN I HIT A TRUCK IN THE STREET BEHIND ME THE CAR FINALLY STOPPED. I HAD NO CONTROL. THIS NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE, A FIRST TIME AND A VERY FRIGHTENING EXPERIENCE. THE CAR IS AT THE LEXUS AUTHORIZED BODY SHOP WAITING FOR THE LEXUS INSPECTOR TO GO OVER THE CAR. I WOULD BE AFRAID TO DRIVE THIS CAR IN THE FUTURE THINKING THIS COULD HAPPEN AGAIN ANYTIME. I'M THE ORIGINAL OWNER AND FELT THIS IS THE BEST CAR I EVER OWNED UNTIL NOW. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-09
- VIN: JTHBF30G136
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: MY CAR OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS STARTED EXPERIENCING ABNORMAL ACCELERATION . THERE WERE TIMES IT USES TO SURGE OR SOUND LIKE IT WAS RAMPING UP TO GO FAST, EVEN WITH MY FOOT ON THE BREAK, YOU COULD HEAR THE ACCELERATION TRYING TO RAMP UP LIKE IF MY FOOT WASN'T ON THE BREAK IT WOULD JUST TAKE OFF. THEN THE OPPOSITE STARTED TO HAPPEN. MY CAR IDLE WOULD JUST DROP AND BASICALLY WHEN I WOULD GO TO TAKE OFF FROM A STOP, THE CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE AT ALL. IT WAS INCONSISTENT SO SOMETIMES IT WOULD OVER ACCELERATE AND SOMETIMES UNDER. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT, BUT I'VE HAD A FEW CLOSE CALLS AND SOME PEOPLE TO GET AGGRAVATED AT MY CAR.I TOOK IT TO THE PEP BOYS THEY THOUGHT IT NEEDED FLUSHED MAYBE INJECTION CLEANING LIKE ALL OTHER SCENARIOS I AM JUST NOW READING ABOUT. AFTER THAT, IT SEEMED TO WORK FOR A SHORT WHILE, BUT THEN THE ISSUE START OCCURRING AGAIN. I HAD MY SPARK PLUGS CHANGED AND NEW COILS , NEW AIR FLOW HOSE TO MAKE SURE THERE WAS NO APPARENT REASON FOR THE ISSUES. THE PROBLEM STILL EXIST SO I TOOK IT TO A LEXUS DEALERSHIP WHERE THEIR SUGGESTION IS THE PROBLEM IS IN THE THROTTLE BOTTLE. IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON LINK WITH THE ACCELERATION ISSUE AND THE SAME SUGGESTIONS ARE MADE FROM THE MECHANICS TO FUEL INJECTION , TO SPARK PLUGS TO SEEMING LIKE TRANSMISSION ISSUE AND ITS THE THROTTLE BODY / PLEASE HAVE LEXUS FIX THESE ISSUES.. THEY ARE EXPENSIVE FOR THE OWNER TO HAVE TO GO THROUGH ALL THE TROUBLE SHOOTING AND RANGE OF . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBF30G030
- Components: STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: I WAS REVERSING AND TRYING TO TURN WHEN MY CAR LEXUS ES 300 SUDDENLY PICKED UP HIGH SPEED ACCELERATION BY IT SELF AND WENT FORWARD AND HIT A FENCE IN FRONT. THE VEHICLE PICKED UP UNINTENTIONAL HIGH SPEED (FULL THROTTLE). IT WAS BEYOND MY CONTROL. MY BODY WENT FORWARD AND BACKWARD VIOLENTLY. FOR FEW DAYS I HAVE EXPERIENCED MUSCLE STIFFNESS, PAIN AND POOR NIGHT SLEEP. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-03
- VIN: JTHBF30G530
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SEAT BELT WILL NOT SNAP INTO BUCKLE. IF I DEPRESS THE RELEASE AND PUSH THE METAL PART IN AT THE SAME TIME IT WILL CATCH AND HOLD. BUT IT WILL NOT GO IN NORMALLY. *JS
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-16
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LEXUS ES300. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED AND THE VEHICLE INCREASED ACCELERATION UNEXPECTEDLY. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO REDUCE SPEED AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE AND A FENCE. THE CONTACT SUFFERED FROM A FRACTURED RIGHT ARM AND SUSTAINED BRUISES TO THE BODY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO A SALVAGE FACILITY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-24
- VIN: JTHBF30GX36
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE FROM CARMAX ABOUT 2.5 MONTHS AGO WITH AN EXTENDED WARRANTY. AFTER DRIVING MY VEHICLE DAILY BACK AND FORTH TO WORK, I NOTICED THE HESITATION WHILE COMING TO COMPLETE STOP OR A TRAFFIC LIGHT. THE RPM WOULD INCREASE WHILE THE TRANSMISSION WOULD HESITATE WHEN I PUSHED THE ACCELERATOR BETWEEN THE SPEEDS OF 10 - 35 MPH. AT FIRST SIGN, IT APPEARED THE TRANSMISSION WAS DEFECTED, SO I DECIDED TO TAKE IT TO CARMAX SERVICE CENTER. TWO DAYS LATER I RECEIVED MY 2003 LEXUS ES300 WITH A CLEAN SLATE (THE SERVICE TECHNICIANS INDICATED THE TRANSMISSION DID NOT INDICATED WEAR) AND I WAS TOLD TO BRING IT BACK IF I STILL HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. I AM TAKING MY VEHICLE TO THE SERVICE CENTER WITH MORE INFORMATION TOMORROW. LEXUS/TOYOTA NEEDS TO EITHER RECALL THESE VEHICLES TO FIX THIS ISSUE OR THEY WILL HAVE A MAJOR LAWSUITS FROM A LOT OF PEOPLE WITH A CLASS ACTION SUITE. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESS FROM LEXUS/TOYOTA REPRESENTATIVES TO KEEP TOYOTA/LEXUS IN GOOD STANDINGS. AFTER READING OTHER COMPLAINTS, I AM REALLY NERVOUS ABOUT DRIVING MY VEHICLE AND I JUST PURCHASED IT. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-17
- VIN: JTHBF30G230
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: AFTER THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN RUNNING FROM A LIGHT OR STOP THERE IS HESITATION WHEN TRYING TO ACCELERATE. I HAVE TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE LEXUS DEALER IN OWINGS MILLS,MD.SEVERAL TIMES.THE FIRST INSTANCE THEY SAID COULD NOT GET THE VEHICLE TO REPEAT IT. I WENT BACK COMPLAINING FOR THE SECOND TIME A WAS TOLD THAT IT COULD BE FUEL INJECTORS CLOGGED FOLLOWED BY ANOTHER LIST OF POTENTIAL SERVICE ITEMS FOR ABOUT $1000+ EXPENSE WHICH WE DENIEDIT SINCE WE HAVE ALWAYS MAINTAINED OUR CAR GOOD & ALWAYSUSE 93OR 89 OCTANE GAS WITH MAINTENANCE SERVICE AS RECOMMENDED. THIS IS MY WIFE'S CAR AND I AM ALWAYS WORRIED ABOUT A POTENTIAL ACCIDENT WITH THIS CAR.LATELY THIS HESITATION FREQUENCY HAS INCREASED FROM WHAT WE HEAR IS THAT WE ARE NOT ALONE AND SEEMS TO BE AN ONGOING PROBLEMS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-02-27
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DRIVERS DOOR WILL NOT UNLOCK. CAN'T OPEN DRIVERS DOOR. HAD TO CLIMB OVER TO PASSENGER SIDE TO GET OUT. NO MANUAL OVER RIDE TO OPEN DOOR. I'M 82 YEARS OLD AND COULD NOT FINE A WAY TO OPEN MY DOOR WITH THE DOOR SWITCH OR THE REMOTE CONTROL. THIS IS A REAL SAFETY CONCERN . *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBF30G930
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: BACKING UP INTO MY DRIVEWAY MAKING TURN TO STRAIGHTEN CAR OUT AND ALL OF SUDDEN THE CAR JUST SPEED UP IN REVERSE. CAUSING CRASH INTO SIDE OF MY HOUSE. AFTER THAT I TRIED TO BACK CAR INTO DRIVEWAY BUT DUE TO DAMAGE WAS UNABLE TO. I PULLED CAR OVER TO STREET PARKING. WHEN I PULLED CAR ONTO STREET THERE WERE NO PROBLEMS. RIGHT AFTER INCIDENT I CHECKED TO SEE IF GAS PEDAL WAS STUCK I DONT BELIEVE IT WAS. I WAS STARTLED AND IN SHOCK. REPORTED INCIDENT TO MY INSURANCE COMPANY. *TR
Negative 2003 Lexus Es300 car reviews
Positive 2003 Lexus Es300 car reviews
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I bought the ES300 with only 36,000 miles on it, even though it was already 6 years old. It was in great condition, having been maintained by a Lexus dealership and driven less than 6,000 miles a year. In the first year of driving it, I put 12,000 miles on it and it has been just as reliable as a brand new car. It's a beautifully built and engineered car that performs smoothly and flawlessly. While I have noticed some slight transmission hiccups, it's hard to determine the exact conditions that cause them and they only happen about every 100 miles or so. The power is more than adequate, although it's not a muscle car by any means. The local Lexus dealer service department advised me that I will need to replace the engine mounts at 60,000K.
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I traded in my beloved 99 Lx470 for a 2003 ES 300 in 2006 with 50,000 miles. Although I never thought I'd go back to a car, the rising gas prices and the amount of miles I drive made me decide to do so. I have now had my car for 24 months and it has been trouble-free. It currently has 121,000 miles on it and still drives perfectly, just like the day I got it. I am very pleased, of course, as I was also very pleased with my LX470 before this vehicle. The gas mileage is great, averaging 23 in town and upper 20s-31 mpg on the highway. I highly recommend it :)
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I'm so happy I chose the ES over the X-Type Jag! While the Jag may have looked nicer on the outside, the Lexus has all the amenities you could want in a luxury sedan. It may not be the best choice for those seeking high performance, but if you're like me and prefer comfort and luxury, the ES is the way to go. Plus, my wife loves it too!
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I recently traded in my 99 Caddy for this 03 ES and I'm really happy with it. However, I did have a bit of trouble getting the car to turn down my street when I got home from work. I had to go around the block a few times.
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I have been the proud owner of a somewhat basic ES300 for a year now and I absolutely love this vehicle. I opted for the leather seats and five CD changer, which is the dealer standard for this area. The fit and finish of this car is superb and my experience with the dealer has been the best I have ever had. I have previously owned cars such as Porsche, Alfa, Camero, Maxima and a few others, but this one is by far the best! Now that the engine is broken in, the power is enough to impress me. Although the Maxima was quicker off the mark, it was not worth the rough edges and reliability issues.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Lexus Es300 problems:
2003 Lexus ES300 Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Top 2003 Lexus ES300 Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Failed Oxygen Sensor Component · Ignition Coil May Fail After 100,000 Miles · Debris in Idle Air ...
Just got a 2003 Lexus ES 300 anything to look out for? : r/cars
Jun 2, 2019 ... The battery was notoriously weak in these and I was also left stranded since the alternator died, which I replaced. The passenger window ...
2003 ES300 transmission problems? Advice? - ClubLexus - Lexus ...
Jan 22, 2015 ... In the 20-40mph range I often notice a delay and then a jerk when the car is shifting gears, especially when downshifting. I see that lexus is ...
Q&A: 2003 Lexus ES300 AC Compressor Replacement & Common ...
Mar 29, 2010 ... My 2003 Lexus ES300 has an airconditioning problem I evacuated the system and then pulled a vacume and then recharged - Answered by a ...
Lexus es300 reliability? Everyone chip in please! (updated with pics ...
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, ...
Other years of Lexus Es300
Are you having problems with your 2003 Lexus Es300?
Saige Ondricka 2024-10-04
This car has a luxurious fit and finish that is beyond reproach. However, I have experienced some issues with the transmission shift, which can be a bit mushy and laggy when attempting to accelerate for passing at highway speeds. It also doesn't seem to select the appropriate gear for optimum performance. While I've recently owned two Mercedes sedans that set a high standard for performance, the ES300 still has its own unique appeal.
Jaylan Williamson 2024-04-20
I really like the car, but I think it would be even better if it had stereo controls on the steering wheel. I've only driven about 100 miles so far, so I'm sure there's more to discover.
Tobin Friesen 2024-03-14
Hi there! We noticed that you've been experiencing some issues with your Lexus. We'd like to help you out with that. Specifically, you mentioned that you've been hearing a rattling sound outside the vehicle during low speed acceleration, experiencing transmission hesitation below 40, and having some trouble with Bridgestone factory tires losing control on wet pavement at 50+. We understand how frustrating that can be, but we're here to assist you in any way we can. Please let us know how we can help!
Danial Morar 2024-01-21
The car came with bad tires and poor alignment, and unfortunately, the turn lamp fell off. It also floats on the road and is low to the ground, making it difficult to get in and out. Additionally, the cruise control is not very good, as it downshifts and charges when going up even the slightest incline. Moreover, it does not return to the set speed on cruise if you come to a stop or slow down significantly, which means you have to reset it every time you hit the brakes. Although I had hoped to like the car, I am disappointed with it. The back seating is cramped for legroom, and the air to the back seat is poor. The windshield is sloped, causing extreme heat to enter the car, and the sun visor has a light switch that should be automatic. Unfortunately, the passenger has to hit the button in the backseat to unlock each door every time if they want to get out.
Humberto Purdy 2024-01-12
When I was looking for my first Lexus, I researched all of the competition, including Mercedes, Jaguar, BMW, Audi, and Volvo. Although I had previously owned a Benz, after reading some reviews on Edmunds, I decided against getting another one. I ultimately chose the Lexus, which is a good car with a spacious interior and great navigation. While I'm still getting used to the exterior styling, I absolutely love the overall space. Although I did experience some squeaks, rattles, and a thumping sound in the trunk during initial acceleration, I found out that the dealer has been receiving this complaint and is working to resolve it. Overall, I find the Lexus to be a reliable car, even if it is a bit vanilla.