Lexus Es300h 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 Es300h model years
Common Lexus Es300h problems
The Lexus ES300h is a hybrid electric vehicle known for its comfort, reliability, and fuel efficiency. However, like any vehicle, it can have certain issues that owners have reported. Here are some of the most common problems with the Lexus ES300h based on complaints from owners:
- Door not working properly: The most reported problem with the 2014 Lexus ES300h is the door not working properly. This issue can include the door not opening, closing, or latching correctly. It can also involve the door handle or window controls malfunctioning. The average cost to fix this problem is $2,000, with an average mileage of 12,000 miles.
- Melting dashboard: The 2007 Lexus ES350, which shares some components with the ES300h, has a common problem with the interior plastics, specifically the dashboard. The plastic on the dash can melt in the sun, causing a cosmetic issue and potentially interfering with the function of dashboard airbags and cabin electronics. This problem can also release dangerous VOCs that might cause other problems.
- GPS failures: The Lexus ES300h has some reports of GPS failures, especially in the earlier models. The GPS had a few issues in the early releases, but more recent models have less of a problem with the system.
- Oil leaks: The Lexus ES300h also has some reports of excessive or sudden oil leaks, especially in the earlier models. More recent models don't seem to have as many problems, but oil leaks and oil consumption are some of the issues with the ES300h's engine.
- Miscellaneous engine problems: The ES300h model years have various other engine issues, including gasket and seal problems, ticking and knocking sounds, and other signs that something is wrong with the engine internally. These problems range in causes and severity, some not making a big difference to consumers, while others require immediate and costly repairs.
- Infotainment system issues: Owners of the 2017 Lexus ES300h have reported issues with the infotainment system, including problems with audio, GPS, phone, rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display, squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.
- Suspension and steering problems: Some owners have reported issues with the suspension and steering components, such as shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage, power steering, wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.
- Electrical issues: Owners have reported various electrical issues, including problems with the alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start, cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.
It is essential to note that these problems are not necessarily common to all Lexus ES300h vehicles and that many owners have reported no significant issues with their cars. Additionally, some of these problems may have been resolved in more recent model years. If you are considering purchasing a Lexus ES300h, it is recommended to research the specific model year and check for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to the issues mentioned above.
Is the Lexus ES 300h reliable?
Lexus ES 300h reliability & problems
Just under 10% of owners reported a fault with their Lexus in the first year, which is around half as many as Volvo and Mercedes customers. The brand topped the survey for several years, but slipped to 10th place overall in 2021.
What is the best year of Lexus ES 300h?
The Best Model Years to Buy a Lexus ES 300h
With the 2019, you would only pay, on average, 67% of the price as new, with 75% of the vehicle's useful life remaining. The 2022 and 2018 model years are also attractive years for the ES 300h, and provide a relatively good value.
How long does a Lexus 300h hybrid battery last?
But generally, a Lexus hybrid battery can be expected to last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles. The good news is, the typical Lexus hybrid comes accompanied by a hybrid battery warranty that is good for 10 years or 150,000 miles.
How much does it cost to replace the hybrid battery in a Lexus ES 300h?
between $5,155 and $5,224
The average cost for a Lexus ES300h Hybrid High Voltage Battery Replacement is between $5,155 and $5,224. Labor costs are estimated between $264 and $333 while parts are typically priced around $4,891.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Es300h years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Es300h cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lexus Es300h model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Es300h model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Es300h years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Es300h car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Es300h , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Es300h vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Es300h model years
A total of 15 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 injuries by Es300h model years
There were a total of 7 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 71 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Es300h . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Es300h vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-07
- VIN: JTHBW1GG0D2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: While driving on the highway electronic brake boost suddenly failed, leading to brake malfunction. This is common malfunction of this model. This leads to potentially hazardous situation when in emergency or even regular traffic breaking car would not break as expected.
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-22
- VIN: JTHBK1GGXD2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Roughly 6-12 months ago the dashboard on my Lexus started to melt and become sticky, creating a glare on my windshield and impeding my ability to see the road causing dangerous situations. Both daytime and nighttime driving have been affected by this defect. I’ve contacted the local dealership, but they confirmed that no recalls are available and that the only solution is for me to replace the entire dash.
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-04
- VIN: JTHBW1GG5D2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 2013 Lexus Es300h driving on [XXX] , I felt the brake didn't work during the street. It's hard to push the brake, and I almost hit the car in front. OMG, I was very scared. I saw an ABS brake light, and I tried to turn into a parking lot and find the nearest Pepboys in Birmingham, Alabama to inspect the system. I was informed of a problem with the Brake Booster Assembly. I’m sorry I can’t afford to pay the labor, service and parts at this time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-16
- VIN: JTHBW1GG5D2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I was driving down the highway coming up on a traffic jam put on the brakes and several warning. Lights came on the dash and my power brakes failed. I was barely able to stop the car without hitting someone. From that point forward the brakes did not work properly, the regenerative braking system did not function. also, the cruise control stopped functioning. I took the car to the Lexus dealer, they tested the car and stated it need a new brake booster brake assembly and that there was a safety warranty issue that was extended out 10 years and up to 150,000 miles and although my car only had 79,000 miles on it was three months past the warranty date and the refused. They reset the car brakes apparently and I was able to drive the car for several days while I spoke with Lexus, and then the car brakes failed again.
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-28
- VIN: JTHBK1GG8D2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: On my 2013 Lexus ES 350, three out of the four doors do not function properly and will not lock or lock with the key fob. my driver’s side front door, my driver’s side rear door, and my passenger’s side front door does not work. The doors also will not lock or unlock with the interior lock/unlock button. When the all the doors are locked, I must go to the passenger’s rear door to unlock the driver’s side front door with my cane. The manual door lock from the key fob does not work and will break if I continue turning it. The door locks will not automatically lock when the car goes in motion. These are safety issues trying to get a child or pet out of the car in case of an emergency such as a fire, an accident, or robbery. The power locks are extremely helpful for me. I am a combat disabled veteran who runs the risk of reinjuring myself using the only door that works attempting to open the door with my cane. I have had some of these power locks replaced before. Lexus says this is a mechanical issue associated with the actuators rather than a safety issue. I really believe this is a serious safety and security issue rather than a mechanical issue.
Lexus Es300h 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-05
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-15
- VIN: JTHBW1GG8F2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I had new brakes put on my car and a few months later, while I was driving, the brakes completely stopped working. There was no warning and I ended up going through a red light because I couldn't stop. I was lucky to be in a residential area where I could pull over to the side and be towed to the brake shop. They checked it out, and said there was a code that showed a Lexus issue. We took it to the Lexus service at Woodland Hills Lexus. They drove it and nothing happened, but finally with a lot of nagging on my part, they did a diagnostic (charging me $486.74 for this) and found a problem. Based on what my service person told me, there was a letter sent out to Lexus dealerships saying this was a problem, but they weren't doing a recall. How can they be allowed to ignore a brake problem ? I would like to buy another Lexus (I have already had 3), but I am concerned they are not forthcoming about safety issues. I have emailed their headquarters regarding this, but have not heard back.
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-16
- VIN: JTHBW1GG3D2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Hood latch and cable malfunction in that the hood wouldn't close and warning light and buzzer continuously beeped. Woburn Toyota in Woburn, MA said it was due to overuse and not a defect and not a safety issue! Not so. Hood not opened more than other vehicles I have had without such a problem. Other Lexus owners have posted similar complaints, too.
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-11
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-11
- VIN: JTHBK1GGXD2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I entered the VIN and found that my car airbag was an unrepaired recall.
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-11
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-12
- VIN: JTHBW1GG1D2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The moonroof suddenly shattered (it sounded like an explosion) while I was driving on the freeway in 70 degree weather. Initially I had no idea what it was but realized subsequently that I was shedding glass shards behind me. There were no overpasses where someone could have dropped something, I did not see a rock or other projectile, and - when I parked the car - I found nothing that from outside seemed to have struck it and/or stayed behind in the cavity.
Lexus Es300h 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-10
- VIN: JTHBW1GGXG2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The vehicle started experiencing the vaccum leak in the master brake cylinder/actuator/booster where the booster pump would run continually every 15 seconds causing the danger to brake failure. Dealer was contacted but refused to help. Eventhough toyota prius hybrids and newer and some other toyota that share the same design brake booster and master cylinder has been recalled previously. It is common failing component but dealer does not provide any assistance leaving vehicle owners pay thousands to replace abs brake components and bleed the system. Need your help!
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-04
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-18
- VIN: JTHBK1GG9D2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The automatic door locks have stopped working. I have had to replace 3 out of the 4 door lock actuators in the car. When they go out I am unable to use the door lock sensors and have to manually lock my doors. It also affects my ability to use the key fob remote to lock and unlock my door. I replaced 2 in 2018 and 1 in 2021
Lexus Es300h 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-15
- Date Complaint: 2021-02-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBW1GG6G2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I ATTEMPTED EMERGENCY BRAKING ON ELEVATED HIGHWAY DURING SNOWY CONDITIONS. SPEED WAS APPROXIMATELY 40-45 MPH. PRESSED FIRMLY ON BRAKE PEDAL AND NOTHING. NOTHING. BEGAN PUMPING ON BRAKES AND STILL NOTHING. STEERED CAR AWAY FROM BRAKING VEHICLES IN FRONT OF ME AND VEERED CAR INTO MEDIAN WALL TO AVOID REAR END COLLISION. . SEVERE DAMAGE TO CAR, BUT NO AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT AND AVOIDED HITTING ANY OTHER CARS. I'VE HAD ABS ON MULTIPLE TOYOTA AND LEXUS VEHICLES IN THE PAST, I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED ANYTHING LIKE THIS. THERE WAS NO BRAKING. I HAVE PICTURES OF THE CAR, BUT THE DAMAGE WAS DUE TO HITTING THE INTERIOR HIGHWAY WALL. THIS IS A CERTIFIED LEXUS VEHICLE THAT I PURCHASED JUST OVER ONE YEAR AGO (12/31/19). I JUST HAD MY SECOND SIX MONTH CHECK UP COVERED BY LEXUS UNDER WARRANTY. MILEAGE IS APPROXIMATELY 36K MILES.
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2021-01-19
- VIN: JTHBK1GG9D2
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: ENGINE STALLS WHEN TURNING LEFT REDUCING POWER STEERING BOOST UNTIL DRIVER LIFTS FOOT FROM GAS PEDAL AND REPUSHES TO REGAIN POWER STEERING BOOST ON CITY STREETS AT LOW SPEED FROM STOPPED POSITION.
Lexus Es300h 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-25
- Date Complaint: 2020-12-27
- VIN: JTHBW1GG1H2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN STARTING VEHICLE THAT WAS STATIONARY AND DEPRESSED BREAKS TO SHIFT CAR FROM PARK INTO REVERSE. THE CAR STAYED IN NEUTRAL AND JUST ROLLED AS IF NO GEAR ENGAGED. THE ERROR ON THE SCREEN READ: 'TO START VEHICLE, PUT SHIFT LEVER INTO P'
Lexus Es300h 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-10-01
- VIN: JTHBK1GG3D2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE PCS (PRE COLLISION SYSTEM) WARNING ICON FLASHED IN THE DISPLAY INDICATING THAT THE PCS WAS TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN ON A HIGHWAY. PULLED OVER TO LOOK IN THE OWNERS MANUAL ONLY TO FIND THAT THE MANUAL TOLD ME TO STOP. WE PROCEEDED TO RETURN HOME WITHOUT EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE HANDLING. I REALLY DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE CAR NOT KNOWING IF THE PCS SYSTEM WILL FAIL.
Recalls Lexus Es300h
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Lexus Es300h.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lexus Es300h 2019
- Report Received Date: 2019-07-24
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019 Lexus LS500, LC500, ES300h, UX250h, LS500h, Toyota Prius, RAV4 HV, 2019-2020 Toyota Prius Prime, and 2020 Corolla HV vehicles. The brake booster pump may fail causing a deactivation of the Vehicle Stability Control system and a loss of braking assist. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
- Consequence: Deactivation of the vehicle stability control system or a loss of braking assist increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the brake booster pump, free of charge. The recall began September 20, 2019. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 and Lexus owners may contact Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are K1L/K0L. Lexus' numbers for this recall are K2F/KLF.
- Model: Lexus Es300h 2013
- Report Received Date: 2015-11-03
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: CRASH IMMINENT BRAKING
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Avalon and Avalon Hybrid vehicles manufactured October 19, 2012 to October 27, 2015 and 2013-2015 Lexus ES350 and ES300h vehicles manufactured June 18, 2012 to July 6, 2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with a Pre-Collision System (PCS) as optional equipment. In these vehicles, the PCS may unexpectedly activate and apply the brakes when the radar detects a steel joint or plate in the roadway as an object.
- Consequence: A vehicle that unexpectedly brakes increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain PCS components, free of charge. The recall began on July 28, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this campaign are F1V and F2E.
- Model: Lexus Es300h 2014
- Report Received Date: 2015-11-03
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: CRASH IMMINENT BRAKING
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Avalon and Avalon Hybrid vehicles manufactured October 19, 2012 to October 27, 2015 and 2013-2015 Lexus ES350 and ES300h vehicles manufactured June 18, 2012 to July 6, 2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with a Pre-Collision System (PCS) as optional equipment. In these vehicles, the PCS may unexpectedly activate and apply the brakes when the radar detects a steel joint or plate in the roadway as an object.
- Consequence: A vehicle that unexpectedly brakes increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain PCS components, free of charge. The recall began on July 28, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this campaign are F1V and F2E.
- Model: Lexus Es300h 2015
- Report Received Date: 2015-11-03
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: CRASH IMMINENT BRAKING
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Avalon and Avalon Hybrid vehicles manufactured October 19, 2012 to October 27, 2015 and 2013-2015 Lexus ES350 and ES300h vehicles manufactured June 18, 2012 to July 6, 2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with a Pre-Collision System (PCS) as optional equipment. In these vehicles, the PCS may unexpectedly activate and apply the brakes when the radar detects a steel joint or plate in the roadway as an object.
- Consequence: A vehicle that unexpectedly brakes increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain PCS components, free of charge. The recall began on July 28, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this campaign are F1V and F2E.
Latest negative Lexus Es300h car reviews
Latest positive Lexus Es300h car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
You'll love this car! It runs smoothly and quietly, and has great gas mileage.
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Vehicle year: 2017
Patience has paid off: This car has every option package you were wanting and has been exceptionally well-cared for by the first owner!
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Vehicle year: 2019
In October 2019, I leased a 2019 ES 300h and it has been a great car! With only 13,000 miles on it, I have driven it both in the city and on the freeway. Compared to my previous 2017 ES 350, the 2019 model is a huge improvement. The ride is solid and firm, with better road grip and cornering. The acceleration is quick and there is no lag. The dynamic cruise control is a great feature, even able to bring the car to a complete stop. The gas tank is also improved, filling up completely without stopping 2 gallons short. The shifter and door handles have a solid and smooth feel. Passengers have given many unsolicited compliments, including my picky son who has my old 2016 Toyota Camry. I have owned many cars in the past, including a 1997 Lexus LS400 and a 2004 Jaguar XJ sedan, but the 2019 ES 300h is the best car I have ever owned. The ride is described as 'buttery' by Exhaust Sports Auto in their 2020 ES 300h review. As of January 2024, with 36,000 miles on the car, it is still excellent and low maintenance. I get high 30's MPG in the city (without using Eco drive) and up to 44 MPG on the highway. The adaptive cruise control and lane adjust make for a relaxed driving experience. The tires are good for another 10,000-15,000 miles. I appreciate the infrequent gas station visits and quick fill ups. The car has plenty of trunk space for shopping and trips. I am definitely keeping this car and plan to buy it after my lease expires in April!
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Vehicle year: 2014
The 2013 ES by Lexus has been redesigned to handle better, and they have done an excellent job. I had always believed that only my 2006 BMW 5-Series had the perfect combination of competent handling and ride quality, and up until 2010, that was true. However, other cars have caught up, and this Lexus is one of them. Even when pushed well past my usual driving limits, the 2013 ES has proven to be just as good as the legendary Bimmer. It also rides much better and is quieter too. I am thoroughly enjoying every minute behind the wheel of this car, and it is the only car that could have convinced me to switch from my Bimmer, even after trying many others, including Infiniti and Mercedes. I never thought any Japanese car could ever do that. The ES hybrid provides all the power I need, and it has the potential to get over 40 mpg in non-highway driving, something no gas-fired BMW could ever do. The interior is absolutely gorgeous and a feast for the eyes, and even the exterior styling is contemporary, better than on their newer versions, in my humble opinion. The heated and cooled seats are supportive and comfortable, and even the ‘base’ radio is better than most others. And, of course, the biggest bonus and a prime determinant in me switching brands is getting legendary reliability and low operating costs that Toyota is known for, something that BMW will NEVER be able to claim. I was fortunate enough to find a seven-year-old Lexus certified used car with only 19k miles that almost can’t be told from new, so I’m finally feeling really good about my ride, not having to worry about what the next expensive thing will be to fail on my used BMW. Some have complained about the mouse-pad-like controller for the NAV/Audio system, and initially, I thought they had a point. But now I’m over it; it’s a simple learning curve, folks, and not that hard to learn.It's different, but not worse than anything else. I really appreciate not having to reach up to touch a screen or buttons that my eyes will have to search for, and then still have to also look at the screen. This car handles and rides great and can be driven like a 'normal' car, but gets 50% better mpg. According to the car's calculations, I've already gotten over 42 mpg in mixed driving, although I don't know yet how accurate that is. And no, it won't equal the fossil fuel frugality of a pure electric, but it also never needs to be charged for hours either; just gas it up like you would any other car, only get up to 40 mpg. Its only blemish might be that it has less trunk space than its gas-engine twin because of the hybrid battery pack, but other than that, it might be the ideal mid-sized luxury car. This car lets you have your cake and eat it too. I'll update this later with accurate mpg figures and more real-world driving experience. Update on 6/25/2020: Non-highway mpg is around 34, almost twice what the Bimmer got. It would improve if I drove in 'ECO' mode, but I like the response better in 'normal'. The response in 'Sport' is significantly better still, but also achieves significantly less mpg (like 26). Other than that, I remain completely satisfied with this car and am still excited about owning it and driving it. I might not have felt this way with an earlier (than 2013) Lexus model, but this one has converted this former BMW driver. I will note that one must be careful leaving intersections when it's raining; the immediate torque from the electric motor assist will spin the tires easily from a stop. That's where AWD would make this the perfect car! Update on 12/29/2020: I replaced the Lexus in late August with a newer 2017 Infiniti QX50 compact SUV.We recently got rid of our third car, a Mercury Mountaineer with AWD. For twenty years, we enjoyed the confidence of each having an AWD car during winter. I was concerned about trying to make it through the occasional snow-covered road in a hybrid car with a torquey electric motor spinning its tires. The Infiniti is a great all-around car, which I will review separately. If we had kept a third AWD vehicle, or if the Lexus had been AWD, I would have kept it for another ten to fifteen years. The Infiniti should be decent regarding operating costs, way better than any BMW, but I don’t think it will match a Toyota product. Just this model year, Lexus has finally introduced an AWD ES350 sedan (but not yet the hybrid sedan). That might be enough to entice me to switch back in a couple more years when I can look for a certified used one. While I love the performance, utility, and handling of my Infiniti, I wish I had kept the Lexus hybrid. The Infiniti non-highway mpg is about exactly half of what the Lexus got. That said, the utility is way better than the Lexus, which didn’t even have fold-down rear seats. And of course, there is no contest regarding performance; the Infiniti can probably tow the Lexus down the road faster than it could go on its own power. Given the eco-unfriendly near-term costs of manufacturing the LiO2 batteries (and really, an entire new car), it probably doesn’t help the planet for me to switch back. Still, the Lexus was a great car, and I miss seeing 52 mpg on its computer, which I saw frequently on the highway. We are still keeping the Infiniti, and I am looking for a hybrid SUV, but supplies are limited and prices are high.Since I'm retired and driving less, I'll probably stick with my Infiniti. It's a rare 'fully loaded' model with lots of high-tech features that I love. Even with gas prices returning to normal, I'm still not motivated to replace it with a hybrid. It's simply the best all-around vehicle I've ever owned. It scratches my occasional 'enthusiast-motoring' itch with sharp handling and hair-raising acceleration, while also providing a comfortable and luxurious ride under all other conditions. However, I have to admit that Dodge's upcoming high-performing 'Hornet' hybrid in a hatchback format with foldable seats and AWD has caught my attention. It may lack the luxury trimmings of the Infiniti and some safety features (unless I buy the highest trim level), so it might not be the totally compelling package I seek... but we'll see! It's clear that manufacturers are addressing buyers like me as more electric and hybrid models are being developed, so it's inevitable that my current Infiniti's days are numbered. I have the Lexus ES300h to thank for starting me along this pathway!
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Vehicle year: 2019
Learning all the tech, including attempting cell phone communications with various functions, may seem difficult at first. However, this is a fine car with more than expected power, boasting excellent acceleration and handling.
Are you having problems with your Lexus Es300h?
Conor DuBuque 2024-11-24
Vehicle year: 2015
The fuel efficiency is significantly lower than expected, with only 26 mpg achieved under normal driving conditions, split evenly between highway and city driving. Despite maintaining a reasonable speed of 65 mph and utilizing eco mode, the results were disappointing. This falls short of the expected standards and requires further attention.
Jerald Paucek 2024-11-21
Vehicle year: 2013
I understand that this may be hard to believe, but I have had a difficult experience with Lexus USA customer service. I had to do all the follow-up myself. While the car itself is fine, I have had a negative experience with the optional Mark Levinson sound system. I would not recommend purchasing this option. I have tried to be reasonable with the customer care representatives, but unfortunately, they do not seem to care. If something is not done about the sound system, this will be the last Lexus I purchase.
Nicholas Leuschke 2024-11-18
Vehicle year: 2022
I purchased this car about 3 months ago and have driven it for around 5k miles. While the gas mileage is averaging at 41MPG, which is not far from the published range, I must admit that I am quite disappointed with this vehicle for several reasons. One of the primary reasons I bought this car was for its known comfort in ride and low overall noise level. However, I am not sure if it is due to the Bridgestone tires it came with, but it is not as comfortable as I expected. You can feel all the imperfections on the road, and it does not feel as planted and solid as I would like. Additionally, the noise level from the tires and wind is noticeably worse than my previous Nissan Altima. Compared to my other Mercedes GLE, this car feels very light and tinny. While I am currently stuck with this set of tires, I am not sure if a different set of tires will dramatically improve this issue. I should have looked more into other brands of cars, but I guess I trusted the reputation that Lexus carries. If you are looking for a quiet, solid, and comfortable luxury vehicle (not a real one, but good enough), this car may not deliver. However, I hope that at least this car stays trouble-free.
Ansley Leannon 2024-11-14
Vehicle year: 2015
I purchased my LEXUS ES300H in December 2014. According to the value paper, it was supposed to have a mileage of 39 in the city and 40 on the highway, and it was recommended to use regular gas. However, since I bought the car, I have never been able to achieve this level of mileage. I am not sure how they are claiming that the ES300H can achieve such high mileage. I usually get around 34-35 miles per gallon, which is a 13.26% variation. The car should be giving me more mileage than it is currently showing. In August of this year, I had an incident where I was backing up the car from my driveway and the car was parked on the other side of the road. Although the back-up camera was on, the blind spot monitor was not working and did not beep. When I got out of the car to check, I noticed damage on my bumper. Long story short, I contacted LEXUS and they asked me to take the car to the dealer. They checked my car and said that due to the impact on the bumper, the blind spot monitor was not working. They did not take the bumper off to look at it. If this car has a blind spot monitor that breaks down by simply touching another car, then it does not belong on the road. It should look good in the showroom.
Ervin Marks 2024-11-14
Vehicle year: 2019
The mouse pad is not suitable for use while driving and lacks sufficient controls on the wheel. It also lacks touch controls. However, it is still a technically sound product.