2018 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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Common 2018 Lexus Es300h problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2018 Lexus ES 300h, common problems include issues with the power windows, excessive oil consumption, and windshield wiper motor failures.
- Power Windows Issues:
- Owners have reported issues with the power windows, particularly showing up around 60,000 miles. The window regulators and motors tend to wear out quickly compared to other cars. Replacing the regulator costs around $300, while a new motor is roughly $250.
- Excessive Oil Consumption:
- Another problem mentioned by owners is excessive oil consumption within the first 10,000 miles. While Toyota and Lexus engines are known to consume more oil as a way of protecting moving components, owners should regularly check the oil levels and top it off as needed.
- Windshield Wiper Motor Failures:
- Owners have experienced windshield wiper motor failures at around 70,000 miles. The only solution is to replace the entire windshield wiper motor setup, costing around $600, depending on local labor rates.
These problems, although reported by owners, are relatively minor compared to other luxury cars on the market, with lower repair costs. Additionally, there are recalls related to the fuel pump, which may fail, but Lexus offers free replacements for affected models. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these issues can help ensure the longevity and performance of the 2018 Lexus ES 300h.
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 are the best years for 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.
Is Lexus ES 300h worth buying?
The Lexus ES 300h isn't exciting and doesn't boast the latest technology, but it doesn't need to because its top-notch comfort and efficient hybrid powertrain appeal to a wide variety of people. It also has a low price of entry for a large luxury hybrid sedan.
Is it expensive to maintain a Lexus ES 300h?
A Lexus ES 300h will cost about $5,662 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for luxury sedan models by $6,299. There is also a 15.13% chance that an ES 300h will require a major repair during that time.
2018 Lexus Es300h car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lexus Es300h problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Lexus Es300h vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Lexus Es300h complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Lexus Es300h.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-09
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTHBW1GG0J2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2018 LEXUS ES300H. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE EXITING THE FREEWAY AT ABOUT 50 MPH, UNABLE TO SEE VERY WELL DURING NIGHT TIME, THE CONTACT WENT OFF THE PAVEMENT AND ONTO THE GRASS. THE CONTACT WAS ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE GUARDRAIL AND REALIZED HE WAS OFF THE ROAD THEN ATTEMPTING TO SLOW DOWN BUT THE VEHICLE SLID ON THE GRASS. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE WALL. THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE JAMMED INWARD TO THE DASHBOARD CAUSING THE STEERING WHEEL TO ENCOUNTER HIS CHEST. ALL THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED BUT THE STEERING WHEEL AIR BAG UNINFLATED RAPIDLY AFTER DEPLOYMENT. THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO OPEN DUE TO BEING JAMMED FROM THE ACCIDENT. THE 'INFORM DEVICE' NOTIFIED AUTHORITIES THAT THE CONTACT WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH. THE CONTACT WIGGLED UNTIL HE WAS RELEASED. A PASSER BY STOPPED TO ASSIST AND OPENED THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE DOOR AND ASSISTED THE CONTACT WITH EXITING THE VEHICLE. THE EMS AND THE POLICE ARRIVED TO THE SCENE. THE CONTACT EXAMINED THE CONTACTS CHEST PAIN, TWO BLOOD PRESSURE EXAMS, AND ECHOCARDIOGRAM ON THE SCENE. THE FOLLOWING MORNING THE CONTACT SOUGHT FURTHER MEDICAL ATTENTION AT A HOSPITAL WHERE HE WAS KEPT FOR 1 DAY. DURING HIS HOSPITAL STAY THERE WERE X RAYS AND CT SCAN WERE PERFORMED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED (CASE NUMBER: 19263125, POLICE OFFICER'S BADGE NUMBER 12). THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND WAS TOWED TO A COLLISION CENTER. THE CONTACT CALLED THE NORTH PARK LEXUS OF SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS DEALER (210-308-8900, LOCATED AT 611 LOCKHILL SELMA RD, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78216) TO INFORM THEM OF THE INCIDENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 36,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-23
- VIN: JTHBW1GG3J2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING THE LOW BEAMS ON MY LEXUS ES 300H ILLUMINATE A MAXIMUM 4 DIVIDING LINES ON A ROAD AND THAT'S EQUAL TO 120 FEET. MY AUTO HIGH BEAMS COME ON FREQUENTLY AS THE LOW BEAM LIGHTS AT NIGHT ARE VERY LIMITED . I HAVE A 2019 CAMRY AND THOSE LIGHTS WHICH ARE SIMILAR ILLUMINATE AT LEAST 200 FEET AND AT LEAST 8 DIVIDING LINES. MY DEALER CHECKED AND STATED THEY ARE CORRECT.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-20
- VIN: JTHBW1GG9J2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE A HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE WITH MY NEW LEXUS ES300H 2018. I LEASED THE CAR FROM KEYES IN VAN NUYS(LA). WHEN I SEAT IN THE CAR AFTER 5 MINUTES SOME THING CAUSE ITCHING MY FACE,THIS SITUATION IS EVEN WORSED WHEN I DRIVE IN THE HIGHWAY. I TOOK MY CAR TO DEALERSHIP MORE THAN 8 TIMES THEY START CLEANING CHANGING THE CABIN AIR FILTER BUT THE PROBLEM IS STILL THERE. I GAVE RIDES TO MY FRIENDS ALSO AND THEY COMPLAIN IN A SAME WAY THAT I DID (ITCHING, COUGHING). LAST WEEK I WENT TO THE HOSPITAL BECAUSE OF BREATHING PROBLEM THAT I GET AND NOW I AM USING INHALATION AEROSOL. THIS ISSUE NEED A SERIOUS INSPECTION BECAUSE NON OF THESE DEALER ARE ABLE TO IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-06
- VIN: JTHBW1GG9J2
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT LEASED A 2018 LEXUS ES300H. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, A CHEMICAL SUBSTANCE ENTERED THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE FROM THE VENTILATION SYSTEM. THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED ITCHING OF THE FACE, COUGHING, AND THROAT COMPLICATIONS THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE DEALER (LEXUS OF SERRAMONTE, 700 SERRAMONTE BLVD, COLMA, CALIFORNIA 94014) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND CLEANED THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 80.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-26
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I WAS TOLD BY A CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENT THROUGH EMAIL THAT "THE LATCH SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR REAR FACING CHILD SEATS." THIS IS COMPLETELY SHOCKING TO ME AS THERE ARE NO INDICATIONS IN THE MANUAL THAT THIS IS THE CASE. WE HAVE BEEN DRIVING WITH OUR DAUGHTER FOR MONTHS USING THE LATCH SYSTEM FOR HER REAR FACING CONVERTIBLE CAR SEAT. IT WOULD HAVE BEEN EASY ENOUGH TO INSTALL WITH THE SEAT BELT INSTEAD.
Negative 2018 Lexus Es300h car reviews
Positive 2018 Lexus Es300h car reviews
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The seats are uncomfortable and feel very hard after driving or riding for two hours or more. Despite being standard Lexus seats, the quality of comfort has dropped considerably compared to my previous two Lexus vehicles.
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The performance of this hybrid car may not be as strong as a V6, but it is designed to provide a quiet, smooth ride with plenty of luxury and superior comfort. Considering its luxury badge, 40MPG and an MSRP just above $40K, it is an excellent value. The continuously variable transmission provides instant acceleration, unlike traditional automatics that need to shift gears for optimal performance. Despite the negative reputation of CVTs, this Lexus model's CVT is nothing like that. The car's sound insulation is superior, making it almost silent during normal driving, whether in the city or on the highway. This also contributes to the car's excellent gas mileage. Even without driving gently, the car easily gets at least 38+ MPG, sometimes even better (40-42 MPG), whether in heavy traffic during rush hour or on the highway. This is a significant improvement compared to my previous V6 car, which would get less than 15 MPG in heavy traffic. The hybrid car shuts off the gas completely when coming to a stop or driving at low speeds, running on the battery entirely. This results in extreme quietness and no vibrations when waiting at an intersection. Thanks to the car's advanced hybrid technology and superior sound insulation, city traffic is now much more manageable.I'm questioning why I spent extra money on a V6 when I don't need the extra power and have to pay more for premium gas that I don't even use. However, I've never driven a hybrid before, so I can't compare the comfort, performance, and efficiency to the ES300h. The great thing about this car is that it only requires regular gas and the front seats are extremely comfortable. With the perforated seats and safety features, it's not just a basic commute sedan, but also a comfortable place to spend time in on longer trips. The 2015 model has some interior cosmetic changes, and I think the steering wheel, dash, and gear knob look much better than the previous generation. Overall, the interior is elegant and beautiful. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone looking for a reasonably priced, entry-level luxury sedan that combines performance and gas efficiency. Lexus offers a longer warranty and one full year of complementary maintenance, and with its reputable long-term reliability, the car should provide a worry-free, enjoyable driving experience.
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I've never owned a hybrid before and was a bit skeptical, but this car has exceeded my expectations. It has outstanding gas mileage without sacrificing handling or power. Even with only 200 hp, the car still has plenty of get-up-and-go when you need it. The ride is quiet and comfortable, and the tech features are top-notch, making for a great driving experience with plenty of creature comforts. I have the Premium Limited edition with park assist, blind spot monitoring (which is the best), automatic high-beam headlights, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic braking, and they are all outstanding. This car is perfect for commuting and weekend travel. Best of all, it has the great Lexus good looks, so not only does it perform well, but it looks great too, and it's nice to know that I'm also getting great mileage.
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I noticed a few things during my time with the car. Firstly, I found that my left leg hit the door moldings, which was a bit uncomfortable for me as I like to open my legs a little when I drive. Additionally, the braking wasn't as responsive as I'm used to, which was a bit alarming at first. However, I didn't have enough time with the car to see if I would get used to it. The ceiling and back seats were a bit low for me, but the leg room was great. It might be a bit tight for three large adults in the back though. On the other hand, the suspension was exceptional and absorbed bumps very well, even on the horrible streets of NYC. The engine noise was a bit loud when accelerating, but that's because it revs very high. Lastly, the sound system was just okay in the Premium version. Overall, I had a decent experience with the car.
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I hope this update finds you well! It's been three years since I purchased my first Lexus, and I still love it just as much as the day I bought it. The car has been incredibly reliable and efficient, achieving 33 miles per gallon around town and 40 on the open freeway. While the navigation system can be a bit tricky to use, it works perfectly when given an address. The ride is smooth and comfortable, and I've taken great care to keep the car looking brand new with only 23,615 miles on it. As a first-time owner of a luxury car and a hybrid, I spent months researching and test driving before ultimately choosing the Lexus 300h. I was drawn to its reliability and impressive hybrid miles per gallon, and I'm happy to say that it has lived up to my expectations. While I do have a couple of minor complaints, such as the navigation system and the car not achieving the advertised 40 miles per gallon around town, I still believe that the Lexus 300h is the best choice for anyone looking for a reliable and cost-efficient hybrid. Thank you for taking the time to read my update!My Lexus dealer tested the gas in the tank and determined that it had a good rating of gas. I have been driving this car for ten months and I must say that it is a pleasure to drive. The car is spectacular, quiet, comfortable, and handles beautifully. It has more than enough power for the hilly topography of southern California. I have made a number of trips to the Bay Area and into Arizona, and achieved a full 40 mph on the long open road. The hybrid efficiency and miles per gallon are impressive. The only two issues I have encountered are that the car does not achieve better than 32 mph, regardless of how hard or soft I drive it, and the exterior design could use a sporty facelift. If the Lexus designers are reading this review, I have one suggestion: add some detail lines across the expansive side panels. Otherwise, this is a terrific car.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Lexus Es300h problems:
ES Hybrid Issues? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion
May 11, 2022 ... The only significant issues/defects that the ES300h Hybrid has is that it has a very anemic low horsepower engine. The car is slow. The 6 ...
Any "common problems" threads ? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum ...
May 25, 2018 ... ... 2018) - Any "common problems" threads ? - Is this car that reliable that this forum doesn't have a common problems thread? I just got a es300h ...
2018 Lexus ES Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jul 13, 2023 ... Common problems found on the 2018 Lexus ES include issues with the power windows, excessive oil consumption, along with some windshield wiper ...
Common issues with ES300h? - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion
Hybrid Technology - Common issues with ES300h? - Hello, I've read a few threads that indicate the engine mounts in the 300h might be more ...
Other years of Lexus Es300h
Are you having problems with your 2018 Lexus Es300h?
Sidney Barrows 2025-07-29
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my 2016 ES300H. When I first bought it in December 2015, the fuel gauge showed a full tank, but the 'Low Fuel' light came on after only 450 miles. I've been driving gently, with no hard acceleration or stopping, and I've been getting around 34-35 mpg in ECO mode. While I've read that some people get up to 40 mpg, I've found that my car consistently gets around 2 mpg less than what is shown on the dashboard. In pleasant temperatures, I can get up to 39-41 mpg, but in the winter, it's much lower. Have you had a similar experience with your ES300H? Best regards!
Garfield Reynolds 2025-04-29
I test drove the 300h with the tech package and liked all of the tech features. I really wanted to like everything about the car, especially since I was impressed with an es350 that I test drove several years ago. However, the 300h that I test drove did not have a smooth ride and there was an excessive amount of wind noise. Maybe I drove a lemon? In the end, I wound up buying a Hyundai hybrid limited. While the interior was not quite as nice, it was quieter and had a smoother ride.
Shad Lesch 2024-02-19
I recently purchased a Toyota Avalon hybrid Limited for $7,700 less than the Lexus ES 300h. In my opinion, the Avalon offers more features, better styling, intuitive technology, a bigger trunk, and is just plain fun to drive. Interestingly, the Avalon is built on the same frame as the Lexus LS, while the Lexus ES is built on Toyota's Camry frame. As a former Lexus ES 350 owner, I can say that I loved that car! However, I believe that the new ones are no match for my old Lexus or for the Toyota Avalon Limited.