Lexus Es330 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 Es330 model years
Common Lexus Es330 problems
The Lexus ES330 is a midsize luxury sedan known for its powerful 3.3 Liter V6 engine, quiet and comfortable ride, and overall reliability. However, like any vehicle, the ES330 has some common problems that owners may encounter.
One of the most common issues with the ES330 is related to its engine. Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. This issue is more commonly seen in the earlier years of the ES330, particularly the 2004 model.
Transmission problems are another area of concern with the Lexus ES330. Some owners have reported transmission slipping, where the transmission fails to shift gears smoothly. Transmission fluid leaks are also a common issue, which can cause the transmission to run low on fluid and lead to further damage. Finally, some ES330 owners have experienced complete transmission failure, which can be a costly repair.
The suspension and steering system is another area where some ES330 owners have reported issues. Steering wheel vibrations are a common complaint, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as worn suspension components or tire balance issues. Suspension noises, such as rattling or clunking sounds, are also reported by some ES330 owners. Power steering fluid leaks can also occur, leading to reduced power steering assist and potential damage to the power steering system.
Electrical problems can also be a concern with the Lexus ES330. Some owners have reported power window issues, where the power windows fail to operate properly. Dashboard warning lights can also be a common issue, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as a faulty sensor or wiring issue. Finally, alternator failure can occur, which can cause the battery to lose charge and result in a car that won't start.
It is worth noting that while the ES330 has some common problems, it is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle. The ES330 is built on the same platform as the reliable Camry, and most owners report that the car is fantastic due to its overall reliability and ride quality. However, like any vehicle, regular maintenance and care are important to ensure the longevity and reliability of the ES330.
Are Lexus ES330 reliable?
This car is an excellent value,a very reliable midsize luxury car that is also very beautiful. Engine and transmission are fantastic. all you need to do is service as required.
How long will a Lexus ES330 last?
The car could easily go to 300k miles and beyond. If you see one in good shape don't hesitate to buy it. The Lexus will serve you well for a very long time.
What is the recall on the Lexus ES330?
2005 Lexus ES 330 Recall
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A FRONT PASSENGER POWER SEAT, WHEN INSTALLING CERTAIN REAR-FACING INFANT CHILD SEAT BASES ONTO THE SEAT WITH AN EXCESSIVELY HIGH SEATBELT TENSION, IT MAY BE POSSIBLE TO UNSEAT A COMPONENT CALLED THE BUCKLE STATUS SWITCH FROM THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE.
Is a 2006 Lexus ES330 a good car?
The ES330 provides one of the most quiet and comfortable driving experiences in the class. We like its smooth powertrain, impressive fit and finish, and fairly roomy interior. The then-new 3.3-liter V6 engine slightly improved acceleration and fuel economy over its predecessor.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lexus Es330 years
We have researched Lexus problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lexus Es330 cars and compiled the top 4 most problematic Lexus Es330 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lexus Es330 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lexus Es330 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lexus Es330 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lexus Es330 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lexus Es330 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Es330 model years
A total of 105 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 Es330 model years
There were a total of 5 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 Es330 model years
There were a total of 61 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Es330 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 466 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lexus Es330 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lexus Es330 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lexus Es330 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-05
- VIN: JTHBA30G855
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: passenger dash airbag is coming apart at the seems.
Lexus Es330 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-22
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-15
- VIN: JTHBA30G455
- Components: SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,WHEELS
- Summary: Severe vibration from 30-70mph when acceleration, outboard boot split/slinging grease on left/right sides. CV axle has alot of movement. Right and Left axle shaft needs removed and replaced.
Lexus Es330 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-02
- VIN: JTHBA30G245
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The passenger side airbag is shrinking and seems to be collapsing into the dashboard. There is an indicator light on the passenger side that is lit up noting that "airbag off," so apparently there is no airbag protection for passenger. Three days ago, the right side of the windshield - passenger side, and the passenger window and passenger side back seat window, were all moist and foggy in the morning. There were no windows opened. I think the airbag situation is causing the airbag to leak moisture into the surrounding windows and the passenger side of the car. I don't know what this fluid/moisture is composed of, but I can only imagine it must be some type of chemical - something that you do not want to be leaking into the car on a daily basis.
Lexus Es330 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2020-12-29
- VIN: JTHBA30G465
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE PASSENGER AIR BAG APPEARS TO BECOMING DETACHED FROM THE DASH. IT SEEMS THAT IT MAY DEPLOY AT ANY GIVEN TIME. THIS DOES NOT FEEL SAFE TO ME AS MY FAMILY RIDES IN THE CAR WITH ME.
Lexus Es330 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-07-10
- VIN: JTHBA30G945
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED OVERNIGHT IN GARAGE. THOUGH NOT NOTICED IMMEDIATELY, SOMETIME DURING THE MORNING I NOTICED MY DASHBOARD VINYL AROUND THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG LOOKED SWOLLEN , AND UPON EXAMINATION, IT SHOWED A SPLIT IN THE VINYL ALSO. I TOOK IT TO A REPUTABLE AUTO REPAIR SHOP AND WAS TOLD IT WOULD COST THOUSANDS TO FIX, BUT THAT A DEALERSHIP MIGHT BE ABLE TO HELP. SO I WENT TO THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEAL WHO SAID SOME VEHICLES HAD RECALLS BUT MINE DID NOT. AS TIME GOES ON, THE VINYL SEEMS TO HAVE PRESSURE BUILDING BEHIND IT, AND THE SPLIT IS MORE OBVIOUS. I AM AFRAID TO ALLOW PASSENGERS TO SIT IN THAT SEAT. I AM AFRAID IF THE AIRBAG BURST OUT WHILE I AM DRIVING, I MAY OVERREACT AND WRECK. THIS IS NOT SAFE AT ALL. PLEASE HELP.
Lexus Es330 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-07-10
- VIN: JTHBA30G555
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 LEXUS ES350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS DEFECTIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 72,000.
Lexus Es330 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-12
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-25
- VIN: JTHBA306245
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: EVERY WINDOW HAS STOPPED WORKING.THE FIRST ONE STOPPED GOING UP D OWN TEN YEARS AGO NOW THEY HAVE ALL STOPPED.
Lexus Es330 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-07
- VIN: JTHBA30G355
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY DEGRADES THEREBY CAUSING THE LIGHTS TO APPEAR EXTREMELY DIM WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT. *TR
Lexus Es330 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-04
- Date Complaint: 2019-10-23
- VIN: JTHBA30G165
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG COVER ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IS CRACKED AND LOOKS AS IF IT IS GOING TO POP. THIS COULD BE A HAZARD.
Lexus Es330 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2019-09-09
- VIN: JTHBA30G955
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY PASSENGER AIRBAG COMPARTMENT ON FRONT DASH HAS BEEN SLOWLY BEEN LIFTING AND SEPARATING THOUGH THE CAR HAS NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT. IS THE AIRBAG GOING TO IMPLODE ONE DAY ON A PASSENGER WITHOUT US KNOWING? IT IS LOOKING SCARY BUT I SEE THERE IS NO RECALL.
Lexus Es330 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-06
- Date Complaint: 2019-08-09
- VIN: JTHBA30G665
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG COVER ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CAR IS STARTING TO CRACK AND LIFT,SEEMS LIKE PRESSURE IS CAUSING THE LIFT. TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD IT'S BECAUSE THE DASHBOARD IS OLD. COMPARED IT TO AN ES300, THE AIR BAG DEFINITELY HAS STARTED TO LIFT.
Lexus Es330 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-02
- Date Complaint: 2019-08-06
- VIN: JTHBA30G765
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CRACKING AROUND THE AIRBAG LINING. THIS LOOKS LIKE A SEVERE SAFETY ISSUE AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED.
Lexus Es330 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-25
- Date Complaint: 2019-06-25
- VIN: JTHBA30G955
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: JUST BOUGHT CAR TODAY. HAD NEW TIRES INSTALLED AND THEY TOLD ME THEY PUT THE CAR IN PARK BUT IR STARTED ROLLING. HAD TO RESTART IN NEUTRAL AND PUT IN PARK AGAIN. WHEN I LEFT WENT TO AUTO PARTS STORE AND PARKED AND TURNED VEHICLE OFF. AS I WAS GETTING OUT REALIZED CAR WAS ROLLING. I PUT FOOT ON BRAKE AND CAR RESTARTED WITHOUT PUTTING IN NEUTRAL. SHIFTED TO DRIVE AND BACK TO PARK AND IT STOPPED THIS TIME.
Lexus Es330 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-31
- Date Complaint: 2019-05-29
- VIN: JTHBA30G855
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: PASSENGER SEAT AIRBAG SENSOR LIGHT ON WHEN SEATED
Lexus Es330 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2019-04-26
- VIN: JTHBA30G224
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: INTERMEDIATE WIPERS HAVE NEVER WORKED.
Recalls Lexus Es330
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the Lexus Es330.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lexus Es330 2004
- Report Received Date: 2011-11-09
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AVALON VEHICLES; 2004 AND 2005 CAMRY, CAMRY SOLARA, HIGHLANDER, AND SIENNA VEHICLES, 2006 HIGHLANDER HYBRID; 2004 AND 2005 LEXUS ES330 AND RX330; AND 2006 LEXUS RX400H VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 2004 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2005, EQUIPPED WITH THE 1MZ-FE OR 3MZ-FE ENGINE. THE AMOUNT OF ADHESIVE AGENT APPLIED BETWEEN THE OUTER RING AND THE TORSIONAL RUBBER DAMPER (INNER RING) IN THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY MAY BE INADEQUATE. IF THE ADHESIVE IS INSUFFICIENT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE OUTER RING MAY BECOME MISALIGNED AND IT MAY NOT PROPERLY ROTATE WITH THE INNER RING, CAUSING NOISE AND/OR ILLUMINATION OF THE BATTERY DISCHARGE INDICATOR LIGHT.
- Consequence: IN SOME CASES, THE BELT FOR THE POWER STEERING PUMP MAY BECOME DETACHED FROM THE PULLEY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND A SUDDEN INCREASE IN STEERING EFFORT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL CHECK THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY TO IDENTIFY WHETHER IT WAS PRODUCED BY THE U.S. SUPPLIER. IF SO, THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE PULLEY WITH A NEW ONE AT NO CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING EARLY JANUARY 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Model: Lexus Es330 2005
- Report Received Date: 2011-11-09
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AVALON VEHICLES; 2004 AND 2005 CAMRY, CAMRY SOLARA, HIGHLANDER, AND SIENNA VEHICLES, 2006 HIGHLANDER HYBRID; 2004 AND 2005 LEXUS ES330 AND RX330; AND 2006 LEXUS RX400H VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 2004 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2005, EQUIPPED WITH THE 1MZ-FE OR 3MZ-FE ENGINE. THE AMOUNT OF ADHESIVE AGENT APPLIED BETWEEN THE OUTER RING AND THE TORSIONAL RUBBER DAMPER (INNER RING) IN THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY MAY BE INADEQUATE. IF THE ADHESIVE IS INSUFFICIENT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE OUTER RING MAY BECOME MISALIGNED AND IT MAY NOT PROPERLY ROTATE WITH THE INNER RING, CAUSING NOISE AND/OR ILLUMINATION OF THE BATTERY DISCHARGE INDICATOR LIGHT.
- Consequence: IN SOME CASES, THE BELT FOR THE POWER STEERING PUMP MAY BECOME DETACHED FROM THE PULLEY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND A SUDDEN INCREASE IN STEERING EFFORT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL CHECK THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY TO IDENTIFY WHETHER IT WAS PRODUCED BY THE U.S. SUPPLIER. IF SO, THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE PULLEY WITH A NEW ONE AT NO CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING EARLY JANUARY 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Model: Lexus Es330 2005
- Report Received Date: 2004-12-15
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A FRONT PASSENGER POWER SEAT, WHEN INSTALLING CERTAIN REAR-FACING INFANT CHILD SEAT BASES ONTO THE SEAT WITH AN EXCESSIVELY HIGH SEATBELT TENSION, IT MAY BE POSSIBLE TO UNSEAT A COMPONENT CALLED THE BUCKLE STATUS SWITCH FROM THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE.
- Consequence: IF THE SWITCH BECOMES UNSEATED, THE FRONT PASSENGER OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM MAY MISTAKE THE REAR-FACING CHILD RESTRAINT FOR AN UNBELTED ADULT OCCUPANT, AND MAY NOT SUPPRESS THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT PASSENGER SEATBELT BUCKLE STATUS SWITCH. THIS SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN (SSC 40M) BEGAN ON DECEMBER 20, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 OR LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987..
Latest negative Lexus Es330 car reviews
Latest positive Lexus Es330 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
I love my car! It's an affordable luxury car that takes me to the next level. The car is beautiful inside and out, and even though the fuel economy isn't great, at least it's only 2.49 a gallon. Overall, I'm a happy camper!
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Vehicle year: 2006
An exceptional car in my opinion. The fit and finish is superb. Power is more than adequate for a 63 year old.
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Vehicle year: 2004
The Acura dealer made a huge mistake. I had mentioned that I needed to test drive a Lexus ES before committing to the TL. The ES turned out to be incredibly quiet inside, with an almost silent engine and minimal road noise. It was as smooth as silk, with seamless transmission shifts and effortless handling around curves. While it may not be the fastest car off the line, it still has plenty of power and you'll never be left behind - after all, it's a Lexus!
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Vehicle year: 2005
The new 5-speed transmission seems to be causing some issues, such as shifting either hard or with hesitation. In slow traffic, the transmission falls out of gear and then surges and jerks to find the right gear. Unfortunately, Lexus has not yet found a solution for this problem with this particular model, despite it being recognized by their dealers and service departments.
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Vehicle year: 2006
The car is a heavy-duty machine that feels almost supernatural.
Are you having problems with your Lexus Es330?
Wyman Hirthe 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2005
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my Lexus that I bought this summer. I've been having some trouble with hesitation and jerking when starting to accelerate, which has been a bit frustrating. The dealer mentioned that this is normal for a V6 engine, but I'm not so sure. I'm hoping to find a solution soon, as I really love my car! One thing I did notice is that the drink holder between the front seats is in a bit of an awkward spot. If you're not careful, you might spill your drink while changing gears. Overall, I've had a good experience with Lexus, but I'm hoping to find a solution to these issues soon.
Napoleon Dare 2024-09-13
Vehicle year: 2005
The car's tires, transmission, and gas mileage are subpar, and it lacks performance for its price. Additionally, it struggles with traction in snowy conditions, and the original tires had to be replaced quickly due to their inability to handle wet conditions in New England. However, the new tires provide excellent traction, albeit with increased noise and a slightly stiffer ride. Overall, the tire replacement was a worthwhile improvement.
Zakary Macejkovic 2024-08-09
Vehicle year: 2005
This vehicle may not be the most exciting to drive, and the transmission can sometimes hesitate or struggle to select the right gear.
Kay Mohr 2024-05-10
Vehicle year: 2006
The tires have been balanced five times and all tires on the car have been changed by the dealer, yet the car still vibrates at highway speeds. Additionally, there is a lot of wind noise coming from over the driver's door and the car doesn't shift smoothly in stop-and-go traffic. The armrests are too hard for a luxury car and the garage door button cannot be found in the dark due to lack of illumination. Although the front end was out of line when purchased, it has been fixed. While this car has been disappointing, it is important to note that Lexus is a highly respected brand.
Isaiah Watsica 2024-04-15
Vehicle year: 2006
I have owned both a Lexus and a Park Avenue, and in my experience, the Park Avenue had more comfortable seats, more leg and head room, front and back, a smoother transmission, better overall ride, better gas mileage (3 to 4 more miles per gallon on regular gas), better designed dash and driving controls, as well as more luxury features. In my opinion, the Lexus is overrated and has been a great disappointment. I wish they still made the Park Avenue.