Are Lexus ES 350s reliable?
The Lexus ES 350 has long been a popular choice among luxury sedan enthusiasts, known for its comfort, smooth ride, and premium features. But when it comes to reliability, how does it stack up? As an experienced auto service provider, I’ll break down the key factors that contribute to the Lexus ES 350’s reputation for reliability and what you should consider if you’re thinking about owning one.
What Makes the Lexus ES 350 Reliable?
The Lexus ES 350 is widely regarded as one of the most reliable luxury sedans on the market. Here are the main reasons why:
- Proven Toyota Engineering: Lexus is Toyota’s luxury division, and the ES 350 benefits from Toyota’s legendary reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles. The ES 350 shares many components with Toyota models, ensuring high-quality engineering and reliability.
- Consistent Performance: The ES 350 is equipped with a naturally aspirated V6 engine, which is known for its smooth power delivery and long-term durability. Unlike turbocharged engines, which can be more complex and prone to issues, the V6 in the ES 350 is simpler and easier to maintain.
- High-Quality Materials: Lexus vehicles are built with premium materials that not only enhance the driving experience but also contribute to the car’s longevity. From the interior upholstery to the exterior paint, the ES 350 is designed to withstand wear and tear.
- Excellent Maintenance Support: Lexus offers comprehensive maintenance programs and has a strong network of service centers, making it easy for owners to keep their vehicles in top condition.
Common Issues to Watch For
While the Lexus ES 350 is highly reliable, no car is completely free of potential issues. Here are a few common problems reported by owners:
- Transmission Hesitation: Some owners have reported slight hesitation in the automatic transmission, particularly in earlier models. Regular maintenance and software updates can help address this issue.
- Suspension Wear: Over time, components like struts and bushings may wear out, especially if the car is driven on rough roads. Routine inspections can help catch these issues early.
- Infotainment System Glitches: Some users have experienced minor glitches with the infotainment system, such as screen freezing or connectivity issues. These are typically resolved with software updates.
How to Maximize the Reliability of Your Lexus ES 350
To ensure your Lexus ES 350 remains reliable for years to come, follow these tips:
- Stick to the Maintenance Schedule: Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections are crucial for keeping your car in top shape.
- Use Genuine Parts: Always opt for genuine Lexus or Toyota parts when replacing components to maintain the car’s performance and reliability.
- Address Issues Promptly: If you notice any unusual noises, warning lights, or performance changes, have them checked out by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The Lexus ES 350 is a reliable and well-built luxury sedan that offers a smooth driving experience and long-term dependability. With proper maintenance and care, it can serve you well for many years. If you’re considering purchasing one, rest assured that it’s a solid choice for reliability and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable year for Lexus 350?
If you're looking for a used RX 350, the best model years include 2011, 2015, and 2018 due to aspects like reliability, reviews, and model innovations. However, you'll want to stay away from the 2007, 2008, 2010, and 2017 RX 350s as they, unfortunately, have experienced significant issues.
Are Lexus reliable after 100k miles?
Because Lexus engines are very high quality, they easily and routinely last for over 100,000 miles each, and before that point you rarely will have major repairs. However, after the 100,000-mile mark, there are some reports of more repairs.
Is the Lexus ES 350 a reliable car?
How Reliable Is the Lexus ES 350? RepairPal gives the Lexus ES 350 a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, ranking it fourth out of 31 luxury midsize cars. This model's annual repair and maintenance costs are usually around $470—that's $270 lower compared to other luxury midsize cars.
Is a Lexus ES 350 like a Camry?
The ES 350 has a slight advantage over the Camry, with 302 hp and 267 lb. -ft of torque. The 3.5 liter V-6 engine also comes standard on the ES 350. To match the ES 350's performance and engine, you'll need to opt for a higher trim of the Toyota Camry.
Is Lexus ES 350 expensive to maintain?
The average annual repair cost for a Lexus is $551, which means it has above average ownership costs. The other factors that contribute to Lexus reliability include an average of 0.5 visits to a repair shop per year and a 8% probability of a repair being severe.
How long will a Lexus ES 350 last?
between 220,000 and 250,000 miles
On average, a Lexus ES 350 can last between 220,000 and 250,000 miles.
Is Lexus ES 350 expensive to insure?
The average minimum for the upgraded ES 350 model, which has more features than the standard version, generally costs around $1,068 per month, while the annual full coverage premium for this model is around $2,580. At Freeway Insurance, we offer affordable car insurance that fits your needs and budget.
Why is an oil change for a Lexus so expensive?
The higher cost of a Lexus oil change can be attributed to several factors. These include the use of synthetic oil, higher labor costs at a dealership, and the inclusion of additional services and inspections.
What year is the Lexus ES 350 most reliable?
Buy: 2013-2018 Lexus ES
If we have to pick the best of the bunch, we have to go with the 2017 Lexus ES 350 because it offers a good balance of athletic performance, well-optioned features, and top-notch reliability.
Is Lexus expensive to maintain?
Lexus vehicles usually come with pretty average upkeep costs. According to data from RepairPal, the average annual repair cost for a Lexus vehicle is $551. Naturally, this cost can fluctuate based on vehicle model, age, driving conditions, maintenance practices, and more.
