Does a Lexus ES 350 have a catalytic converter?
Yes, the Lexus ES 350 does have a catalytic converter. Catalytic converters are a standard feature on all modern gasoline-powered vehicles, including the Lexus ES 350, to help reduce harmful emissions from the engine.
What is a Catalytic Converter?
A catalytic converter is an emissions control device that is installed in the exhaust system of a vehicle. Its primary function is to convert toxic pollutants in the exhaust, such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides, into less harmful substances before they are released into the atmosphere.
Catalytic converters work by using a catalyst, typically made of precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, to facilitate chemical reactions that break down these pollutants. As the exhaust passes through the converter, the catalyst helps to convert the harmful compounds into more benign substances, such as carbon dioxide and water vapor.
Catalytic Converters in the Lexus ES 350
The Lexus ES 350 is equipped with a catalytic converter as standard equipment. This is a requirement for all gasoline-powered vehicles sold in the United States and many other countries around the world, as part of emissions regulations aimed at reducing air pollution from vehicles.
The specific catalytic converter used in the Lexus ES 350 may vary depending on the model year and other factors, but it is an essential component of the vehicle's exhaust system and plays a crucial role in ensuring that the car meets applicable emissions standards.
Importance of Catalytic Converters
- Environmental Protection: Catalytic converters help to reduce the amount of harmful pollutants released into the air, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
- Emissions Regulations: The presence of a functioning catalytic converter is a legal requirement for vehicles in many countries, as part of efforts to curb vehicle emissions and meet environmental regulations.
- Fuel Efficiency: By reducing the amount of unburnt fuel in the exhaust, catalytic converters can also contribute to improved fuel efficiency for the vehicle.
In summary, the Lexus ES 350 is equipped with a catalytic converter as a standard feature, which is an essential component for reducing harmful emissions and meeting environmental regulations. The catalytic converter plays a vital role in the vehicle's overall environmental performance and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
What is the common problem in Lexus ES 350?
Common problems reported for the Lexus ES 350 include oil leaks, issues with the infotainment and navigation systems, a melting dashboard, and potential engine problems like blown cylinder head gaskets, especially in certain model years. Owners have also noted problems with brakes, window or sunroof malfunctions, and steering issues.
Engine and mechanical issues
- Oil leaks: Leaks from the engine area, often due to faulty gaskets or seals, are frequently reported.
- Engine problems: Issues such as blown cylinder head gaskets (particularly in 2007-2009 models), ticking or knocking sounds, and general engine problems can occur.
- Brakes: Some owners report premature wear on brake pads and rotors, as well as vibration or pulsation during braking.
- Steering: Problems with the steering system have also been cited.
- Transmission: Major transmission issues have been reported in some cases.
Electrical and infotainment problems
- Melting dashboard: This is a well-known issue on some models, where the dashboard material degrades and melts.
- Infotainment and navigation: Common complaints include issues with the infotainment system, GPS failures, and software problems.
- Windows and sunroofs: Some owners have reported that windows or the sunroof can open on their own.
- Airbags: There have been recalls for airbag issues, such as the passenger front airbag not deploying as needed.
Other issues
- Intended acceleration: Some drivers have experienced unintended acceleration.
- Wind noise: Intrusive wind noise, particularly at highway speeds, is noted by some owners of newer models.
What year to stay away from Lexus ES 350?
You should avoid the 2007, 2008, 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2015 Lexus ES 350 models due to common issues like melting dashboards, engine/transmission problems, and other mechanical failures. While some later years also have specific reported problems, such as a hollow door design on some 2019 models that causes noise, the 2007-2015 period contains the most widely cited issues.
Years to avoid and common problems
- 2007–2009: Prone to oil leaks, engine issues like blown head gaskets, and AC problems from a defective evaporator core. The 2007 model is particularly known for its melting dashboard. Transmission problems like rough shifting and hesitations are also common.
- 2011: Has a high number of complaints for various problems, including engine and transmission issues, as well as other mechanical failures.
- 2013–2015: Reportedly have issues with exploding sunroofs, engine stalls when turning, and door lock malfunctions. Some of these years also saw problems with ventilated seats and powertrain fluid leaks.
- 2019: Some owners reported that the doors feel hollow and let in a lot of road noise, a problem that was reportedly fixed around the 2020-2021 model years.
Years that are generally considered more reliable
- 2012: Often mentioned as a good year to buy.
- 2017–2019: Generally considered reliable with modern features.
- 2020 and later: The years following the 2019 model year are generally considered more reliable, with some specific minor issues such as the hollow doors on 2019 models being addressed in later models.
Are Lexus targeted for catalytic converter theft?
Other hybrids are also target for catalytic converter theft. This includes Honda, Lexus RX, and the Toyota Auris.
How much is a catalytic converter for Lexus ES 350?
between $1,936 and $1,994
The average cost for a Lexus ES350 Catalytic Converter Replacement is between $1,936 and $1,994. Labor costs are estimated between $123 and $181 while parts are typically priced around $1,813.
