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How long will a 2016 Lexus ES 350 last?

The 2016 Lexus ES 350 can reasonably be expected to reach well over 200,000 miles with proper care, and many examples push toward 250,000 miles or more. With diligent maintenance and attentive driving habits, some owners report approaching or exceeding 300,000 miles.


Longevity depends on a combination of maintenance, driving conditions, and how proactively issues are addressed. The ES 350’s reliability is rooted in Toyota/Lexus engineering, but the actual lifespan hinges on routine service, component wear, and environmental factors.


Key factors that influence how long an ES 350 lasts


Several elements determine how long a 2016 ES 350 remains on the road. The following list highlights the most important ones that affect durability and total mileage.



  • Maintenance schedule adherence: following the factory service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections is the single biggest lever for longevity.

  • Engine and transmission health: the 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) and six-speed automatic are known for durability when fluids are changed on time and cooling systems are well maintained.

  • Fluids and cooling system: regular changes of engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid prevent wear and overheating.

  • Preventive parts replacement: timing chain guides, water pump, hoses, belts, spark plugs, and ignition components should be inspected and replaced per manual recommendations.

  • Driving conditions: highway cruising tends to reduce wear compared with frequent short trips and heavy city stop-and-go, which can accelerate wear on brakes and the cooling system.

  • Climate and road conditions: extreme heat, cold, and salted roads can accelerate corrosion and wear if proper care (rust protection, undercoating) is neglected.


Sticking to a disciplined maintenance plan and addressing issues early are the best ways to maximize the ES 350’s lifespan.


What real-world mileage looks like for the ES 350


Actual longevity varies with service history and usage patterns. The most common lifetime milestones observed in well-maintained examples are:



  • 200,000 miles and up: a typical milestone for a Lexus with consistent service and careful driving.

  • 250,000 miles: reached by many owners who keep up with maintenance and address issues promptly.

  • 300,000 miles or more: less common, but increasingly reported by enthusiasts who prioritize preventive upkeep and high-quality parts.


These figures illustrate possibilities rather than guarantees; outcomes depend on how well the car has been cared for and how it is driven.


Maintenance tips to extend life of the ES 350


To maximize the odds of long-term reliability, consider the following routine practices. The list below explains the purpose and scope of each item.


Key maintenance tasks


The following tasks are widely recommended to help the ES 350 reach higher mileages.



  • Follow the owner’s manual intervals for oil changes, using synthetic oil if recommended for your climate and driving style.

  • Regularly inspect and replace fluids as needed: coolant, transmission fluid (per manual), brake fluid, and power steering fluid.

  • Keep the cooling system healthy: radiator, hoses, thermostat, and water pump inspection; address leaks promptly.

  • Monitor belts and other accessory components; replace worn parts even if the timing chain itself is designed for long life.

  • Replace spark plugs and ignition components as recommended to maintain smooth running and efficiency.

  • Maintain tires, alignment, and suspension components to reduce uneven wear and stress on the drivetrain.

  • Schedule routine inspections to catch signs of wear early, such as unusual noises, rough shifting, or overheating.


Sticking to a disciplined maintenance plan and addressing issues early can substantially extend the ES 350’s useful life.


Summary


Bottom line: The 2016 Lexus ES 350 is renowned for reliability and can reasonably be expected to reach 200,000 miles or more with consistent maintenance. Real-world results vary, but diligent service, careful driving, and proactive care of fluids, the cooling system, and wear items give the model a strong track record for longevity within its class. When evaluating a used ES 350, reviewing a complete service history and conducting a thorough pre-purchase inspection can help gauge its long-term durability.

Are Lexus reliable after 100k miles?


Yes, Lexus vehicles are generally very reliable after 100,000 miles, often lasting well over 200,000 to 300,000 miles, especially with proper and regular maintenance. Because they are built on Toyota's reputation for dependability, they maintain high performance and longevity, though owners should anticipate potential repairs like timing belt replacements or sensor issues as the car ages. 
Factors contributing to Lexus reliability past 100k miles

  • Strong engineering: Lexus cars benefit from high-quality engineering and rigorous testing, contributing to their long lifespan. 
  • Toyota heritage: As a luxury division of Toyota, Lexus inherits the brand's reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles. 
  • Owner reports: Many owners report that their Lexus vehicles continue to drive smoothly and quietly even after passing the 100,000-mile mark. 
  • Maintenance is key: Regular maintenance is crucial for longevity. Consistent oil changes, filter replacements, and other checks are essential to keep the car running well past 100,000 miles. 

What to expect with high-mileage Lexus vehicles
  • Potential for repairs: While reliable, high-mileage Lexus models may eventually require more significant and potentially costly repairs, such as replacing a timing belt or certain sensors. 
  • Varying model durability: The reliability can vary by model. For example, specific older models like the LS 430 and the LX/GX SUVs are often cited as particularly long-lasting, says this YouTube video. 
  • High cost of ownership: The average annual repair cost for a Lexus is slightly above average compared to other brands, so plan for higher ownership costs as the vehicle accumulates miles. 



How many miles will a 2016 Lexus ES 350 last?


On average, a Lexus ES 350 can last between 220,000 and 250,000 miles. But how does this compare to its competitors? To assess the reliability of the ES 350, it is important to analyze its performance compared to its competitors. Let's take a look at below.



Is the 2016 Lexus ES 350 reliable?


Reliability. The 2016 Lexus ES 350 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranks it #3 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars.



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. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.