Is 2009 a good year for Lexus ES 350?

Yes. The 2009 Lexus ES 350 remains a strong used-car choice due to Lexus reliability, a smooth V6, and a comfortable ride; however, as an older model with higher miles, you should budget for maintenance and potential wear.

Below is a detailed look at why the 2009 ES 350 remains appealing, what to watch for in terms of reliability and upkeep, and practical buying tips to help you decide if it fits your needs.

Performance and ride quality

Key performance and comfort attributes of the 2009 ES 350 include a refined V6, quiet cabin, and a smooth ride, with handling tuned for comfort rather than sportiness.

• Refined and relatively quiet ride with a well-damped suspension


• Smoothly responsive 3.5L V6 that provides adequate highway acceleration


• Predictable steering with confident, steady handling in daily driving


• Quiet interior that supports relaxed long-distance cruising


• Comfortable front seats and a serene, upscale feel inside the cabin

Overall, the ES 350 prioritizes comfort, refinement, and ease of use over sporty performance.

Reliability and ownership costs

Reliability has long been a selling point for Lexus, and the ES 350 is generally dependable; however, aging vehicles require thoughtful budgeting for upkeep and replacement parts.

• Strong overall reliability reputation and typically good resale value


• Durable V6 with a long service life when properly maintained


• Expect wear items such as tires, brakes, and suspension components to require replacement as the car ages


• For high-mileage examples, be mindful of potential oil leaks or consumption and have service history reviewed


• Parts availability and independent-shop support are good, keeping maintenance costs reasonable for a luxury sedan

With regular maintenance and careful shopping, many owners report trouble-free ownership well into higher mileage ranges.

Interior, technology, and practicality

The interior of the 2009 ES 350 is known for high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and a quiet cabin, though tech features reflect the era's standards rather than today's cutting-edge systems.

• Comfortable, supportive front seats with ample legroom


• Quality materials and solid build quality for a mid-luxury sedan


• Quiet cabin with effective sound insulation for relaxed commuting


• Standard features include dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable seats, and a reputable audio system; navigation was optional


• Practical trunk space with a wide opening for easy loading

Overall, the interior remains a strong selling point for daily usability and long trips, though owners should not expect the latest in infotainment tech.

Buying tips and what to watch for

When shopping a 2009 ES 350, a thorough pre-purchase assessment is essential to avoid surprises and ensure value for money.

1. Review full service records for regular maintenance and any major work on the engine, transmission, and cooling system


2. Inspect the suspension, tires, and brakes for uneven wear or signs of past impact or rough road use


3. Test drive to confirm smooth transmission operation, absence of shuddering, and steady idle


4. Inspect for signs of engine oil leaks around seals, valve covers, and the oil pan; check oil level and condition


5. Check for electrical gremlins in the infotainment system and verify function of climate control and power options


6. Review any recalls and ensure airbags, seating, and safety systems are up to date


7. Consider a professional pre-purchase inspection to catch hidden wear or potential issues

A diligent inspection significantly lowers risk when buying a 2009 ES 350, particularly given its age and mileage.

Summary

The 2009 Lexus ES 350 offers a durable, comfortable, and refined ownership experience with solid resale and a reputation for reliability. It remains a compelling choice for buyers prioritizing a smooth ride and lasting quality, provided you budget for maintenance on an aging, higher-mileage vehicle and verify comprehensive service history.

Is the 2009 Lexus ES 350 a good car?

Edmunds says. The 2009 Lexus ES 350, with its plush ride, strong performance and beautiful interior, is a fine choice for an entry-level luxury sedan.

What is the life expectancy of a 2009 Lexus ES 350?

A 2009 Lexus ES 350 can have a life expectancy of 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper and consistent maintenance, such as regular oil changes and fluid flushes. Many owners report their cars exceeding 200,000 miles with minimal major issues, thanks to the vehicle's reliability.
 
Factors influencing longevity

• Regular maintenance: Following the recommended service schedule in the owner's manual is crucial for reaching high mileage. 
• Engine and drivetrain quality: As a Toyota product, the ES 350 is known for its durable engine and overall reliability, often surpassing the life expectancy estimates for other brands. 
• Driving habits: Your personal driving habits, such as city versus highway driving, can affect the wear and tear on the vehicle. 
• Owner care: A history of consistent care, including oil changes, transmission fluid changes, and other recommended services, significantly increases the vehicle's potential lifespan. 

Examples of high-mileage vehicles

• Some owners report their ES 350s reaching 250,000 miles with no major problems. 
• Other Lexus models, like the LS 430, have become known for reaching 500,000 miles, showcasing the brand's potential for long-term durability. 
• In online forums, owners frequently share stories of their ES 350s exceeding 200,000 miles, with some reaching over 300,000 miles. 

Is a 2009 Lexus reliable?

Among the 455 owners who provided feedback on the 2009 Lexus IS for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 95% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's quality and reliability to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.

What year is the Lexus ES 350 most reliable?

The most reliable Lexus ES 350 years are generally considered to be 2012, 2017, 2018, and 2019. Other reliable model years include the 2007–2012 and 2013–2018 ranges, though early models in the latter generation had more reported issues like sunroof leaks. 
Reliable model years

• 2012: A strong option due to being on the market long enough to prove its reliability and having high performance ratings. 
• 2017, 2018, and 2019: These model years are frequently cited as reliable, with the 2019 model year representing a significant upgrade in design, interior quality, and technology. 

Model years to be cautious of

• 2013-2014: While generally reliable, the 2013 model year had reports of issues like exploding sunroofs, water leakage, and problems with ventilated seats.
• 2015: Had one recall for the pre-collision system, though dealerships typically handled this for free. 

Other considerations

• Engine: The 3.5L V6 engine is known for its durability and can last for 250,000–300,000 miles. 
• Maintenance: The overall reliability of any used car depends heavily on how well it was maintained by its previous owners.