What engine is in the Lexus ES 330?
The Lexus ES 330 uses a 3.3-liter V6 engine, the 3MZ-FE.
In model years 2004 through 2006, the ES 330 replaced the ES300 and was powered by this 3.3-liter V6 with variable valve timing to deliver refined, smooth performance for daily driving.
Engine specifications
Key technical details of the ES 330’s engine are summarized below.
- Displacement: 3.3 liters
- Configuration: V6
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 24 valves
- Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection with sequential multi-port injection
- Variable valve timing: VVT-i
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
These specifications underpin the ES 330’s reputation for refined power delivery and steady performance in everyday use.
Evolution within the Lexus ES lineup
Following the ES 330, Lexus moved to the ES 350, which switched to a larger 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FE) to boost horsepower and torque while maintaining the model’s characteristic smoothness. The ES 330 thus sits as the 3.3-liter V6 chapter in the ES lineage, bridging the early ES300 with the later, more powerful iterations.
Summary
The ES 330’s engine is the 3.3-liter V6, specifically the 3MZ-FE, paired with VVT-i and a 5-speed automatic, delivering the refined driving experience Lexus is known for during the mid-2000s. It represents a direct evolution from the ES300 and precedes the more powerful ES 350 in Lexus’ lineup.
What are common problems with the ES 330?
ES330 may experience sudden engine stalls and multiple warning lights activating during highway driving. Sudden stalling with VSC and engine lights often indicates issues with the crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor. These sensors provide critical data for ignition timing and fuel injection.
What engine does a Lexus ES 330 have?
Engine
| Base engine size | 3.3 L |
|---|---|
| Cylinders | V6 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
Is Lexus ES basically a Camry?
No, the Lexus ES is not a Camry, but they share the same platform and some mechanical components because Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota. The ES is a more premium version, featuring a more luxurious interior, better materials, a quieter ride, and a more powerful standard engine.
- Platform and powertrain: The ES and Camry have historically shared the same platform, and many modern versions use a similar platform and powertrains. For example, the Lexus ES 350 and many Toyota Camry models use a similar 3.5L V6 engine.
- Luxury and features: The ES is designed to be a luxury sedan, with a more premium and quiet interior, higher-quality materials, and a softer ride compared to the sportier or more mainstream focus of the Camry.
- Positioning: The Camry is a mass-market sedan, while the ES is a luxury vehicle. This means the ES comes standard with more luxury features and has a higher price point to reflect its premium positioning.
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.
