What is the headroom of the ES 350?

The front seats of the Lexus ES 350 offer about 39.0 inches of headroom, with the rear seats providing roughly 37.0 inches; these figures can drop slightly if a panoramic sunroof is equipped.

Headroom figures for the ES 350

The following measurements come from official Lexus specifications and interior data, reflecting typical configurations. They vary by trim, seat position, and whether a sunroof is installed.

• Front headroom (no sunroof): about 39.0 inches


• Front headroom (panoramic sunroof): about 38.4 inches


• Rear headroom (no sunroof): about 37.0 inches


• Rear headroom (panoramic sunroof): about 36.3 inches

Note: The panoramic sunroof reduces headroom slightly across both rows, and seat position, seat height adjustment, and driver posture can also affect perceived space. If headroom is a priority, test the ES 350 with your typical seating position and clothing layers to confirm comfort.

Notes on measurement and how to check

Use this as a reference, then verify by sitting in the vehicle. Adjust the driver's seat and headrest to your normal driving position, and have a tall passenger sit in the rear to gauge real-world clearance. Official data may vary by exact model year and optional roof package.

Practical implications

Headroom is one aspect of interior comfort. In the ES 350, the combination of upright seating, supportive cushions, and a roomy cabin generally yields a comfortable experience for most adults in both front and rear seats. Tall occupants or those wearing bulky outerwear may notice the impact of a sunroof on ceiling clearance.

Summary

The ES 350 provides substantial headroom for its class, with front headroom around 39.0 inches and rear headroom near 37.0 inches in standard configurations. A panoramic sunroof reduces both front and rear headroom by a small margin. For precise comfort, especially with a specific roof option, testing the seat and head clearance in person is recommended.

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. 

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 IS the headroom of the Lexus ES 350?

37.5 / 37.8 inches
2022 Lexus ES 350 Interior Dimensions
Legroom (front / rear): 42.4 / 39.2 inches. Hip Room (front / rear): 55.0 / 54.3 inches. Shoulder Room (front / rear): 55.9 / 54.3 inches. Headroom (front / rear): 37.5 / 37.8 inches (with moonroof)

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.