What kind of gas does a 1999 Lexus ES300 take?
In the United States, the 1999 Lexus ES300 is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87. Premium gasoline is not required, though higher-octane fuel can be used if you prefer or when the engine experiences knocking under heavy load. The vehicle is compatible with ethanol blends up to 10% (E10).
The ES300 uses the 1MZ-FE V6 engine, and fuel guidance comes from the owner's manual and the fuel-filler label. Below is a concise guide to octane, fuel types, and practical tips for refueling.
Fuel type and octane guidelines
Before listing the recommended options, note the core rules of thumb for this model and similar engines.
- Regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 (the standard U.S. octane rating).
- Premium gasoline (91–93 octane) is not required by the manufacturer but can be used if you want to test for performance differences in certain driving conditions.
- Watch ethanol content: the car is compatible with ethanol-blended fuels up to 10% (E10). Avoid higher-ethanol blends unless specified by Toyota/Lexus for your market.
In practice, most drivers will save money by sticking with regular 87 octane. If you notice knocking, reduced power, or unfamiliar engine behavior, you may temporarily switch to higher-octane fuel and consult the owner's manual or a mechanic.
Where to verify your exact fuel guidance
Always confirm the correct fuel type for your specific vehicle, as regional variations and model year updates can affect recommendations. The quickest checks are the owner's manual and the fuel filler cap label, which typically lists minimum octane and ethanol compatibility.
Summary
The 1999 Lexus ES300 is designed to run reliably on regular unleaded gasoline with an 87-octane rating. Premium gasoline is not required, while higher-octane fuel can be used if desired. The engine supports ethanol blends up to E10. For the most accurate guidance, refer to the owner's manual and the fuel-cap label in your car.
