1991 Lexus ES250

Introduction

The 1991 Lexus ES250 was a mid-size luxury sedan that offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. It was powered by a 2.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, producing 160 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. The ES250 was praised for its smooth ride, quiet interior, and luxurious amenities. However, it was also criticized for its lack of performance and handling.

Engine

2.5L V6

• Oil Leak from Valve Cover Gasket:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the area where the valve cover meets the engine block.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or slips when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar End Link Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or creaking noises from the suspension when turning.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting, or a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the drain (e.g., faulty alternator, parasitic battery drain).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog Light Bulb Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: One or both fog lights stop working.
  • Solution: Replace the burnt-out fog light bulb.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window switches stop working or become intermittent.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per switch
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cruise Control Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The cruise control switch stops working or becomes inaccurate.
  • Solution: Replace the cruise control switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1991 Lexus ES250 is a reliable and well-built vehicle, but it is not without its fair share of issues. The most severe and costly problems include oil leaks, transmission slipping, and alternator failure. However, these issues are not widespread and can be addressed with proper maintenance and repairs. The majority of reported problems are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix.