2003 Lexus ES300

The 2003 Lexus ES300 is a mid-size luxury sedan powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 210 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission, with a 6-speed manual transmission available as an option. The ES300 is known for its quiet and comfortable ride, as well as its spacious interior and high-quality materials. However, it has also been criticized for its lack of driving excitement and its relatively high price.

Engine

• 3.0L V6

Issue: Timing belt failure

• Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can break, causing the engine to lose power and potentially catastrophically fail. Symptoms include a squealing noise from the engine, difficulty starting, and a loss of power.
• Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-speed automatic

Issue: Transmission slippage or failure

• Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip or fail to engage gears, causing the vehicle to lose power or become stuck in one gear. Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, a whining or grinding noise from the transmission, and a loss of power.
• Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000
• Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension:

Issue: Strut mount failure

• Description/Symptoms: The strut mount can fail, causing the strut to become loose and the vehicle to handle poorly. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the front of the vehicle, a loss of stability, and uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replace the strut mount.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Recalls: None Found

Issue: Sway bar links failure

• Description/Symptoms: The sway bar links can fail, causing the vehicle to handle poorly and make noise. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the front of the vehicle, especially when turning, and a loss of stability.
• Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• No Issues Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

Issue: Dashboard cracking

• Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, especially in areas exposed to the sun. Symptoms include visible cracks in the dashboard, especially on the passenger side.
• Solution: Replace the dashboard.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
• Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Lexus ES300 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. While most of these issues are not particularly severe, they can be costly to repair. Overall, the ES300 is a well-built car that offers a comfortable and luxurious driving experience, but it is important to be aware of the potential problems before buying one.