2004 Lexus ES330

The 2004 Lexus ES330 is a luxury sedan known for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and Toyota-derived reliability. It was only available with one engine option: a 3.3-liter V6 (3MZ-FE) producing 218 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the ES330 for its quiet cabin, comfortable seats, and reputation for longevity. Common dislikes include somewhat bland styling and handling that prioritizes comfort over sportiness.

Engine

3.3L 3MZ-FE V6

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop around the valve cover gaskets. This can lead to a burning oil smell, visible oil drips, and potentially low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Timing Cover Seal)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the timing cover, often noticed as drips near the front of the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing cover seal and resealing the timing cover. This can be a labor-intensive job.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration, and engine movement.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700 (depending on which mounts need replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (U151E)

• Shift Harshness/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting between gears, especially from 2nd to 3rd or 3rd to 4th. Can also manifest as transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush may help if the issue is minor. More likely, a rebuild or replacement of the transmission is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush ($150 - $300), Rebuild ($2000 - $4000), Replacement ($3000 - $5000+)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (depending on whether just the struts/shocks are replaced or also mounts, etc.)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can also cause wandering steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arm bushings or the entire lower control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Bushings only ($200 - $400), Complete lower control arm replacement ($400 - $800 per side)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, and rough running.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty oxygen sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 (depending on the sensor location and shop labor rates)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen goes blank, flickers, or displays incorrect information.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Repair ($200 - $500), Replacement ($500 - $1500+)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly or not at all, grinding noises when operating the window.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses become cloudy or yellowed, reducing headlight output and visibility.
  • Solution: Headlight lens restoration (polishing) or replacement of the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Restoration ($50 - $150), Replacement ($300 - $800+ per headlight)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight. This is a well-documented issue for many vehicles of this era.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive) or a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Cover ($50 - $200), Replacement ($1000 - $2000+)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Lexus ES330 is generally a reliable car, but like any vehicle, it’s prone to certain issues as it ages. Engine oil leaks and suspension wear are common maintenance items. Electrical issues, while less frequent, can be more expensive to address. The dashboard cracking issue is primarily cosmetic but detracts from the car’s luxury feel. The transmission is reliable, however, issues can arise that would likely require replacement or rebuild of the transmission. While some repairs, like valve cover gaskets, are relatively inexpensive, others, like a transmission rebuild or dashboard replacement, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any existing or potential problems.