2009 Lexus ES350
2009 Lexus ES350
Overview
The 2009 Lexus ES350 is generally regarded as a reliable luxury sedan, known for its comfortable ride and refined interior. It typically features a robust V6 engine and a smooth automatic transmission, contributing to a positive ownership experience. While most owners report high satisfaction, like any vehicle, there are specific areas that have seen occasional reports of issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas and their associated costs for owners.
Engine
3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)
Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
- Symptoms: Visible oil on the engine block, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Carbon Buildup (Intake Valves)
- Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idle, decreased fuel efficiency, check engine light.
- Solution: Intake manifold removal and manual cleaning of valves, or walnut blasting.
- Cost: $500 - $1000
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (U660E)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Independent Suspension
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No Major Issues
- Solution: No Major Issues
- Cost: No Major Issues
Electrical
Infotainment System
Touchscreen Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Unresponsive touchscreen, freezing, erratic behavior.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Alternator
Premature Failure
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, electrical system failures.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No Major Issues
- Solution: No Major Issues
- Cost: No Major Issues
Interior
Leather Upholstery
Premature Wear (Driver’s Seat)
- Symptoms: Cracking, tearing, or excessive wear on the driver’s seat bolsters.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of seat covers.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Climate Control System
Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), unusual clicking noises from the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
- Cost: $200 - $500
Summary Verdict
The 2009 Lexus ES350 demonstrates strong overall reliability, consistent with Lexus’s reputation. The powertrain, including the 3.5L V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, is generally robust, though minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and potential carbon buildup on intake valves are noted. The suspension and exterior components are typically trouble-free. Electrical issues, such as infotainment screen glitches and occasional alternator failures, are the most frequently reported concerns. Interior wear on the driver’s seat and climate control blend door actuator failures are also areas to be aware of. Despite these minor points, the ES350 remains a dependable choice for a used luxury sedan.