2011 Lexus ES350
Introduction
The 2011 Lexus ES350 is a luxury sedan known for its refined ride, spacious interior, and advanced safety features. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, generating 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. Despite its high ratings, the ES350 has experienced some issues that owners should be aware of.
Engine
- 3.5L V6 Engine
- Intake Valve Carbon Buildup: Carbon buildup on the intake valves can cause rough idling, hesitation, and reduced power. Regular cleaning by a mechanic is recommended. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Transmission
- 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Shifting Issues: Some owners have reported hard shifting or delayed shifts. The issue may be related to faulty solenoids or valve bodies. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension:
- No Issues Found
- Front Suspension:
- Strut Mount Bearing Noise: A worn strut mount bearing can produce a clunking or rattling noise when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
Electrical
- Battery:
- Premature Battery Failure: Some batteries have failed prematurely, causing the vehicle to lose power. Replacing the battery is typically required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlights:
- Condensation: Some owners have noticed condensation forming inside the headlights. This is usually not a serious issue and can be fixed by replacing the headlights. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
- Taillights:
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Climate Control:
- Blower Motor Failure: The blower motor may fail, resulting in poor ventilation and heating or cooling issues. Replacing the blower motor is usually necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V504000
- Infotainment System:
- Navigation Malfunctions: Some owners have experienced navigation system malfunctions or screen glitches. Updating the software or replacing the navigation unit may be necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
Overall, the 2011 Lexus ES350 is a reliable and well-built vehicle. However, some common issues to look out for include intake valve carbon buildup, premature battery failure, and potential suspension noise. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are generally not severe and should not significantly impact the vehicle’s overall safety or performance.