2011 Lexus ES350

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2011 Lexus ES350, formatted for your website, focusing on specific components and potential repair costs. The 2011 Lexus ES350 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, reliability, and spacious interior. All 2011 ES350s came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and upscale features. Common complaints include the somewhat numb steering feel and a less engaging driving experience compared to sportier rivals, as well as some reported issues as detailed below.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FE V6

• Oil Leak from Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the timing cover area, visible drips on the ground, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing cover gasket or resealing the timing cover with sealant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVTi Oil Line Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Potential for a rubber hose in the Variable Valve Timing intelligent (VVTi) oil line to rupture, leading to oil leakage.
  • Solution: Replace the rubber hose with an updated steel hose.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and coolant flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin U660E 6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, particularly noticeable during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may alleviate the issue. A transmission rebuild or replacement may be required if the issue persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 for fluid flush. $3000 - $5000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shaking or shuddering sensation, especially at lower speeds or during light acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noises from the front suspension when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaking from the rear shock absorbers, bouncy or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen freezing, inaccurate GPS location, or system failing to boot up.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for software update. $1000 - $2000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows moving slowly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture or condensation build-up inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Resealing the headlight housing, or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per headlight for resealing. $400 - $800+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Side Mirror Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The side mirror not folding in or out.
  • Solution: Replace the side mirror assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard material, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement or track repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Lexus ES350 is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has its share of potential issues. Engine-related problems, such as oil leaks and water pump failure, and transmission issues like harsh shifting and torque converter shudder, can be costly to repair. Electrical and interior problems, like navigation system malfunctions and dashboard cracking, are also notable. While most issues are not catastrophic, they can still represent significant repair expenses, so it’s wise to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic.