2013 Lexus ES300h

The 2013 Lexus ES300h is a hybrid luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and reliability. It features a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 200 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. The ES300h comes exclusively with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). Owners generally appreciate the car’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and excellent fuel economy. Common dislikes include a somewhat uninspired driving experience and a less engaging infotainment system compared to competitors.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights and potentially engine damage if oil levels are not maintained.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels regularly and addressing any leaks. In severe cases, engine repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hybrid Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hybrid battery pack failure can lead to reduced fuel economy, decreased performance, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ECVT

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of struts/shocks can lead to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and noise from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may intermittently freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacement of the navigation unit if the problem persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera may display a blank screen, distorted image, or fail to activate altogether.
  • Solution: Check wiring and connections. If wiring is ok, replace the backup camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Condensation may form inside the headlights.
  • Solution: Remove and clean the headlights and apply sealant to seal them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic High Beam Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic high beam function may become faulty and fail to automatically switch from high to low beam.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight stalk switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2013 Lexus ES300h is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has its potential issues. The most common complaints revolve around excessive oil consumption, hybrid battery failure, and electrical system glitches. Suspension component wear is also a possibility. While some repairs like navigation issues might be relatively inexpensive, hybrid battery replacements can be costly. Overall, the ES300h tends to be a dependable choice, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and inspect the vehicle thoroughly before purchasing.