2015 Lexus ES350

The 2015 Lexus ES 350 is a popular luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, quiet cabin, and reliability. It comes exclusively with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the ES 350 for its smooth and refined driving experience, luxurious interior, and strong resale value. Common criticisms include its somewhat bland styling and less engaging driving dynamics compared to sportier rivals.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FE V6

• Oil Leaks from Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the front of the engine where the timing cover meets the engine block. You might notice oil stains on the driveway or a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Resealing the timing cover with new gaskets and sealant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from around the valve covers. Visible oil around the edges of the valve covers or a burning oil smell are common symptoms.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin U660E 6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Some owners have reported this is more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and potentially reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM). In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing or Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or restarts unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the head unit in more extreme cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update if available under warranty) - $1500+ (Head Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera displays a black screen, distorted image, or simply fails to activate when the vehicle is put in reverse.
  • Solution: Check the camera wiring harness for damage or loose connections. If the wiring is intact, the camera unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (Dashboard Cover) - $2000+ (Dashboard Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Lexus ES 350 generally enjoys a reputation for reliability, but owners have reported a few common issues. Oil leaks, particularly from the timing cover and valve cover gaskets, are among the more costly engine concerns. The 6-speed automatic transmission can experience harsh shifting. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and backup camera have also been noted. Dashboard cracking can occur. While these issues can be bothersome, they are not necessarily widespread and should be considered in the context of the vehicle’s overall solid reliability. Repair costs range from relatively inexpensive fixes like fluid flushes and gasket replacements to more substantial expenses like timing cover resealing, transmission rebuilds, or head unit replacements.