2016 Lexus ES350

The 2016 Lexus ES350 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and sophisticated design. It comes with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Other engine and transmission options include a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a CVT transmission.

Owners generally appreciate the ES350’s smooth ride, spacious interior, and intuitive technology. However, some have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

• 3.5-liter V6
  • Oil leaks from oil pan gasket: Oil seeps from the gasket between the oil pan and the engine block. Replacing the gasket and resealing the oil pan is required. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $600+
  • Intake manifold failure: The plastic intake manifold may crack, causing a vacuum leak and engine performance issues. Replacing the intake manifold is necessary. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Valve cover gasket leaks: The valve cover gaskets may deteriorate over time, leading to oil leaks. Replacing the valve cover gaskets and resealing the valve covers is required. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $800+
• 2.5-liter 4-cylinder
  • Timing chain tensioner failure: The timing chain tensioner may fail, causing the timing chain to skip and potentially damaging the engine. Replacing the timing chain tensioner and related components is necessary. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Hybrid powertrain
  • Battery pack failure: The battery pack in the hybrid powertrain may malfunction, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and reduced power. Replacing the battery pack is required. Estimated cost to fix: $4,000 - $7,000+

Transmission

• 8-speed automatic
  • Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip or hesitate during gear changes. Rebuilding or replacing the transmission may be necessary. Estimated cost to fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Torque converter shudder: The torque converter may vibrate or shudder, causing a rough ride. Replacing the torque converter is usually needed. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• 6-speed automatic
  • Hesitation during gear shifts: The transmission may hesitate or jerk during gear shifts. Updating the transmission software or replacing the transmission control module may be required. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $1,000+
• CVT
  • Belt slippage: The drive belt in the CVT may slip or break, leading to transmission failure. Replacing the drive belt and related components is required. Estimated cost to fix: $2,500 - $4,000+

Suspension

• Front lower control arm bushings: The bushings in the front lower control arms may wear out prematurely, causing clunking noises and affecting handling. Replacing the bushings is necessary. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $800+
• Rear shock absorbers: The rear shock absorbers may leak or become damaged, resulting in a rough ride and reduced handling. Replacing the shock absorbers is recommended. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $700+

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery may drain excessively when the vehicle is parked, requiring a jump start or replacement. Diagnosing and repairing the electrical system is necessary. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Headlight bulb failure: The headlight bulbs may burn out prematurely. Replacing the headlight bulbs is required. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200+

Exterior

• Roof rack channel bolts: The bolts that secure the roof rack channels may loosen or break, potentially causing the roof rack to become unstable. Replacing the bolts is necessary. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
• Trunk lid misalignment: The trunk lid may not align properly when closed, causing wind noise and water leaks. Adjusting the trunk lid latch and hinges is usually required. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $300+

Interior

• Climate control actuator failure: The climate control actuator may malfunction, leading to issues with temperature control or airflow. Replacing the actuator is required. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
• Infotainment system issues: The infotainment system may experience glitches or freeze, requiring a system reset or software update. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $500+

Summary

Overall, the 2016 Lexus ES350 is a reliable vehicle, but it has experienced some issues. The severity and cost of the issues vary, with some being minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be more serious and expensive. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their decision when purchasing or maintaining this vehicle.