2018 Lexus ES300h

The 2018 Lexus ES 300h is a popular luxury hybrid sedan known for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and reliability. It comes standard with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 200 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. The ES 300h only came with a CVT transmission. Owners often praise its smooth and quiet operation, luxurious interior, and strong fuel economy. Some common complaints revolve around the somewhat uninspiring driving dynamics and the infotainment system’s learning curve.

Electric Motor

2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid

• Hybrid Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, decreased electric motor assistance, error message related to hybrid system performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT Transmission

• CVT Transmission Jerking/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of jerking or hesitation during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. This is not a widely reported issue, but it has occurred on some vehicles with higher mileage.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update or CVT fluid change may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a clunking or creaking noise coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can be caused by worn sway bar bushings or other suspension components.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn sway bar bushings or other suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can occasionally freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and other functions.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the issue. In some cases, the infotainment system may need to be reset or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera may intermittently fail to display an image or display a distorted image.
  • Solution: Inspection and replacement of the backup camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic High Beam Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic high beam system may not function correctly, either failing to turn on/off as needed or flickering erratically.
  • Solution: Recalibration of the system or replacement of the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattling/Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may rattle or squeak when closed, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the sunroof tracks and seals. In some cases, adjustment or replacement of the sunroof components may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Lexus ES 300h is generally a reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues with the hybrid battery, CVT transmission, suspension, electrical systems, and sunroof. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but most are not considered major or widespread. The most expensive potential repair is the hybrid battery replacement, while smaller issues like sunroof rattles are relatively inexpensive to fix. As with any used vehicle, a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is recommended before purchase.