2018 Lexus ES350

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2018 Lexus ES 350, formatted for your website.

The 2018 Lexus ES 350 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reputation for reliability. The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the ES 350 for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and luxurious features. However, some common complaints include a somewhat bland driving experience, a less engaging infotainment system compared to competitors, and some concerns about the long-term durability of certain interior components.

Engine

3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop over time, especially around the valve cover gaskets, timing cover, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, the smell of burning oil, and a low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals. Thoroughly clean the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump area, overheating, engine temperature warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Aisin U881F)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or delayed shifts, especially when cold, or hesitation when accelerating. This can sometimes be more noticeable between specific gears.
  • Solution: A software update might improve shifting. In some cases, a transmission flush or fluid replacement helps. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission overhaul might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (transmission overhaul)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can freeze, become unresponsive, or unexpectedly reboot. This may occur randomly or when using specific features like navigation or Bluetooth.
  • Solution: Check for software updates and install the latest version. If the issue persists, a system reset or replacement of the infotainment unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning sensors (e.g., oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensor) can trigger the check engine light and affect engine performance.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific sensor causing the issue and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can build up inside the headlight housings, causing condensation and potentially affecting visibility.
  • Solution: Some owners drill a small drain hole in the bottom of the housing (at their own risk). Replacement of the headlight assembly is the most reliable solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, particularly in hot climates or with prolonged sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard is the best but most expensive option. Dashboard covers are a less expensive alternative.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ (dashboard replacement). $50-$200 (dashboard cover)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation Display Screen Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The coating on the navigation screen delaminates which can cause the screen to become cloudy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen is the best and most reliable option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Lexus ES 350 is a generally reliable vehicle. The most commonly reported issues involve engine oil leaks, transmission shift quality, infotainment glitches, and interior cosmetic concerns like dashboard cracking and navigation screen delamination. While some fixes can be relatively inexpensive (e.g., sensor replacement, software updates), others, such as engine gasket repairs, headlight replacement, or dashboard replacement, can be costly. The severity of these issues varies, with some being minor annoyances and others impacting the vehicle’s performance and comfort.