2019 Lexus ES350

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2019 Lexus ES 350. This model year is part of the seventh generation (XV70) ES, known for its improved handling, updated styling, and comfortable interior. The ES 350 is primarily known for its reliability and luxury. Some owners, however, have reported certain issues, which are detailed below. The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It is paired exclusively with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Some owners find the styling to be too conservative, and others have commented on the somewhat disconnected driving feel compared to sportier sedans.

Category

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FKS V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and oil pan. Symptoms include visible oil on the engine, oil spots under the car, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals is generally required. This may involve removing and reinstalling engine components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, and decreased fuel economy. These can be caused by faulty fuel injectors failing to properly atomize fuel.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty fuel injector(s) is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800, depending on the number of injectors replaced
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin AWF8F 8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation upon acceleration has also been noted.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (for software update) to $3,000+ (for transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Bushings/Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. This is often due to worn control arm bushings or strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings or mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the specific component and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Infotainment System
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or unresponsive touch screen. Bluetooth connectivity issues and navigation problems can also occur.
  • Solution: Software updates are the first step. If problems persist, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) to $1,000+ (for infotainment unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven for a few days. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component.
  • Solution: Identifying and fixing the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve testing individual circuits and components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the draw.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Poor Quality Windshield Glass
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the windshield glass is easily scratched, chipped, or cracked.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck.
  • Solution: Identifying and isolating the source of the rattle, then securing the loose components. This can involve adding foam padding or tightening fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+, depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Lexus ES 350 is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it can experience issues. The most common problems involve oil leaks from the engine, harsh shifting from the transmission, infotainment system glitches, and suspension noises. The severity of these issues can range from minor annoyances to more significant repairs. The cost to fix these problems varies, but some repairs, such as transmission or infotainment system replacements, can be expensive. Overall, the 2019 ES 350 is considered a dependable luxury sedan, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a pre-purchase inspection performed to identify any existing problems.