2020 Lexus ES350

The 2020 Lexus ES 350 is a popular luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, quiet interior, and reputation for reliability. The ES 350 comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the car’s smooth acceleration, luxurious features, and strong resale value. Common complaints revolve around the infotainment system’s complexity, the numb steering feel, and the conservative styling. There are reports of issues with the infotainment display and some electronic components, but overall, the car is considered reliable.

Engine

3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. The amount of oil consumed varies, but can be significant enough to warrant concern. This can lead to low oil levels, potentially causing engine damage if not monitored.
  • Solution: In some cases, dealerships have performed oil consumption tests and, if deemed excessive, may replace piston rings or the entire engine under warranty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: If not under warranty, piston ring replacement could range from $2,000 - $4,000+, and engine replacement could cost $6,000 - $10,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing issues with fuel injectors failing. This may lead to rough idling, misfires, and/or stalling.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to determine which fuel injector has failed and replace the faulty injector.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+, depending on the injector and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (AWR80E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. This can be more noticeable during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update of the transmission control module (TCM) can improve shifting smoothness. In more severe cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update $100 - $200. Valve body replacement $1,000 - $2,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, including the navigation, audio, and climate control interfaces, may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can occur randomly or when using specific features.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacing the entire infotainment unit might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update $0 - $150 (if done by dealership). Infotainment unit replacement $1,500 - $3,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera may fail to display an image, display a distorted image, or intermittently cut out.
  • Solution: Check the camera wiring and connections. If the wiring is intact, the camera unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can build up inside the headlight housing, causing condensation. This can reduce headlight effectiveness and potentially damage the headlight components over time.
  • Solution: Some owners have reported success with removing the headlights and using a hair dryer to dry out the moisture. In some cases, resealing the headlight housing may be necessary. If the condensation is excessive or causing damage, the headlight assembly may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Resealing the headlight ~$100-$300. Headlight assembly replacement $500 - $1000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattles
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises coming from the dashboard, often related to the dashboard materials expanding and contracting with temperature changes.
  • Solution: Locating and isolating the source of the rattle, and then using felt tape or other sound-dampening materials to secure the loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on severity and location of rattle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Lexus ES 350, while generally reliable, does have some common issues. The most concerning relate to excessive oil consumption and potential transmission issues, which could be costly to repair if not under warranty. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and backup camera are also relatively common. While some issues, such as dashboard rattles, are more of a nuisance, others, like engine and transmission problems, can have a significant impact on the ownership experience. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a pre-purchase inspection to assess the vehicle’s condition.