2021 Lexus ES300h

The 2021 Lexus ES 300h is a luxury hybrid sedan known for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and elegant interior. It boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 215 horsepower. The ES 300h comes exclusively with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). While owners generally praise the car’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and excellent fuel economy, some common complaints revolve around the infotainment system’s cumbersome touchpad interface and a somewhat uninspiring driving experience despite its luxurious aspirations. Other ES models are available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produces 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque.

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, specifically the navigation and media interface, may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly. This can occur randomly or when using specific features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
  • Solution: A software update from the dealership may resolve the issue. In some cases, a replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update is typically covered under warranty. Replacement of the infotainment unit can range from $1,000 - $2,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• 12V Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery, used to start the car and power auxiliary functions, can drain prematurely, especially if the car is not driven frequently. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or a complete inability to start.
  • Solution: Replacing the 12V battery with a new one and ensuring the vehicle is driven regularly or connected to a trickle charger to maintain battery health. Also, checking for parasitic draws can help find the root cause of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Touchpad Interface Difficult to Use
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system is controlled primarily through a touchpad located on the center console. Many owners find this touchpad interface to be imprecise, distracting, and difficult to use while driving, making it hard to navigate menus and select options.
  • Solution: There is no physical fix. The user can try to get used to it or utilize voice control or phone integration options like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto if they are available.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A - Design issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid (A25A-FXS)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

ECVT (Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Harsh Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Drivers have reported harsh acceleration from a stop. This could be due to a lack of experience with the vehicle’s hybrid transmission.
  • Solution: N/A, the car is working as it is intended to. Drivers should be more gentle with the acceleration pedal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2021 Lexus ES 300h generally exhibits good reliability, with most reported issues centered around the infotainment system and its touchpad interface. The 12V battery drain is a potential concern, particularly for owners who do not drive their vehicles regularly. While the infotainment system issues can be frustrating, they are typically addressed through software updates or, in more severe cases, unit replacement. The powertrain and suspension systems appear to be relatively robust, with fewer reported problems. Overall, the severity of the common issues is moderate, and the potential cost of repairs varies depending on the specific problem and whether it is covered under warranty.