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Lexus Es300 Problems

The Lexus ES300 is a mid-size luxury sedan produced from 1992 to 2003, known for its comfortable ride and Toyota-derived reliability. Despite the Lexus reputation, the ES300 experienced notable issues, particularly with vehicle speed control and power train components. The 2002 and 2003 model years showed the highest complaint volumes, coinciding with the end of the third-generation model. Earlier years had more moderate complaint rates.

1,724
Total Complaints
0
Total Recalls
15
Model Years
16
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2003 2002
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2005 2006 2013

Common Problem Categories

Vehicle Speed Control 302
Power Train 244
Engine And Engine Cooling 156
Air Bags 146
Electrical System 144

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2013 16 0 10 0 Good
2006 8 0 4 0 Good
2005 2 0 2 0 Good
2003 294 0 104 12 Avoid
2002 388 0 100 12 Avoid
2001 72 0 28 2 Average
2000 156 0 46 2 Average
1999 70 0 8 0 Average
1998 122 0 30 2 Average
1997 100 0 12 4 Average
1996 88 0 20 8 Average
1995 110 0 24 4 Average
1994 100 0 18 0 Average
1993 106 0 10 8 Average
1992 92 0 8 2 Average

Lexus Es300 Years to Avoid

2002, 2003, 2000, 1998

Best Lexus Es300 Years

2005, 2006, 2013, 1999

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Lexus ES300?

The most frequently reported issues involve vehicle speed control, power train problems, engine and engine cooling concerns, air bags, and electrical system failures.

Which Lexus ES300 years should I avoid?

The 2002 model year leads with 388 complaints, followed by 2003 (294), 2000 (156), and 1998 (122). These later third-generation models experienced significant speed control and transmission issues.

What are the best years for the Lexus ES300?

The 2005 and 2006 model years (technically ES330) and 1999 have the fewest complaints. The 1999 model with 70 complaints represents a good balance of reliability within the ES300 nameplate.

What is the vehicle speed control problem on the Lexus ES300?

The ES300 experienced significant vehicle speed control issues, with 302 related complaints. These problems often involved sudden acceleration concerns and throttle position sensor failures that affected drivability and safety.