So after all this is said and done, we can see there is a "limited service campaign" for this flaw on certain Toyota/LEXUS models, but no campaign for the ES350?

Realistically, is there any possible logical reason why an RX350 or AVALON with the identical 3.5l engine could have this flaw while the ES350 does not.

The only obvious difference is where the vehicles are made (ES350-Japan / RX350 Canada)

I've got around 42k on mine, but not looking forward to the potential of my Oil Pressure Hose failing... out of warranty would only be worse !

Ideas, anyone ?

 

NJ...I highly suggest buying the Lexus extended warranty on this car. I am so glad I did.

Any other design flaws on this engine? Don't like the idea of getting stranded again.

Don't have the car back yet, enjoying the 2010 RX loaner...much quieter engine than my ES...improvements must have been made.

 

So I guess this means that the Oil pressure hose wouldn't be covered under the 6 yr/70k powertrain warranty then?

I was kind of on the fence regarding an extended warranty. I read about them somewhat and they show GOLD and PLATINUM. There's different deductables ($50 or $0) and varying mileage/year levels.

What do they generally cost and what is the most cost effective version?

Like I said, don't see how this hose can be an issue with RX350, Avalon, etc with the same engine, but not our cars ? How many of these are actually failing on the Es350?

I'm open to the possibility of buying the warranty, but don't want to spend the money unnecessarily. This is the 2nd trans in my car (original failed at 19k) and this one is only covered until the end of the powertrain warranty.

 

6 yr/100K plat zero deduct cost me about $1250 or so (can't remember exactly). This repair, with the tow, will easily be more than that.

I plan on selling the car around 75K miles, with the warranty...it is transferable with a small fee.

 

Would any of the community out there actually have a specific technical answer on this issue?
It would be greatly appreciated.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !

 

Amen on the Platinum extended warranty! I went for it too, paid about the same $. Any problems - to the Lexus dealer she will go at n/c repair plus loaner.

 

Got my car back this evening. It was the VVT-I "pipe" as they call it. I still have the cold engine noise.

The 2010 RX loaner was so quiet and so Lexus like, it was hard to get back into my ES. I don't know, I gotta fall in love with that car again...I am still pretty upset over this mess, and still have an oil stained asphalt driveway.

Might be doing some car shopping soon

 

Asked my g/f, who has the '08 RX, if she received anything in the mail from Lexus... Replied 'oh yeah, I got a recall letter, I was going to take care of it in the next couple weeks'. Turns out she received LSC 9LH with her 09/07 build RX and I haven't received anything via mail or Lexus Owners Club Acct. for my 08/07 build ES. Interesting...

 

I did receive a letter for my 07 ES350 regarding the replacement of the "VVTI Oil Hose". If anyone is interested let me know and I will scan / post the letter here.

 

Could you scan it? Wonder if it is for Canada models only, 'cause I never got it? Wonder if it has to do with the cold temps? Mine burst in below freezing temps and just after an hour drive in traffic/highway mix.

 

That would be great if you could scan and post it. Thanks.

 

Some of the mess left in my garage last week. Once I noticed the car was leaking and smoking, I rolled it out onto the driveway (without starting it). My driveway is worse.

 

You can see where the oil sprayed up. The dealer did a good job degreasing the engine, but it is far from perfect.

 

I am posting both the original letter and the service record (it says campagin "923"). Hope it hepls!

 

Bluejays - I see you have rough transmission shifts listed on your invoice - did the ECU reflash help? I've had this done but I still get occasional rough shifts... have you investigated the TSB for the torque converter replacement?

I've not received this letter on my (US) '07 and I'm at 50k miles as well. My brother in law (who owns an independent garage) warned me of this oil hose issue a few weeks ago. He mentioned it in terms of his Avalon customers that have had this problem (I'm in southern Michigan, Upper Indiana - about an hour from Chicago).

I think I'll call the dealership to see what they have to say on this subject. In any event, this doesn't seem like a wait and see type repair, sounds like the sooner the better.