HOMER350

May be looking to be rid of my 2014 IS350 and pick up a 2010-12 ES350. Active over on that side of the fence in these forums.

I love my IS but I'm becoming more sold on the idea of trading lately. The IS has cause some financial burden as of late and just don't think it's worth it at this time. I used to drive a 1st Gen SC so I'm familiar with the brand and not looking at anything else at this time.

The idea of the ES is lower payments and something I feel better about piling miles on. I'll lose performance of course but be riding comfortable and remain worry free in terms of reliability.

There are SO MANY 5th gen ES 350s on the road in my area it just better helps solidify the option for me.

Hers some questions for you guys/gals if I may.

1. 2GR-FE engine - is this also direct injection? I don't think so, Do you guys have issues with carbon buildup?

2. Many members here +250k miles?

3. $13-15k reasonable price for no Nav under 70k?

4. 1st common issue comes to mind?

5. Anything particular I should look for?

6. Any easy upgrades to LED headlights and DRLs? Without looking too aftermarket preferably.

7. Performance options? It's daily driver and not a big concern but just curious if you guys squeeze another 10-40 hp somehow? Anyone offer tune for this?

8. Am I going to have a hard time finding white with black interior? Ok with grey exterior too. Just want to avoid silver/gold or tan interior.

I'll update as I do more research into this car and have a few more knowledgeable questions. Oy got as far as cruising online reviewing cars for sale. I still have to do maintenance and sell my IS private party if I go this route.

12jimmyjam

Not direct injection. Be happy that you can roll with using regular if you buy one. I’m at 230k miles on mine and it’s overall been pretty reliable. Haven’t even seen a check engine light in that time. One common issues with higher mileage is axle replacement which can be pretty expensive when using oem parts. TPS sensors batteries often die after a while and that will run you around $500 if you choose to replace. Spark plug changes will run you about the same with a mechanic because it is a pita. One of the biggest factors to look at is how you’ll be taking a pretty big step back in terms of modernity with a 5th gen es over your current ride.

07-08 models had some bugs like timing chain covers leaking oil and oil line ruptures. 07s look pretty much exactly the same as the 09s. Styling and Bluetooth technology was updated in 2010-2012. Good luck!

HOMER350

Great feedback thanks. Im not too scared off by stepping back in terms of modern design/tech. I almost prefer to find one with no Nav.

I think this car would have plenty of aftermarket parts available, as mentioned there's just so many on the road I'm curious to look up how many Lexus sold. At least in Southern California theyre everywhere.

I DIY car work as much as my time and back allows.

Meant to open my years to 09-12, partly due to financing options. Think I prefer the 2010 facelift but good to know I may avoid some issue with 09 over 08.

Tootsall

Most parts (and especially service) should be available at lower cost from Toyota dealers since the 5th gen ES is essentially an upscale clone of a Camry.

12jimmyjam

Oh the speakers are terrible in the 5th gen as well. I just added a subwoofer in the trunk and I’m much happier with it now.

HOMER350

Yeah any Lexus is kind of like that. I search parts there sometime if it has to be OEM.
Still, online is always best price for OEM if it can wait a few days.
Maybe the trunk on the ES will be big enough to fit the sub I got and other baby gear I need to tote. My IS trunk space would be eliminated.

rickster9

You mentioned piling on miles. Is the IS not as reliable as the ES?